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


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.
A post shared by Reese Witherspoon (@reesewitherspoon)
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Get the look
This blue and white jar brings a touch of elegance to any bookshelf or cabinet. Its classic shape and intricate floral pattern take inspiration from Ming dynasty porcelain, creating a harmonious balance that complements any reading nook.
Striped upholstery
This statement accent chair offers a perfect seating solution for any reading nook, living space or bedroom. We love its coastal-style blue and white stripe, which we're almost sure would be Reese Witherspoon approved.
The pillow, which is designed to excite, offers intricate mastery and eye-pleasing designs to any chair or sofa. With a well-toned coloring and textured striped design we love how it maintains that coastal style without being too overpowering.
This beautiful, overly rounded jar is hand molded and will be the perfect display piece on its own or as a pair for an existing vignette or bookshelf. We love its hand-painted bird and blossom design, in Reese-approved blue and white.
With an antique burnished brass body, this floor lamp is both intricate and classic. Its pleated silk shade top (like Reese's) and the swing arm are full of traditional details that bring character to your reading nook.
Made from porcelain china, this plate displays three figures in a garden, with an intricate floral border detail. It's the perfect addition to your bookshelves, especially for a Reese-inspired 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.'
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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 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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