11 Tips to Create a Cozy Living Room
Living rooms are often the center of the home. It’s where we nap, watch tv, read, hang out with friends, play with the kids, and for some, work. In this blog, we share practical design tips for creating a cozy living room that you and your family will want to hang out in.
- Upgrade to Comfortable Furniture
Oversized or plush furniture invites people to kick back and relax. If your space allows, choose a sectional with a chaise or an extra deep sofa, which are both perfect for napping.
- Select Soft Fabrics
Chenille fabrics is known for its velvety texture that invites people to relax. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, you are sure to find an option that suits your style.
- Get a Plush Rug
Anchor your space with a fabulous plush rug. Nothing says comfort than a soft shag rug under your feet!
- Create a Conversation Layout
Grouping your furniture into layouts that promote conversation gives the space an intimate feel. This often means moving the furniture from the perimeter of the room closer together in a tighter grouping, but still allowing for walking space around. This is typically done around a coffee table with a sofa or sectional and coordinating arm chairs.
- Utilize a Fireplace
A fireplace is inherently cozy, so by utilizing it as a focal point you can automatically create a sense of comfort. If you don’t have a traditional fireplace you can get an electric one and still achieve the same look and feel. In addition, fireplaces are great for adding mood lighting at night!
- Layer Lighting
Lighting plays an important role in creating a cozy space. Create perfect lighting by incorporating 3 types of lighting: ambient, task, and accent. Ambient lighting incorporates your overhead and natural lighting. Task lighting, such as lamps, helps illuminate small, specific areas. Accent lighting adds extra ambiance through strategically placed scones and pendants.
- Paint the Walls a Dark Color
A neutral palette is often the go-to when decorating, but using dark colors on the walls are on the rise. Better for a large space, dark walls, or just even an accent wall, helps to create a sense of intimacy in the space. You can contrast lighter colors in the upholstery and accents so the dark walls aren’t overwhelming.
- Use Soft Textiles
Enhance the cozy feel but incorporating soft fabrics into accent pillows and blankets. This is a great way to create a more inviting space without investing in new upholstered furniture.
- Make Your Space Personal
Coziness is a personal feel and the best way to do that is to incorporate things that you love. You can do with family photos or other art that you love, favorite books, or little accent pieces that make you smile.
- Use an Ottoman for a Coffee Table
Sharp edges and hard materials don’t promote cozy and comfort. Using an upholstered ottoman for a coffee table help to soften the space. There are ottomans that come with storage as well as tray inserts for displaying personal items.
- Consider Smell Along with Sight
Aromatherapy is one of the easiest ways to make a space feel cozy. Using a scented candle not only will give you mood lighting but will provide a lovely scent. You can also opt for fun essential oil diffuser.
The living room is where a family spends most of its time together, so you want to make sure that you are creating a space that the comfortable for all. We understand that this process can be daunting, so stop to speak with our on-staff interior design on how to create a cozy oasis in your living room!
