50 Times People Got Clever And Creative With Home Decor And It Totally Paid Off (New Pics)

Turning a house into a home need not cost an arm and a leg or require expert interior design skills, some basic, sound decisions can help one make a house a cozy, inviting, and comfortable home. With an understanding of some simple interior design principles, one can make their house a homelike space where people are inclined to be, unwind, and connect.

Lighting is perhaps the most powerful tool to make a room feel cozy. Good lighting sets the mood of the room and dictates how we feel within it. Instead of overhead lighting alone, work to layer light across your house. Combine ceiling lights with floor lamps, table lamps, wall sconces, and even string lights or candles. Choose warm-toned soft bulbs that produce a cozy warm light rather than harsh, white light. The atmosphere must be welcoming no matter the time of day.

Warm colors are also essential in warm interior design. Neutrals such as beige, taupe, pale gray, and creamy white form a relaxing base that's easy to work from. The addition of accent colors, like muted blues, forest greens, terracotta, or mustard yellow, provides depth and warmth without overwhelming the room. These colors work well in various cushions, rugs, curtains, artworks, or painted furniture. Choosing a unifying color scheme throughout the home can also foster flow and calm.

Texture is crucial in making coziness. A space is warmer when it is layered with different materials and surfaces. Think of a plush rug on a hardwood floor, a chunky knit afghan draped over a velvet armchair, linen drapes billowing in front of an open window, or wicker baskets overflowing with magazines and throw blankets. Nature-derived materials like wood, wool, leather, and cotton are grounding and textured. Swapping out throw pillows every season or adding a new table runner can even add warmth and personality.

Don’t forget to think about how furniture is laid out. Arrange space so that it feels open and accessible, yet still encourages closeness and intimacy. Place furniture in groupings to encourage conversation, put sofas and chairs facing one another rather than all facing a TV. Include plenty of comfy seating with cushions and throws in close distance. If you have a large window or fireplace, consider featuring it as a focal point to extend the sense of warmth or feeling of being close to nature.

Personal touches turn a house into a home. Having pictures of family members, artwork you love, books you've read, and vacation souvenirs gives the space the feeling of being lived-in and meaningful. Don't fret about mixing styles, warmth comes more from authenticity and charm than from coordinating furnishings. A vintage lamp, a handmade bowl, or a worn leather chair can each carry a story and give your home soul.

Bringing plants into your home is a simple method of adding warmth and health. Houseplants bring color and freshness to the room and will purify the air. Even a single or twin plant, a potted fern, peace lily, or hanging ivy, will moderate a room and make it more lively. Should you lack a green thumb yourself, dried flowers or high-quality artificial plants will still provide visual warmth.