1. Remove the Clutter

First things first, get rid of the clutter! In order to make your space cozy, the excess items piled around have to go. Clutter and piles cause stress and create a feeling that there is constantly more to do. Trust me, once they are gone you won’t know how you let them stay for so long. 

Start by sorting the items currently scattered on your surfaces (i.e. bookshelves, coffee table, nightstand, dresser, floor, etc.) into the following three categories: 

• Items you love: We’ll use these in the next step!

• Items that have no value: These items either don’t serve a purpose/function or they hold no sentimental attachment. These items should be donated or trashed.

• Items that hold value to you but don’t belong in this space: Determine the item’s purpose and find the appropriate home for it. Maybe you just never put that cold medicine back in your bathroom cabinet or maybe that old craft your niece gave you belongs in a keepsakes box in your closet. You decide, and then put it there.

2. Add Objects You Adore

This is where you’ll use the items that made it to the “love” category from the first step. Now before you get ahead of yourself, this does not mean you can carelessly start throwing those objects back onto your shelves. 

Sort through these items and be intentional about choosing just a couple pieces that you adore. These items should make you happy every time you see them or could double by serving a function. 

It is important to remember that less is more. To make your home feel cozy, you’ll need accessory items but you want to avoid going overboard. Not every surface needs items on it. Place just enough items that your space doesn’t look bare.

3. Create Layers

My favorite step is bringing layers into the room. Adding texture through textiles may arguably be the most impactful step when making your home cozy. Pillows, throws, window treatments, and rugs layer together to soften the room and add that “homey” feeling that’s been missing.

These items are also a great way to add personality to a room through patterns and pops of color. Just make sure all of these layers coordinate with each other in some way to create a cohesive space. 

4. Incorporate Plants

It doesn’t matter whether you have a green thumb or you can’t keep a succulent alive to save your life– plants are a must. Real or faux, you’ve got to have them.

I’m partial to real plants because of the added benefits (plus, isn’t the real thing always better than a knock-off?). Introducing a living organism into your space increases the quality of the air by reducing dust levels and releasing oxygen. 

Research has shown that being around green plants has even been linked to improved health and creativity– sounds like positive vibes. But most importantly (to me at least) having house plants adds a visual freshness to your home that keeps it feeling clean and energizing. 

Don’t worry if you’re feeling skeptical of your plant-caring abilities, you can still get the same visual effect with faux plants (that is, without the improved air quality of course).

5. Vary Light Levels

The last step to making your home feel cozy is to have a variety of lighting options. While your ceiling light might provide plenty of light, odds are it’s too much light at times and can create a harsh cast. 

Being able to adjust the lighting levels with accent lamps can help create a relaxing environment. That’s why having various lamps and candles in addition to your overhead light are essential for setting the mood. 

Try it out!

By implementing these five steps, you can transform any room into a warm and inviting space. With these simple adjustments, your home will not only feel cozier but will become a place you love spending time in.

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