21 best reading chairs for design-loving bookworms
If you ask us, no living space is complete without one of the best reading chairs. Not only will they add colour and texture, they'll help you create a spot you’ll actually want to sink into with a new book or magazine. While there's certainly nothing wrong with a traditional armchair, an on-trend reading chair is a touch more special.
The perfect reading chair starts with comfort, but not the sink-and-disappear kind. Here, good spinal support, well-shaped backrests and supportive cushioning matter more than dramatic silhouettes. High back styles and classic wingback designs make popular reading chairs for a reason – think sturdy armrests and a deep seat that lets you settle in without slouching. For bookworms who like to shift position, a swivel armchair brings flexibility, while a rocking chair suits longer reading sessions where a bit of movement helps you relax.
Materials play an important role, too. Boucle adds softness, chenille feels plush, velvet nods to retro interiors, and a wood frame adds structure and durability. Many of the best reading chairs also come with a footstool or matching ottoman, making it easier to stretch out without committing to a full-on chaise. If you're working with small spaces, there are plenty of accent chair options that offer comfort without overwhelming the room, including compact recliner chair styles with thoughtful ergonomic details.
Style-wise, expect everything from mid-century modern shapes to more contemporary chair design, with options that sit comfortably alongside sofas and other armchairs. A swivel chair works well in open-plan spaces, while a recliner or lounge chair suits a dedicated reading nook or reading corner. So whether you want a comfy reading chair for everyday use or a standout seater for quieter moments of calm, there's a chair that fits both your space and your reading list.
How I tested the best reading chairs
In my search for the best reading chairs to shop right now, I took several key factors into account to make sure every area was covered before putting together this guide.
While testing every single chair in my own home wasn’t feasible, I can personally vouch for a handful that I own and love. For the rest, I assessed everything from size and colour to warranty and overall design, and carried out a deep dive into customer reviews so you don’t have to.
I’ve only featured reading chairs that genuinely stood out during my research, and I’ve outlined the pros and cons of each to help make your decision even easier. The result? A curated edit of the best reading chairs on the market, with something to suit every space and aesthetic.
Why you can trust me
I’ve been a journalist for five years, specialising in lifestyle and interiors. During that time, I’ve written for brands including Good Housekeeping, House Beautiful, Country Living and others, and I’ve spent the past three years on the team at Glamour. My role involves regularly interviewing interior designers, brand founders and industry experts, attending press days, and testing homeware in real-life settings so I can give honest, first-hand recommendations based on long-term use, not just showroom impressions.
Looking for more furniture for your living space? The Glamour interiors team have got you covered with their guides on the most comfortable sofas, the chicest coffee tables, and the best small dining tables.
Ahead, our full edit of the best reading chairs to refresh your nook in 2026. Happy reading!
Teddy Bouclé Lounge Chair Alba
Why we love it: If your living room feels like it’s missing that wow factor, make a beeline for this boucle chair from Westwing. It adds instant design flair without taking up too much floor space, while offering a cosy spot to unwind with a cup of coffee and a good book.
You can pair it with the matching ottoman, but even as a solo item, the wide seat, sculptural silhouette and soft upholstery make it easy to lounge in for hours. If you’re looking to bring a feeling of casual cosiness into your space without sacrificing style, this reading chair is the way to accomplish that.
Specifications:
- Size: W 102 cm x D 89cm.
- Made from: 100% polyester cover, foam padding, solid spruce wood frame.
- Other colours available? Yes, 15.
Pros & ConsPros- Available in 14 different colourways.
- Comfortable, stylish design.
- Matching ottoman availble to purchase seperately.
Cons- High price point.
- Covers are not removable.
Why we love it: If you love the idea of curling up in a comfortable reading chair that feels more like a mini-sofa, this elegant loveseat is the one. Generously sized with a deep seat and plump foam back cushion, it’s designed for total relaxation — whether you’re stretching out solo or squeezing in with someone else.
Upholstered in a choice of 12 matte velvet and chenille fabrics, there’s a shade to suit every space, from classic neutrals to bolder tones like Berry. The warm, oak wooden legs add a subtle, traditional touch, balancing out the modern, streamlined shape. Whether it’s for a cosy reading corner or an inviting addition to a living room, this is the kind of piece that makes every sit-down feel like a little luxury.
