Create the Perfect Reading Nook with Floor Lamps This Autumn

As autumn arrives and the days grow shorter, many of us feel the pull to slow down, get cosy and dive into a good book. Social media is full of “cosy corner” inspiration at the moment, but how do you curate a space that’s not just Instagram-worthy but also genuinely comfortable?

What is a Reading Nook?

To put it simply, a reading nook is a cosy spot for readers to curl up with a good book. With the rise of BookTok, reading is becoming more popular than ever, with many readers choosing to have a designated zone where they proudly display their shelves and turn to to read.

While there is no set layout for these reading spaces, they all serve the same function. Some readers place their reading nook in their bedroom, choosing to place a few plants on a subtle shelf while others choose to go all out and develop full home libraries, complete with comfy couches, candles, complementary textiles and floor to ceiling shelving.

While these curated zones depend entirely on how much space each reader has available, the ultimate goal is the same, to develop a comfortable designated space for sitting down with a book.

Why Lighting Matters in a Reading Space

Interior design experts agree that the perfect reading nook depends on far more than just an armchair, choosing the right lamp is essential for developing the perfect atmosphere. Overhead lighting can create glare or harsh shadows, so in some spaces a table lamp might be the best choice.

However in some homes, there might not be the space for a side table as well as a comfortable chair, so a well placed floor lamp might be a better option for bringing both flexibility and style. Unlike static lighting, modern floor lamps can be moved to suit different reading positions and adjusted as natural daylight fades.

An expert from William Wood said:
"The key to creating a reading corner that actually gets used isn’t just about comfort - it’s about getting the lighting absolutely right. We’ve just introduced a new range of standing floor lamps, perfect for positioning next to the sofa or reading chair."

Choosing the Right Lamp for Comfort and Style

When selecting lighting for your cosy corner, think beyond simple functionality. The right lamp should not only illuminate your book but also add character to the room to enhance the vibe that you have in place. For example:

• Corner floor lamps are ideal for small spaces, slotting neatly behind furniture without cluttering the room.
• Tripod floor lamps can bring a contemporary touch, doubling as both a light source and a decorative lamp.
• For those who love sleek interiors, a contemporary floor lamp is an easy way to blend style with practicality.

Practical Lamps for Everyday Readers

Not every reading nook is about luxury interiors - sometimes, practicality is the priority. A reading lamp should provide enough focused light without straining your eyes. For avid book lovers, a cordless reading lamp offers ultimate flexibility, letting you move it wherever you feel most comfortable.

However, it is important to note that although the soft glow provided by some lamps can provide the perfect amount of ambient light for reading on a phone or a kindle, for readers who prefer a physical book, they may require additional something more substantial to be able to read well into the night.

If you’re short on space, using a floor lamp as a source of light as well as a design element is a smart way to utilise limited space and gives you the best of both worlds.

Create a Cosy Autumn Atmosphere

Of course, lighting is just one part of the equation. To build a truly inviting reading space, add a soft blanket, a side table for a warm drink, and a comfortable chair you’ll want to spend hours in. But without the right lamp, your cosy corner may look beautiful while being impractical to actually read in.

This autumn, let your lighting set the tone. From elegant lamps to functional study lamps, the right choice will transform your home into a literary retreat you’ll never want to leave.