Creating a cozy home: 12 designers share their favorite tips & tricks

Discover the secrets to transforming any living space into a sanctuary of comfort and style, with practical advice straight from seasoned interior designers. This article unveils a wealth of expert tips and tricks that cater to creating a cozy, inviting home environment. Learn how to master the art of home coziness through strategic design choices, from lighting and textures to furniture selection and room layout.

  • Incorporate Natural Elements for Warmth and Serenity
  • Use Smart Lighting Design
  • Integrate Texture Through Rugs
  • Create a Reading Nook with Warm Lighting
  • Combine Natural Elements and Textiles
  • Choose Comfortable Furniture for Relaxation
  • Add a Projector Lamp for Moonlight Effect
  • Fill Space with Plush Cushions and Upholstery
  • Blend Work and Relaxation in Home Office
  • Use Soft Lighting and Natural Accents
  • Embrace Hygge with Layered Textures
  • Incorporate Natural Materials for Warmth

Incorporate Natural Elements for Warmth and Serenity

One of my favorite ways to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in my home is by incorporating natural elements that bring warmth and serenity to a space. For example, in my living room, I’ve placed a carefully selected tree species, an indoor fiddle-leaf fig next to a large window where it thrives in natural light. This tree not only adds a sense of calm and connection to nature but also acts as a focal point, drawing the eye upward and making the room feel larger and more balanced.

I’ve paired this with warm wooden furniture and neutral-toned cushions to complement the natural aesthetic, creating a space that feels both inviting and peaceful. My years of experience as a certified arborist helped me choose the right tree for the space, ensuring it would thrive indoors and continue to enhance the room’s ambiance for years to come.

Additionally, I use soft, ambient lighting and seasonal greenery to complete the cozy vibe. For instance, during the holidays, I arrange small pine branches in vases or add eucalyptus garlands along the mantle, infusing the room with fresh scents and a festive touch. This idea stems from years of working with trees and understanding how to showcase their natural beauty, even indoors. Through these thoughtful touches, I’ve created a space where my family and guests feel comfortable, relaxed, and connected to the outdoors, no matter the season.

Amaury Ponce, Business Owner, Ponce Tree Services


Use Smart Lighting Design

A smart lighting design is the first step in creating a warm and inviting ambiance. I use dimmable table lamps and a floor lamp with a soft fabric cover to generate a cozy, ambient lighting in my living room instead of overhead lights. The mood is immediately set by the appropriate lighting, which creates a cozy and tranquil atmosphere. Whether it’s for reading, chatting, or simply relaxing after a hard day, soft, indirect light has a way of beckoning people to hang out.

The next layer that gives a space warmth is texture. To bring everything together, I use a thick area rug, pillows made of a combination of velvet and linen, and soft throw blankets. These elements provide comfort on a tactile level in addition to depth. I also take note of color; muted, earthy hues tend to create a calm, grounded atmosphere. The place feels lived-in without being cluttered because everything is set up to appear naturally welcoming.

Adding personality and sensory components that give the space life is the finishing touch. I keep a small stack of my favorite books or magazines on the coffee table, along with a scented candle in amber or cedarwood to provide a touch of subtle warmth. A vase of fresh flowers or dried eucalyptus are examples of natural accents that I use to add organic balance to the room. These little touches give the space personality and purpose in addition to being a source of decoration, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Steven Mena, CEO/Owner, AAA Fence and Deck


Integrate Texture Through Rugs

Integrating texture through rugs can dramatically change the feel of a room. People often underestimate how the addition of a well-chosen area rug can connect space elements and create warmth. To enhance that sense of coziness, opt for a rug with a deep, plush pile, or even consider layering a couple of rugs. This adds dimension and invites you and your guests to sink into comfort. Choose pieces with rich, earthy tones to give off a welcoming, naturally soothing vibe. It’s a simple method that transforms the room significantly, grounding the space visually while enticing everyone to relax.