Specifications:
- Size: 118.5cm x 90cm x 86cm.
- Made from: Wooden legs, velvet upholstery, and synthetic fibre filling.
- Other colours available? Yes, 11.
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Pros & ConsPros- Reasonable price.
- On-trend colours.
Cons- Regularly out of stock due to high demand.
Why we love it: Designed to adapt with you as needed, this stunning model makes a statement as a roomy, sculptural reading chair — but the real magic is in its versatility. It can be combined with other Noelle units to build a modular sofa, giving you the flexibility to switch up your space as needed.
The curvaceous silhouette, deep seat, and generous cushioning make it as comfortable as it is striking, while the rich velvet upholstery is a nod to the effortless glamour of 1970s interiors. Whether styled solo in a cosy corner or paired with other sections for a more expansive setup, it has that effortlessly luxe, design-led feel— like something straight out of an interior design magazine.
Specifications:
- Size: 58cm x 40cm x 105cm.
- Made from: Engineered hardwood frame, oak feet, cotton and polyester velvet fabric, and high-density foam and fibre filling.
- Other colours available? Yes, 11.
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Pros & ConsPros- Plush and luxurious.
- Modular – great for custom setups.
Cons- Expensive for a single chair.
Pambo Cobalt Green Velvet Lounge Chair
Why we love it: This sculptural number wouldn't look out of place in a modern art gallery, its striking, continuous form creating a stand-out contemporary lounge chair. But it's not just about the aesthetics – thanks to its angled shaping and its plush padding, it is ideal for stretching out and getting deep into that next chapter.
As with all of Oliver Bonas's furniture offerings, this one is meticulously well-made. Upholstered in a bright cobalt blue velvet, it’s got that soft, tactile finish that instantly makes a space feel more inviting. One for design lovers who take their lounging seriously.
Specifications:
- Size: 66cm x 63cm x 95cm.
- Made from: Cotton, polyester, foam, plywood.
- Other colours available? No.
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Pros & ConsPros- Sculptural design.
- Plush padding.
- Statement piece.
Cons- Low, arm-free design not for everyone.
Why we love it: Like all of Dusk's pieces, this generously sized Chesterfield armchair is irresistibly affordable without sacrificing quality or style. Perfect for both classic and contemporary interiors, it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to living spaces. We love the matte velvet upholstery and quilted button detailing.
One happy customer said, “I absolutely love my new DUSK armchair. Delivery was so quick, and the assembly was a breeze. It’s sturdy, stylish, and completes my living area!”
Specifications:
- Size: W 95 x D87 x H76cm.
- Made from: 100% Polyester.
- Other colours available? Yes – 3.
Pros & ConsPros- Matching items available in the same range.
- Three colourways to pick from.
- Classic chesterfield design.
Cons- Nothing of note!
Beatrice Woven Stripe Snuggle Chair
Why we love it: With its soft curves and deep, cushioned seat, the Beatrice is all about comfort with a stylish twist. The woven stripe fabric adds a visual texture, giving it a relaxed, lived-in feel, while the gentle contouring of the arms and back keeps it feeling snug but not bulky.
Available in a range of colours, from soft neutrals to bolder hues, it’s easy to style in any space. The sturdy wooden legs add a classic touch, grounding the design without making it feel too traditional. Perfect for stretching out solo or cosying up with someone else, it’s generously sized without overwhelming a room — ideal for adding a bit of laid-back luxury to a reading corner or living space.
Specifications:
- Size: 89cm x 119cm x 90cm.
- Made from: Cotton and polyester upholstery, plywood and rubberwood frame and legs, and foam and fibre filling.
- Other colours available? Yes, 4.
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Pros & ConsPros- Unique striped design for a statement look.
- Deep seat, ideal for long reading sessions.
Cons- Nothing to see here!
Why we love it: Modern and minimalistic, this is the kind of reading chair that slots effortlessly into a contemporary space, especially one with a palette of soft neutrals and natural textures. The clean lines and subtly curved arms give it a refined yet relaxed feel, while the pitched back provides just the right amount of support for sinking into a good book.
