While we love a good renovation or an Instagram-worthy makeover of a room, we certainly appreciate simple home improvements as well, and are always eager to ask designers how to make a space look nice and fresh without too much effort. This time, we’re taking a look at 10 designer-approved tips to make your home feel much cozier in simple steps!
Incorporate Warmer Tones
For designer Rebecca Rollins, warming up a space is key to making it feel like home, starting with incorporating wood tones. But that’s not all, because Rollins is also a proponent of using paint to warm up a room. “Painting your walls a warm greige color like Sherwin Williams Drift of Mist is a great option,” she explains. “And layering lots of textures like linen and the raw and organic materials are a must.”
Layer, Layer, Layer
“To cozy up your space, add layers,” designer Michelle Gage says. All types are fair game. “In these spaces, we included layers of pillows, blankets, and even plants.” This is a wonderful way to make your rooms feel more cozy by adding more of your favorite comfort objects.
GET THE LOOK
Utilize the Three L’s
Designer Elizabeth Birch combines many of the suggestions highlighted above into a simple slogan. She says, “I follow the 3 Ls when it comes to creating a comfortable home for my clients: lighting, layering and love.” This is the motto that has lead to the success of many of her design projects.
Go Monochromatic
Designer Catasha Singleton finds that sticking with just one color in a monochromatic palette really makes it easier to feel cozy in a room. “Whether or not the all-neutral room trend stays or goes, nothing says cozy like using a color consistently across the room,” she comments. “My favorite monochromatic look is ivory boucle on a natural jute rug, with hints of light brown accents.”
Add Some Fire
Designer Ashley Roi Jenkins says “Candles and fireplaces are essential in my homes. I even have a plug-in fireplace which I purchased online and assembled. It plugs in, lights up, and throws heat all with a remote.”
Declutter
“This is not the most glamorous step to take, but it has such a profound impact on how we interact with our spaces,” designer Elle Jupiter promises. Find the spots in your house where clutter gives you the most anxiety and really declines the quality of your interior design and get rid of it!
GET THE LOOK
Set Out Throw Pillows and Blankets
Sherpa, waffle knit, and woven throw pillows are a quick and easy way to make any sofa extremely cozy,” designer Nicole Martel comments. “And who doesn’t love a chunky knit throw? With a purpose that is both functional and stylish, it’s a win-win.”
Include Personal Touches
Make your home cozy and personalized with photos of family and friends in side tables, consoles or even walls, as suggested by designer Audrey Sterk.
Think About Those Lightbulbs
Lighting can play such a key role in creating a cozy atmosphere, according to many designers around the world. “Make sure you are using the right color temperature for your light bulbs to foster a cozy space,” designer Samantha Williams suggests.
Add a Dose of Life
“Bring life into the space by adding fresh flowers or greenery,” Palantino advises. Whether you drop by your local corner store in the city or clip branches from your backyard is up to you.
READ ALSO: HOUSE TOUR: TIMELESSLY MODERN HOME IN CHICAGO WITH KARIM RASHID’S NEW COLLECTION