Create Your Own Outdoor Reading Nook With These Ideas
Kick back and curl up.
Combining fresh air, sunlight, and a good book, an outdoor reading nook is exactly where you'll want to spend the warmer months. Wondering how to create one? We've put together a list of ways you can design your own outdoor reading nook. From cozy seating to comfortable accents, find easy outdoor reading nook ideas below.
Essential Outdoor Reading Nook Items Checklist:
- Comfortable, weather-resistant seating
- Shade solution (umbrella, canopy, or built-in cover)
- Outdoor pillows for back support
- Weather-resistant rug
- Side table or garden stool for drinks and books
1. Start With Comfortable Seating
Cozy seating is the key to creating an outdoor reading nook. Whether you pick a plush club chair or a chaise for stretching out on, look for outdoor seating that has a durable, weather-resistant frame and a comfortably cushioned seat.
Tip!
Need help finding the right material for your outdoor furniture? Read our Outdoor Furniture Materials Guide for an in-depth breakdown on the most common options.
2. Make Room for Two
If you're designing your outdoor reading nook for two, a matching patio set is a great place to start. Most two-person sets include two chairs and a matching table, which makes it easy to create a coordinated look.
A patio umbrella can help keep your outdoor reading nook cool, and it’ll also help prevent a harsh glare on your book or e-reader. Choose one with adjustability (like tilt features) to account for the sun's path.
A porch swing is a classic spot to tackle your reading list. The gentle swaying motion and close proximity to the indoors make it ideal for a quick break or an entire afternoon. Top your porch swing with a throw pillow for extra comfort and lumbar support.
Tip!
Find tips on choosing the right porch swing with our guide Porch Swings: A Comprehensive Guide to These Amazing Outdoor Seats.
5. Relax on a Hammock
Hammocks provide ample support for the spine and the soft swinging motion ups relaxation, so they can be well-suited for outdoor reading nook ideas. Plus, many hammocks come with an easy-to-assemble stand – so no need to worry about finding trees that are the right distance apart.
Not quite indoors, not quite outdoors, a screened-in porch can be the perfect spot to set up a reading nook. Outfit your space with a pair of comfortable chairs or a petite loveseat to make room for reading, and add a matching coffee table for kicking your feet up or keeping your cup of coffee nearby.
Tip!
Check out our Screened-In Porch Ideas for more inspiration!
7. Convert a Shed into a Sheltered Reading Nook
Convert your garden shed to a cozy reading shed so you can read outdoors, come rain or shine. Channel your spring cleaning into clearing out that old garden shed that doesn’t get much use. Add a comfortable outdoor rug, a side table, and some durable outdoor seating. Don’t forget some string lights and a floor or table lamp for all the ambience and reading light you could desire.
With an ergonomic shape and airy design, a hanging egg chair is an excellent option for outdoor reading nook ideas. The nest-like silhouette is great for reading and relaxing, while the plush cushions keep you comfortable. They come in both ceiling-mounted and freestanding options to suit your outdoor space.
Adding greenery is an easy way to make your space feel brighter. Whether you're working with a patio or balcony, potted plants can bring an organic feel to your outdoor reading nook. For small outdoor areas, wall-mounted or vertical planters can help you achieve this look while saving space.
Not all patio seating comes with thick all-weather cushions, so outdoor pillows can make your setup more comfortable while reading. Tuck an outdoor throw pillow for a cozy backrest, or slide a lumbar pillow in for added lower back support. You can also top your seating with an outdoor-approved throw blanket for chillier days.
An outdoor rug can anchor the space and create a visual separation between your outdoor reading nook and the rest of your patio, porch, or garden. It can also add softness underfoot, which is great if you like to kick your shoes off while you're reading.
Make your outdoor reading nook more versatile with a patio ottoman or two. Not only are they great for kicking your feet up while you read, they can also be used for extra seating in case you're entertaining – especially if it's your turn to host book club.
Tip!
Would you rather read indoors? Check out our guide 17 Incredibly Cozy Reading Nook Ideas to find inspo.