Upholstered in a cotton-blend velvet, it’s got that soft, velvety touch without feeling too heavy or high-maintenance. The deep seat and padded arms add to the comfort factor, making it a chair you’ll want to curl up in for hours – and finally finish that book you've been neglecting. Whether styled with a cosy throw or left to shine on its own, it’s understated, elegant, and designed for everyday lounging.
Specifications:
- Size: 88cm x 80cm x 99cm.
- Made from: Solid wood frame, fibre-wrapped, high-resiliency polyurethane foam cushions.
- Other colours available? No.
Pros & ConsPros- Modern, streamlined shape.
- Well-padded but structured.
Cons- It's pricey.
Why we love it: A perfect fusion of classic and contemporary design, the Hebden armchair brings a striking contrast to any interior. Upholstered in matte velvet in a rich olive green hue, it features elegant button-back detailing, roll-top arms, and natural wood-effect legs.
Designed for both style and comfort, its pocket spring seat ensures lasting durability and support. If you're looking to refresh your entire space, the Hebden range includes an armchair, pouffe, loveseat, and both 2- and 3-seater sofas to complete the look.
Specifications:
- Size: W105 x D90 x H87cm.
- Made from: Solid wood & plywood, and polyester.
- Other colours available? Yes – 3.
Pros & ConsPros- Available in berry, olive green, natural stripe.
- Stylish design with button back detail and roll top arms.
- Available to shop with matching items.
Cons- None here!
Loha Boucle & Rattan Rocking Chair
Why we love it: The design team at Oliver Bonas have truly outdone themselves with this rocking version of the gorgeous Loha Armchair. Available in rich green velvet or soft white bouclé, it’s a far more aesthetic take on your typical rocking chair.
The rattan frame keeps things feeling light and airy, while the curved shape and padded seat bring just the right amount of comfort. The chair works just as well in a cosy reading nook as it does as a statement piece in a living room. Whether you're gently swaying through a gripping page-turner or just taking a moment to unwind, this is a rocker with serious style credentials.
Specifications:
- Size: 72cm x 66cm x 71cm.
- Made from: Cotton and polyester upholstery, rubberwood and rattan frame.
- Other colours available? Yes, green velvet.
Pros & ConsPros- Rocking motion = instant relaxation.
- Lightweight yet sturdy.
Cons- Not the most practical fabric upholstery.
Why we love it: The Morley is classic club chair territory, done properly. With its rounded back, curved arms and generously deep seat, it nails that comfortable, supportive sit that feels instantly familiar. Designed for proper sit-down comfort, it balances structure with ease. The fixed seat and back keep things low maintenance, while the sprung base adds a gentle give that makes settling in feel effortless.
This is not a budget buy, but a very much made-to-order moment. With over 170 fabric and leather options, plus the option to use your own fabric if you're feeling decisive, the Morley feels practically bespoke. Handmade in the UK on a solid hardwood frame, it is built to last. An investment piece, yes, but one that definitely earns its keep.
Specifications:
- Size: W90 x D86 x H78cm.
- Made from: Sustainably sourced hardwood frame, serpentine sprung base, layered foam and fibre seat and back.
- Other colours available? Yes – over 170 fabric and leather options, including the customer’s own fabric.
Pros & ConsPros- Bespoke choices.
- Top quality craftsmanship.
- Lifetime guarantee.
Cons- Investment price.
Why we love it: This wingback chair takes a familiar shape and gives it a fresher feel. The high back and button detailing deliver that classic wingback profile, while the striped upholstery keeps things light, modern and fresh. Slim, Scandi-style legs add to the updated look, making it a neat fit for contemporary living rooms as well as quieter reading corners.
The sit is supportive rather than sink-in, which makes it well-suited to longer stretches with a book. A fixed seat with a foam and fibre wrap holds its shape well, and the tall back offers reassuring support without feeling bulky. The stripe does the heavy lifting visually, stopping the design from leaning too traditional and helping it feel current. This affordable reading chair is a smart option that balances structure, comfort and style.
