Cozy Interior Design Ideas

Create a warm and inviting space

By Josienita Borlongan

Photo by iStockphoto.com

Make your home an inviting space with design ideas that will create a cozy ambiance that you enjoy being in all the time. After all, your home is a haven that should be welcoming, comfortable and safe. It is a place where you should be able to relax and entertain friends and family. Choose a style that you can call your own that will complement the rest of your home.

Color scheme

Choose warm paint colors such as dark red, chocolate, tan, purple or burnt orange for your walls. Add texture to achieve a cozier feel by asking your painter to use faux-painting techniques such as sponging, stippling, color washing or by applying Venetian plaster paint. Select a focal wall and have it painted a darker color to make it stand out. Use the focal wall as a backdrop for framed photos, artwork or paintings for added visual impact. Have the same color scheme applied to fabrics, upholstery, rugs and other accessories to ensure cohesiveness.

Furniture placement

Create a space conducive to interaction and conversation by arranging furniture so that people can face one another. Placing chairs and cushioned sofas closer together will allow people to see and hear each other. Flank the fireplace with chairs or recliners so that you can keep warm or read a book by the fire. Using a fireplace as a focal point in a room makes it more comfortable.

Drapes and rugs

Soften the mood in your room by using drapes and rugs. Choose thicker fabrics such as velvet or lined cotton to act as a thermal insulator during the colder months. Use rugs on hard surfaces such as hardwood and tile to protect feet from getting cold during winter months. Rugs can also help protect children when they play on the floor.

Throws and pillows

Adding throws and pillows can make sofas and chairs comfy, inviting and warm. Put one on each side of the sofa or add multiple pillows that span the width of the sofa to add more volume. Placing a throw on a chair or sofa can keep you warm when you watch TV, curl up with a book or take a nap.

Scents

Add scented candles, fresh flowers, dried scented flowers or wreaths can make a room smell sweet, clean and fresh. Avoid powerful scents that can cause nausea in some people who may be allergic to perfumes and some overly scented air fresheners. Tuck an unused fabric softener sheet under the sofa's cushions or inside the pillowcases for a milder scent that will not be overwhelming.