New research highlights the rise of reading nooks as a key interior design trend, particularly among younger generations.
Recently, reading nooks have emerged as a popular interior trend, captivating design enthusiasts, homeowners, and social media influencers alike. Much like the surge in home offices, the demand for cosy spaces to curl up with a good book is rapidly increasing. Luxury bedroom retailer Feather & Black commissioned a study via OnePoll to explore the appeal of reading nooks and how books influence interior design.
The Appeal of Books in Home Design
A survey of 2,000 respondents revealed that one in ten use books for decorative and aesthetic purposes, a figure that climbs to 18% among those aged 25-34 and 14% among 18-24-year-olds. This trend appears to be driven by the growing interest in reading among younger generations, the rising “bookshelf wealth” trend, and the expanding ‘BookTok’ communities that celebrate literature.
The findings also show that nearly one in ten (8%) respondents plan to invest in creating a reading nook soon. Younger generations are particularly drawn to this trend, with 24% of those aged 24-34 and 16% of 18-24-year-olds intending to set up their own reading spaces.
Why People Incorporate Literature into Design
When asked about their motivations for using literature in interior design, 31% of respondents indicated they use books to reflect their personality and taste. Furthermore, 28% believe that books add essential texture and colour to a room, while 14% feel that displaying books enhances their intelligence. Interestingly, 10% of participants admitted to using books to align with the growing fascination with old-money aesthetics, enhancing their home decor.
The Best Spots to Read
When it comes to the ideal location for reading, 62% of respondents stated they prefer reading in bed, with 76% of Gen Z (18-24-year-olds) indulging in this habit. The sofa (44%) ranks as the second most popular spot for reading, while 29% of people enjoy curling up in a cosy chair.
Key Findings from the Study
- A comfortable chair (69%) was identified as the essential element for a perfect reading nook, followed by a relaxing ambience (55%) and natural light (54%). Other notable elements include a tech-free environment (16%) and cosy decor (15%).
- 32% of 18-24-year-olds and 41% of 25-34-year-olds reported reading more in the past year, compared to 30% of those aged 35-44, 19% aged 45-54, and 21% aged 55 and over.
- Reasons for reading include entertainment (61%), escapism (59%), and mental unwinding (57%), along with physical relaxation (47%) and enhancing bedtime routines (36%).
- The most popular genre among readers is mystery (39%), followed closely by detective (36%), history (25%), romance (25%), and biography (24%).
- Only 42% of people finish every book they start, and 36% admit to finishing books they do not enjoy.
- Notably, 26% of the population reads over 20 books a year, while 21% have more than 20 unread books at home.
- Wales stands out as a reading haven, with Cardiff leading the list of cities with the most avid readers.
The Enduring Allure of Physical Books
Despite living in a digital age, the preference for physical books remains strong, with 76% of respondents favouring them over e-books (15%). Interestingly, 84% of 18-24-year-olds prefer reading physical books, approximately 10% more than older generations. The tactile experience of holding a book (77%), along with easier focus (55%) and deeper immersion (46%), are cited as primary reasons for this preference.
Steve Payne, luxury bedroom expert at Feather & Black, remarked, “It’s refreshing to see that reading is coming back into fashion, especially among younger generations. The results also highlight that beds and bedrooms are increasingly serving as reading nooks, underscoring the importance of creating a tranquil sanctuary where one can enjoy cosy evenings with a favourite book.”