Specifications:
- Size: W73 x D96 x H107cm.
Seat height: 46cm; seat depth: 58cm. - Made from: 100% polyester upholstery, foam and fibre wrap seat filling, wooden legs.
- Other colours available? Only this one in the stripe. Other block colours available.
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Pros & ConsPros- Classic shape.
- Supportive back.
- Affordable.
Cons- Limited colour options (in the stripe).
- Size: W73 x D96 x H107cm.
Why we love it: This chair delivers that unmistakable club-chair comfort without feeling overly showy. The softly rolled arms and relaxed recline reference classic French designs, but the overall look stays clean and unfussy, making it easy to live with. The tan pull-up leather has a supple, lived-in quality from day one and is designed to age beautifully, picking up even more character as time goes on.
The sit feels considered and reassuring. A fully sprung back provides steady support, while the feather and foam-filled cushions soften things just enough to feel indulgent without losing shape. Handmade in Long Eaton, Derbyshire, it boasts a solid, well-crafted feel that makes it a smart long-term addition to a living room or reading corner. Understated, comfortable and quietly confident, this is a chair that settles in nicely and only improves with use.
Specifications:
- Size: W84 x D78 x H70cm.
Seat height: 46cm; internal seat depth: 52cm. - Made from: Solid beech and birch hardwood frame, feather and foam seat cushions, pull-up tan leather upholstery, black oak legs.
- Other colours available? Yes – additional leather options are available.
Pros & ConsPros- Top quality leather.
- Comfy back support.
Cons- Narrower seat than some.
- Size: W84 x D78 x H70cm.
Habitat Dawson Fabric Swivel Chair
Why we love it: This deep seated swivel chair brings a playful hit of personality. The shape leans bold and sculptural, while the soft, neutral upholstery makes it far easier to live with. Wide arms and a softly padded seat make it properly inviting, while the swivel base adds a practical, modern edge that suits relaxed living rooms and home offices alike.
The Dawson is designed for casual comfort with a fixed foam seat that feels supportive and keeps its shape. The compact footprint works well in smaller spaces, too, and the wipe-clean finish makes it refreshingly low-fuss. Contemporary, comfortable and a little bit fun, we'd happily binge a whole book.
Specifications:
- Size: W78.5 x D89 x H80cm.
Seat height: 41cm; seat depth: 58cm. - Made from: 100% polyester micro-cord upholstery, foam-filled fixed seat, metal swivel base.
- Other colours available? Yes – additional colourways are available within the Dawson collection.
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Pros & ConsPros- Playful shape.
- Swivel base.
- Super comfy.
Cons- Nothing to see here!
- Size: W78.5 x D89 x H80cm.
Why we love it: With its relaxed stripes and sink-in cushions, this traditional style armchair has an effortless, holiday-at-home feel. The soft, linen-blend upholstery is light and breathable, while the classic stripe keeps things looking fresh and timeless.
A deep seat and generously padded arms make it the perfect spot to settle in with a book, and the solid wood feet give it a sturdy but elegant finish. It’s roomy without being oversized, making it just as suited to a reading nook as it is to a cosy corner of the living room. Whether you’re planning a long afternoon of reading or just stealing a quiet moment, this armchair invites you to slow down. Bliss.
Specifications:
- Size: 96cm x 87cm x 86cm.
- Made from: Solid wood, plywood, polyester.
- Other colours available? No.
Pros & ConsPros- Classic striped design.
- Supportive yet comfy.
Cons- More structured than squishy.
- Could use a footstool for extra comfort.
Why we love it: The standout feature of this sofa is its modular design, allowing for endless configurations to perfectly fit your living space. The ultra-soft high-back cushions provide upper-body support, so you can sit back, relax, and unwind in complete comfort.
If you’re looking to overhaul your entire living room setup or have just moved into a new, unfurnished place, the range has matching pieces to suit every need - from a corner sofa to a footstool, as well as 2- and 3-seater sofas. Dreamy.
Specifications:
- Size: W152 x W111 x H92cm.
- Made from: Legs: Hidden black plastic legs; seat interior: foam interior wrapped in feather quilting; frame: solid wooden frame.
