How to Make Your Home Feel Cozy

One of the questions I get most is, “How do I make my home feel cozy?” Now more than ever, we need a haven.

Luckily, it’s super simple to get that feeling. A few small tweaks and you’ll be Netflix and chillin’ in no time.

Here are a few simple ways you can make your home cozy. Do one or all of them! Small steps yield big rewards when it comes to decorating 

Pile on the cozy throw blankets

There’s a throw blanket for every season! Add one or more throws to the living room couch or your favorite armchair. Not sure how to style a throw blanket? Here’s a quick how-to.

In the fall and winter, look for materials like faux fur and chunky knits and patterns like plaids in warm, rich colors. For the spring and summer, switch to open knits and breezy fabrics like linen is softer, cooler hues.

Change up your toss pillows

Nothing is cozier than snuggling into a pile of pillows on the couch.

Same as the throw blankets, you’ll want to keep the season in mind. Use warmer colors and cozier fabrics for fall and winter, light bright and breezy for spring and summer.

And more is more! At least in our house. We’re a family of pillow hogs.

Candles, candles, and more candles

The flicker of candlelight is almost instantly soothing. Whether you go scented or unscented is a choose your own adventure thing.

My hands-down favorite for any time of year is this gorgeous mix of citrus and sparkling sugar,  but I also enjoy Macintosh apple, red currant, and anything smoky or leafy smelling. How about you? Are you team scent or unscented?

Regardless, add candles anywhere and everywhere for a cozy feel in your home.

Add home decor pieces that make you smile

Whether that’s family photos or a beautiful vase your best friend gifted you, choose your decorative accent thoughtfully. Sure, we all have filler, but it should be supporting cast to the really special pieces.

The pieces that make your home feel like you. 

Decorate your mantle 

Or if you don’t have a mantle, decorate your shelves. Go light, bright, and airy in the summer with translucent glass, driftwood objects, and cheerful or ethereal colors. In the fall, aim for a fuller, more textured feel with layers of artwork, dried florals, candles (love those candles!), and found objects with a bit of wear to them. And if you want to add in some pumpkins, I won’t be mad at you 

Add curtains

A well-dressed window makes your home feel considered and cozy. Think about what fabrics make you feel good and go with those. Options include anything from rich velvet curtains in deeper shades of your favorite accent colors to moody florals to floaty sheers.

The key is to focus on the qualities that you find cozy and feel-good.

Decorate with plants 

Adding plants will instantly make your home feel cozier. Just that lovely splash of life — even if you go faux — will give a warm feeling of welcome. Try big faux palm leaves, olive, eucalyptus, or maple branches. Or forage some from your own yard! It can make for a truly stunning look.

Accessorize with books and board games

Putting out reading materials and games to play will remind everyone to settle in and slow down. Decorating with things you use physically will encourage more analog interaction and fewer electronics.

Layer in accent rugs

And added layer of warmth under your feet will put that cozy feel through the roof. A few sheepskins or vintage scatter rugs go a long way.