In a living room, strategically placing lower furniture pieces around the rug can create a more intimate setting. A common oversight is not anchoring the furniture onto the rug; make sure at least the front legs of your furniture are on it. This arrangement subtly draws people together, promoting conversation and a shared sense of space. Surround this setup with warm lighting-table lamps or floor lamps with soft bulbs further enhance the inviting atmosphere. Your living area becomes a perfect haven for relaxation and social gatherings, making everyone feel instantly at home.

Connor Butterworth, CEO, Southwestern Rugs Depot


Create a Reading Nook with Warm Lighting

I focus on warm lighting and personalized touches to build a cozy and inviting atmosphere in my home. In my living room, I’ve transformed a corner into a reading nook that instantly feels like a retreat. There’s a soft armchair with a textured throw blanket, a small wooden side table, and a vintage-style lamp that casts a warm, golden glow. The lighting is just right—bright enough for reading but gentle enough to make the space feel calming and peaceful.

One specific evening stands out for me. It was raining, and I curled up in that chair with a cup of tea and a favorite book. The glow from the lamp and the sound of the rain created a sense of comfort and stillness I’ll never forget. That moment reminded me how small, thoughtful details can make a space feel like a sanctuary.

If you want to create a similar atmosphere, start with warm lighting to set the mood. It makes such a difference. Then, layer in textures with cozy textiles like blankets and cushions. Incorporate personal accents that showcase your individuality, such as family photos, travel souvenirs, or handmade crafts. These details not only add warmth to your home but also transform it into a space that genuinely reflects who you are.

Taylor Wilson, Founder, Active Recovery Companions


Combine Natural Elements and Textiles

I integrate natural elements and textures, particularly in the kitchen, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in my home. I achieve this by incorporating warm wood tones and soft textiles. Combining white kitchen cabinets with natural wood accents, such as open shelving or a butcher block kitchen counter, adds warmth and character to the space.

I also emphasize comfort through the use of textiles, like patterned dish towels and a soft area rug that invite a touch of hominess. I bring in greenery with potted herbs on the windowsill, adding color and infusing the kitchen with a fresh, lively feel. The combination of textures and natural elements promotes a welcoming environment and encourages connection, making the kitchen a gathering place for family and friends.

Josh Qian, COO and Co-Founder, Best Online Cabinets


Choose Comfortable Furniture for Relaxation

My favorite way to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in my home is by choosing comfortable furniture, especially seating that encourages relaxation. I look for pieces that feel good to sit in, like a couch with plush cushions that don’t lose their shape or a recliner that supports your back while being soft enough to sink into. The fabric is just as important as the design. I prefer materials like cotton or microfiber because they feel warm and inviting but are durable enough to handle everyday use.

Placement is part of creating the right mood too. I arrange seating in a way that feels open and conversational, whether it’s a couple of chairs by the window for natural light or a sofa near a cozy rug to create a space that feels grounded. Adding a throw blanket or a few textured cushions completes the setup, making it both practical and visually inviting.

The goal is to make every piece of furniture serve a purpose, not just functionally but emotionally. When someone walks into the room and sees a comfortable spot to relax, they immediately feel at ease. That’s the kind of atmosphere I enjoy creating in my home.

Daniel Vasilevski, Director & Owner, Bright Force Electrical


Add a Projector Lamp for Moonlight Effect

My favorite way is to add a projector lamp that mimics moonlight, casting soft, moving shadows onto the ceiling and walls. The serene lighting, paired with calming sounds from a white noise machine, creates a tranquil, dreamy environment perfect for unwinding. I usually hang them above my bed or drape them around the curtains for a dreamy look.

I also like to light candles with calming scents such as lavender or vanilla to achieve this feeling. The combination of the soft moonlight and flickering candles creates a soothing ambiance that instantly makes me feel relaxed and at ease. Go for a moonlight projector lamp that has a remote control, so you can easily adjust the settings and colors to suit your mood.