- Other colours available? Yes – 2.
Pros & ConsPros- Free fabric swatches before you commit.
- Available in two colours.
- Contemporary modular design.
Cons- High price point.
Why we love it: The Penn chair is all about effortless comfort with a tailored twist. Its sleek frame is softened by plush, pillow-like shaping in the armrests and backrest, giving it that perfect balance of structure and sink-in cosiness. Upholstered in a smooth, versatile fabric, it’s got a refined but inviting feel — ideal for a reading nook that doesn’t skimp on style.
The deep seat and gently angled back make it a dream for long reading sessions, while the slim, tapered wooden legs keep the design feeling light and elegant. Whether you're curling up with a novel or just stealing a quiet moment to flick through a magazine, this is the kind of chair that makes switching off feel effortless.
Specifications:
- Size: 80cm x 75cm x 78cm.
- Made from: Solid pine and engineered wood, metal, polyester.
- Other colours available? Yes, dark olive, slate.
Pros & ConsPros- Deep and supportive – great for posture.
- Timeless design that works anywhere.
Cons- Can feel quite upright.
The Edie Sand and Black Stripe Armchair
Why we love it: The Edie is one of those chairs that just makes a space feel more fun. The bold, directional black-and-sand stripes give it a bit of a vintage, Parisian café vibe, but the modern shape keeps it feeling fresh.
It’s got a deep seat and a gently angled back —comfy enough for a long reading session without swallowing you whole. The slim black legs stop it from feeling too heavy, making it easy to style in a cosy nook or as a statement piece in a living room. It's the kind of chair that adds personality without trying too hard —just grab a book and settle in.
Specifications:
- Size: 83cm x 75cm x 84cm.
- Made from: Polyester upholstery, metal legs.
- Other colours available? No.
Pros & ConsPros- Striking striped upholstery.
- Comfortable yet stylish.
Cons- Seat could be deeper for lounging.
Nimbus Boucle Upholstered Accent Chair
Why we love it: Soft, sculptural, and seriously inviting, this bouclé accent chair is the perfect blend of style and comfort. The textured upholstery gives it a cosy, tactile feel, while the cocooning back and armrests are as squishy and cosy as they look.
As a reading chair, it's ideal for curling up in. The neutral shade keeps it versatile, working just as well in a minimalist space as it does layered with throws and cushions. Whether you’re diving into a novel or just taking five with a coffee, this one promises to make any corner feel like the best seat in the house.
Specifications:
- Size: 64cm x 125cm x 196cm.
- Made from: Polyester boucle, foam.
- Other colours available? No.
Pros & ConsPros- Trendy bouclé fabric.
- Compact yet comfy.
Cons- Light colour is prone to stains.
Why we love it: Custom-made to your exact requirements, this gorgeous Swoon armchair can be upholstered in over eighty different high-quality fabrics and fitted with your choice of light or dark tapered wood legs. Whether you go for plush velvet, soft linen, or something more textured, the design stays effortlessly stylish with its clean lines and subtly curved arms.
Comfort is a priority too — the deep seat cushion is made with foam and polyfibre for the perfect balance of support and softness, while the back and scatter cushions are filled with loose fibre, so you can properly sink in. The mid-century-inspired shape gives it that relaxed yet refined feel, making it just as at home in a reading nook as it is in a living room setup.
Specifications:
- Size: 85cm x 83cm x 85cm.
- Made from: Pine and birch frame, easy velvet upholstery, foam and polyfibre filling.
- Other colours available? Yes — over 80.
Pros & ConsPros- Chic and modern with clean lines.
- Good balance of firm and plush.
Cons- Seat depth might not suit everyone.
Why we love it: With its rustic, solid oak frame and old-school silhouette, this accent chair strikes the perfect balance between statement piece and laid-back lounging. The chunky wooden frame gives it a handcrafted feel, while the generously padded seat and back cushions — true to Loaf’s signature squishiness — make it the kind of chair you’ll want to sink into for hours.
