12 Best Reading Chairs to Stylishly Unwind

Sometimes, the best way to unwind doesn’t just stop with a good book, but the perfect armchair. We understand the importance of finding the perfect reading chair, where every page turn is accompanied by the embrace of comfort and style.

If you’re looking to elevate your reading experience to new heights, look no further! We’ve curated a list of the 12 best reading chairs from our armchair range so you can find your perfect reading nook companion!

12 best reading chairs 

The best for functional elegance

Designed with comfort in mind, the Dean Recliner Armchair is available in both leather and performance fabric options, catering to diverse preferences and lifestyles. 

Upholstered in supple leather or durable performance fabric, this chair exudes sophistication and durability, making it a versatile addition to any living space.

With its distinctively mid-century modern style, the Dean Recliner Armchair features spindle wooden legs in a dark stain that adds a touch of vintage charm to its aesthetic. The high backrest provides full-body support, ensuring maximum comfort whether you're reading, watching TV, or simply lounging.

The Dean Recliner Armchairs create a functional yet stylish living space. 

What sets the Dean Recliner Chair apart is its manual push-back mechanism, which allows you to recline at three adjustable angles for a personalised lounging experience. The manual mechanism offers a seamless and intuitive reclining experience without the need for buttons or levers, making it discreet and easy to operate.

The best modern statement

If you’re looking to take your reading corner to new heights, the unique Paloma Bouclé Armchair is the perfect piece. 

Its modern contemporary design, with a touch of Parisian charm, adds an air of elegance to any space. From its curved back to its chunky legs, every angle of this chair is a work of art, seamlessly blending form and function.

A set of Paloma Bouclé Armchairs in Snow creates a cosy space in front of the fireplace in @raffaela.sofia’s home. 

The plush bouclé fabric upholstery adds a trendy touch to the chair, while also offering softness and warmth that invites you to sink in and relax.

Whether placed in a cosy corner in your bedroom or as a focal point in a living room, this chair commands attention and adds a touch of sophistication to any space. Cutouts in the design further enhance its sculptural appeal, creating a sense of lightness and openness that complements modern interiors beautifully.

The best all-purpose comfort

The Arden Performance Fabric Swivel Armchair is upholstered in performance fabric, ensuring durability and easy maintenance. The performance fabric not only withstands everyday wear and tear but also provides a soft and inviting texture that enhances the overall comfort of the chair. 

For those seeking a touch of luxury, the armchair is also available in a full leather variation featuring top grain wax leather, offering a sumptuous seating experience that exudes sophistication.

The Arden Performance Fabric Swivel Armchair will be a stunning addition to your home. 

Adding to its versatility is the 360-degree swivel function, allowing you to pivot and find your ideal seating position effortlessly. Whether you're engaging in conversation with guests or simply enjoying the view from different angles, the swivel function ensures that you can always stay connected to your surroundings without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

The best fuss-free swivel 

Another swivel armchair that makes the list is the Amber Performance Fabric Swivel Armchair. This chair offers a stylish and functional addition to any reading nook, ensuring a cosy and enjoyable experience with every page turn.

Seems like @lyndseydickerson’s cat got to the Amber Swivel Armchair in Performance Smoke Grey first!

Upholstered in performance fabric in a chic grey hue, the Amber Swivel Armchair combines durability with aesthetic appeal. The performance fabric is designed to withstand everyday wear and tear and makes cleaning a breeze.

With a curved backrest and rounded seats, the armchair cradles your body in comfortable bliss. The 360° swivel function adds an element of versatility, allowing you to effortlessly pivot and find your perfect reading position without ever having to leave the comfort of your chair.

Thanks to its versatile design and colour, Amber complements a wide range of interior styles and decor preferences. Whether your home boasts a modern, minimalist aesthetic or leans towards a more traditional look, this chair seamlessly integrates into various design schemes without clashing or overpowering other elements in the space.

The best cosy retreat

Crafted to mimic the look and feel of lambswool, the fabric of the Ingrid Sherpa Chair adds a touch of texture and warmth to your reading nook. Its plushness invites you to sink in and get comfortable, while its softness envelops you in a cocoon of relaxation. 

The Ingrid Sherpa Chairs in Teddy White in @sarahwisted’s home look like the perfect spot to unwind.

The armchair boasts an iconic design silhouette that adds a touch of sophistication to any space. The curved back and seats provide optimal support and comfort; coupled with its generous seating space of 75 cm, you’re well on your way to a literary escape.

Adding to its allure are the chunky trapezoid slab legs with a beautiful whitewash finish. These legs not only provide sturdy support but also add a touch of rustic charm to the chair, creating a striking visual contrast against the plush Sherpa upholstery.

The best contemporary comfort

The Owen Armchair is a contemporary masterpiece that combines sleek design with unparalleled comfort, making it the perfect companion for leisurely reading sessions.

The Owen Armchair features chunky cushions that provide the perfect lounging experience. 

Thick chunky fibre-filled cushions envelop you in luxurious softness, providing a plush seating experience that's perfect for unwinding with your favourite book. Whether you prefer to sit upright or sink into relaxation, this armchair offers the perfect balance of support and comfort.

