The Trend Coming In 2026 That Proves Bedrooms Are For More Than Sleeping

Bedrooms are often seen as our space to rest, where we shouldn't have a television because it can disrupt our sleep, and where we should turn our phones off before lying down. While there are valid reasons to avoid these distractions when it's time to call it a night, one bedroom trend for 2026 is the reading nook. While books may offer another distraction from sleep, they can also be relaxing and help you wind down after a long day. Reading at night can help distract your brain from intrusive thoughts that might otherwise keep you up, without the harsh light from electronic devices.

One of Zillow's 2026 home trends is the reading nook, which appears in Zillow listings 48% more often than usual. You don't need a dedicated room in your home to create a comfortable reading space, either. People are already setting up "reading zones" in their bedrooms. The bedroom, even a small one, offers ample space to set up a cozy reading area where you can relax with a good book at any time of day, not just before bedtime. The bonus is that there are ways to make a reading nook with limited space, so even the smallest bedroom can accommodate this cozy addition.

A comfortable reading space adds another layer to your bedroom and creates a moodier atmosphere, which appears to be on trend for 2026, according to designer Kathy Kuo. Kuo told Homes & Gardens, "Four-poster bed frames make a statement on their own, and I love the addition of lush drapery to create a truly cocoon-like environment that feels like your own personal retreat." If you have the space for a four-poster bed, it could serve as your reading nook, offering a comfortable, private space of warmth and luxury. This could be the type of reading nook you'll never want to leave.

If you don't have room for a large bed, you can create a reading nook with a comfortable chair in the corner of your bedroom, or turn a window seat into your cozy reading space. Don't have a window seat? Find a long, sturdy bench or storage ottoman to place under a window. For any of these, adding a comfortable pillow, a throw blanket, and a book makes it the ideal reading space. All you need is enough room to relax, some light to read by, and a good book. There are plenty of ways to create a cozy reading nook in your home.