The best part? You’ve got a whopping 150 different fabrics to choose from, ranging from soft linens to rich velvets, so you can tailor it to your space. And if you ever fancy a change, the cushion covers can be bought separately, making it easy to switch up the look without replacing the whole chair. Whether you’re after a cosy reading spot or just somewhere to put your feet up, this one’s got comfort covered.
Specifications:
- Size: 83cm x 78cm x 90cm.
- Made from: Solid oak frame, foam core and fibre wrap cushions, and linen, cotton, and viscose blend cushion covers.
- Other colours available? Yes — 149.
Pros & ConsPros- Sink-in comfort – no rigid edges.
- Super soft, relaxed style.
Cons- Not ideal if you prefer a structured seat.
Why we love it: Sometimes, you just can’t beat an elegant wingback armchair. With its tall, buttoned back and classic silhouette, this one's positively made for fireside reading sessions and quiet corners.
The high back and deep seat make it as comfortable as it is stylish, while the slim, tapered legs stop it from feeling too traditional. Best of all, you can have it upholstered in just about any colour or fabric you like — whether you’re after a soft linen, a rich velvet, or something completely unique to your space. Tucked into a cosy library nook or taking pride of place in a living room, it’s the kind of wing chair that always feels like home.
Specifications:
- Size: 103cm x 69cm x 89cm.
- Made from: Beech and pine frame, oak legs, foam and polyfibre filling, and easy velvet upholstery.
- Other colours available? Yes — over 80.
Pros & ConsPros- Understated elegance.
- Wide, supportive seat and tall backrest.
Cons- Could be softer for long lounging.
Reading chair FAQs
What makes a good chair for reading?
As tempting as it is to simply pick the chair that best matches the aesthetic of your space — and the amount of space you have to work with — there are definitely a few other key features that deserve some thinking about. Clearly, comfort is one of the biggest priorities when picking a reading chair – so it's definitely worth going for something with proper cushioning, and a high back that provides ample support to your neck and spine. Aside from this, think about how you specifically like to sit.
For example, recliner chairs are great if you like to have your feet up when you lounge, whereas larger snuggle chairs or loveseats might be more your thing if you're keen to curl up and cuddle. Other options like rocking chairs and swivel chairs are also popular picks — as well as the classic traditional armchair, of course.
Fabrics also deserve proper consideration, as you want a chair that's been upholstered in a breathable material if it's a seat you're intending to sit on for hours at a time. Similarly, is this a chair that's likely to be used by little ones? Also, do you like the sound of having a glass of wine in hand while you relax? If you answered yes to either of these questions, it might be worth seeking out chairs made with stain-resistant fabrics, or removable and machine-washable covers.
How can I make a reading chair more comfortable?
Fell for the trap of prioritising style over finding a seat that's actually comfortable? We've all been there. Or perhaps it's not quite as comfy as the description online led you to believe? Either way, there are a few things you can do to make your seat better suited to long periods of sitting.
If the seat itself is the issue, an extra seat cushion could provide some additional padding and comfort — whereas a lumbar support cushion will help provide additional back support. Other than this, a footrest could also make a real difference — especially if your feet don't touch the floor when sitting in your reading chair.
Which reading chair styles work best in small spaces?
When space is limited, scale and shape matter more than anything else. A compact armchair with a high back can offer proper back support without taking over the room, while slimmer armrests help keep the footprint manageable. Swivel chair designs are especially useful in small spaces, as they add flexibility without needing extra clearance to pull the chair in and out. An accent chair with a deep seat but narrower proportions can also work well, giving you comfort without visual bulk. If you are fitting a reading corner into a living room, look for chairs with a lighter frame or visible wood frame to keep things feeling open rather than crowded.
Do swivel and recliner chairs actually work for reading?
Yes, as long as the design prioritises support rather than novelty. A good swivel chair allows you to shift position easily, which helps during longer reading sessions, particularly in open-plan living room layouts. Swivel armchair styles also suit shared spaces, letting the chair turn between conversation and solo reading. Recliner and recliner chair designs can work well too, especially for evening reading, but look for controlled movement and a supportive backrest rather than an over-soft seat. The best options feel considered and ergonomic, offering comfort without tipping into something better suited to napping than reading.