I recently completed a project for one of my clients to create a cozy atmosphere in her living room. I added a moonlight effect projector lamp, along with a Himalayan salt lamp for a warm glow. The room also had large windows, so I hung sheer curtains to diffuse the natural light and create a softer, more inviting atmosphere. She really likes the cozy and calming feel of the room and now spends more time there. It’s amazing how a few simple additions can transform a space into a cozy oasis.

Logan Taylor, Founder, Dazzle Company


Fill Space with Plush Cushions and Upholstery

I love filling my space with plush cushions and soft upholstery. Especially memory foam cushions because they’re super comfy and just hug your body. When you plop down, it’s like being wrapped in a soft cloud.

In my living room, I go all out with layered cushions on the couch. Right next to it, I’ve got a big chair with a memory foam cushion. It’s perfect for curling up with a book. For both of these, I’ve mixed different sizes and textures like soft velvets with durable outdoor fabrics. It looks great and also invites people to sink in and relax. I also keep a few throws nearby for that extra touch of warmth.

Mike Handelsman, CEO & Owner, FoamOrder


Blend Work and Relaxation in Home Office

I keep my home office comfortable but professional, blending work and relaxation. A big part of that is my wooden desk, paired with a rich leather chair and a soft lamp that casts just enough light without being harsh.

I keep a family photo in a simple black frame and a small potted plant on the desk to bring life to the room. The balance of functional and warm helps make the space feel personal without being distracting, allowing me to shift from work to winding down with ease.

Gordon Hirsch, Founder and Managing Attorney, Hirsch Law Group


Use Soft Lighting and Natural Accents

When we speak of home comfort and homely comfort this all refers to one purpose of warming the atmosphere. One of the best methods that I use is to incorporate additional soft lighting into the space. We like soft warm-shaded lamps and fairy lights and that is why in the living room they create a rather calm and comfortable atmosphere. The light emitted by the bulbs does not interfere with the environment and the room is well-suited for rest after work.

In our living area, we aim to incorporate more comfy and fluffy throws and many cushions on the sofa. That definitely is the ideal place for relaxation. What’s more, the textures of the cushions and blankets create warmth in the room. We also like to incorporate some earthen paint color with natural wooden furniture, which brings some of the outside world inside, hence making the place cozier.

Finally, there’s nothing like hanging family pictures on the wall, besides we like candles on the center table to have that extra homely feel. Not only do they give off a great smell, but they also play a part in creating the proper atmosphere. These small steps give the house a homey feel, and they are all evidence of us, making our house a home.

Nitya Seth, Interior Designer, NITYANAMYA


Embrace Hygge with Layered Textures

One of my favorite ways to make a home feel cozy and inviting is by embracing the Danish concept of hygge. Lots of our products are inspired by Scandinavian design, which is why I am so well acquainted with hygge and its design philosophy.

At its core, hygge is all about creating a space that feels warm, comfortable, and all in all—a place that makes you never want to leave. One of the easiest ways you can do this in a living room in particular, is to layer textures. You can do this with a plush rug to set the foundation and then add cozy elements like boucle throw pillows or a chunky knit blanket draped over the arm of the couch.

Next, you want to look at your lighting—which really is everything when it comes to creating coziness. I like to use warm-toned lamps and scatter candles around the room for a soft and warm glow. Trust me when I say that doing this will create a space that makes you want to curl up with a book and a warm cup of tea.

Bree Steele, Interior Designer and Trade Accounts Manager, RJ Living


Incorporate Natural Materials for Warmth

One effective way I create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in my home is by incorporating natural materials, such as reclaimed wood and stone. These elements bring warmth and texture to the space, fostering a connection to nature that feels both calming and welcoming. For instance, I love using reclaimed wood for beams and accent walls. The unique imperfections and history of the wood add character and charm, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Pairing this with stone accents, like a fireplace or natural stone flooring, enhances the tactile experience, making the room feel grounded and inviting.

I also find that an open layout contributes significantly to coziness. Large windows allow natural light to flood the room, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that connects the indoors with the outdoors. This openness encourages movement and interaction, making the space more welcoming for gatherings.

Marco Manazzone, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Zzone Homes


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