What sets the Owen Armchair apart is its customisable leg options. Choose between walnut or natural legs to suit your style and complement your existing decor. 

Moreover, the removable seat, back, and side cushions and covers make maintenance a breeze. Simply unzip and remove the covers for easy cleaning, ensuring that your reading nook remains fresh and inviting.

The best vintage charm

Crafted with a wooden frame design adorned with brass leg caps, the Desmond Leather Armchair exudes sophistication and charm. The juxtaposition of rich leather upholstery against the warmth of the wood and the gleam of brass accents adds a touch of luxury to any space, instantly elevating the ambiance of your reading nook.

@benjiplant creates a cosy space with the Desmond Leather Armchair and greenery.  

Upholstered in top grain leather, this adds to the chair’s aesthetic appeal but also enhances the overall comfort. The slightly curved backrest contours against your back, providing adequate support during long reading sessions. 

If you’re not into leather, this armchair also comes in a fabric alternative, which still gives you all the mid-century modern charm.

The best nostalgic comfort

Step into the realm of mid-century modern nostalgia with the Wayne Armchair. This iconic piece marries timeless design with unparalleled comfort, making it the perfect companion for leisurely reading sessions.

@halfway_wholeistic is ready to lounge on the Wayne Armchair and get to reading! Also pictured: The Dawson Sofa and Mori Coffee Table. 

At first glance, the Wayne Armchair captivates with its spindle frame design. The visible solid wood frame, adorned with a rich walnut finish, exudes warmth and sophistication, adding a touch of old-world charm to any space.

Sink into the luxuriously soft cushions filled with foam and fibre and feel the stresses of the day melt away as you lose yourself in the pages of your favourite book. Furthermore, the removable seat cushions and covers make this armchair easy to maintain.

The best trendy lounge

The Sacha Performance Bouclé Armchair boasts a unique low-slung silhouette that is both eye-catching and on-trend. This armchair is a redesign of the iconic Pierre Paulin Groovy Chair, creating a statement in any room. 

@brownstoneboys created the perfect reading space with two Sacha Performance Bouclé Armchairs.

Its curves, angles, and cutouts create a visually dynamic design that adds instant flair to any space. Fully upholstered in performance bouclé fabric, this chair not only looks luxurious but also offers durability and easy maintenance, ensuring it remains a stylish centrepiece in your reading nook for years to come.

The removable seat cushions and covers make cleaning a breeze, while the shape of the chair itself is perfect for lounging. Whether you prefer to sit upright with a book in hand or curl up for a cosy afternoon nap, the Sacha Armchair provides the perfect combination of support and relaxation.

The best relaxation ensemble

Designed by renowned Australian designer Charles Wilson, the Gable High Armchair and Ottoman Set is a statement piece that boasts a laid-back silhouette and transforms your reading nook into a luxurious retreat.

@im_ericwang creates a cosy space with the Gable High Armchair and Ottoman Set. 

Its sculptural silhouette adds a touch of contemporary flair to any space, while its high backrest ensures full back support, allowing you to relax and unwind in comfort. The generous width and open armrest provide ample space to stretch out and put your legs up, making it the perfect spot to curl up with a good book.

Paired with the matching ottoman, this set offers the ultimate relaxation ensemble, inviting you to kick back and indulge in moments of blissful tranquility.

The best roomy 1.5-seater

If you live in a small space and want your reading chair to also double up as a 2-seater sofas, we’ve got the perfect chair for you. 

The Hamilton Round Performance Fabric Swivel 1.5-Seater Armchair is a stylish piece that offers the perfect balance between spaciousness and compactness. As a chair and a half, the Hamilton offers a wider seating area than a regular armchair but is smaller than a 2-seater sofa. 

The Hamilton Round Performance Fabric Swivel 1.5-Seater Armchair can also double up as a small sofa. 

This makes it the perfect solution for those who desire extra space to lounge and relax but have limited space to spare. 

Its round shape adds visual interest and the 360° swivel function adds an element of versatility, allowing you to effortlessly pivot to find your ideal reading position. 

The stainless steel floating legs complement its modern design, which adds a sleek and stylish touch to the overall aesthetic. These legs not only provide sturdy support but also elevate the chair, creating a sense of lightness and openness in your space.

The best outdoor retreat

If you’re taking your reading space outdoors, the Maui Outdoor Lounge Chair is the perfect piece. 

Constructed with durable and sturdy materials like acacia wood, the Maui Lounge Chair is built to withstand the elements. Acacia wood is known for its strength and resilience, making it an optimal choice for outdoor furniture. Additionally, the chair is lacquered for an extra layer of protection, ensuring longevity and durability in outdoor settings.

@c.lehmanhome creates a cosy lounging space with the Maui Outdoor Lounge Set. 

The armchair also features weather-resistant cushions that are fade, mildew, and stain-resistant. Whether you're lounging under the sun or enjoying a cool breeze in the evening, these cushions provide comfort and support, ensuring a relaxing reading experience outdoors.

Finding the best reading chair is an essential pursuit for anyone seeking solace, comfort, and inspiration within the pages of a good book. From oversized 1.5-seaters to cosy bouclé reading chairs, the options are endless. Go ahead, pick your favourite chair, grab a cosy throw blanket, and lose yourself in the magic of a good book!