Reese Witherspoon upgraded a small corner into a cozy reading nook – designers say you can replicate her 'ultimate little escape' (from $18)

'It’s all about comfort, calm, and just the right amount of cozy': You only need three things to follow Reese's example – and it's not only for book lovers

reese withersppon on a white background
(Image credit: Rodin Eckenroth/FilmMagic via Getty Images)

Anyone who follows Reese Witherspoon will know she's a proud bookworm – she founded her eponymous book club, after all. If anyone were to set the blueprint for the perfect reading nook, we'd expect it to be her, and a look at her Instagram confirms what we'd already suspected.

The Legally Blonde actress took to the app to share a recent book recommendation (The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan, for anyone interested) and, in doing so, offered a glimpse into the beautiful reading nook tucked inside the corner of her living space.

Reese's corner has an East Hampton-style aesthetic, starting with her striped blue and cream accent chair, which pairs beautifully with the neutral bookcase. The bookcase (which we know isn't the only place where Reese keeps her books) is color-coordinated, with a palette of deep red, green, brown, and black titles alongside vintage china ornaments.

Lastly, she added a floor lamp, perfectly positioned to bring just the right amount of light for reading.

Get the look

While we are sure that Reese's living space is far from compact, you can still replicate the look in a small living room (or in the corner of your bedroom or home office, if you'd prefer). To start, Lisa Hensby, the founder of Hensby Homes, recommends finding the perfect chair.

'I love a good reading nook – it’s the ultimate little escape within your own home. Whether it's a spot to wind down after a busy day or your weekend go-to, it’s all about comfort, calm, and just the right amount of cozy,' she says.

'Comfy seating is non-negotiable. You want something you can properly relax into. Think a deep armchair with generous arms or a built-in window seat with a big, squishy cushion. Add a pouffe or footstool if you can – it makes all the difference for that put-your-feet-up feeling.'

Next, finding the right task lighting is essential. 'A floor lamp with an adjustable head is ideal so that the light falls exactly where you need it. Even better if it’s dimmable so you can adjust the mood as the day winds down. If you’re near a window, that's a bonus.'

When it comes to accessories, books are an inevitable (and essential) starting point. However, you can style your bookshelves with more than hardbacks, just as Reese has done.

'A shelf with your current reads, a softly scented candle (nothing too overpowering – I love something woody or herbal), and a plant or two to bring life into the space,' Lisa says. 'If you can, tuck it near a window – natural light during the day, and it makes the space feel so much more inviting.'


Megan Slack
Head of Celebrity Style News

Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens, where she leads the celebrity/ news team. She has a history in interior design, travel, and news journalism, having lived and worked in New York, Paris, and, currently, London. Megan has bylines in Livingetc, The Telegraph, and IRK Magazine, and has interviewed the likes of Drew Barrymore, Ayesha Curry, Michelle Keegan, and Tan France, among others. She lives in a London apartment with her antique typewriter and an eclectic espresso cup collection, and dreams of a Kelly Wearstler-designed home.

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