A Guide to Creating a Cozy Living Room

Regardless of how large or small your living room may be, it’s important to make the space feel comfortable and welcoming for your family and your guests. A living room is the central gathering place in your home, and whether you’re lounging and reading a book or hosting a party, it should be a cozy place for all to enjoy.

Here are several easy ways to make your living room cozier than ever.

Create an Accent Wall

A strategically painted accent wall will not only make your space look more modern, but it also creates a feeling of more space. Select one warm color to enhance the room. Then place the color on the wall where you’d like to draw the most attention. Finish it off by adorning your accent wall with something bold, yet complementary, like a decorative mirror.

Find the Perfect Coffee Table

While the couch may be the focal point of the space, achieving the perfect comfy aesthetic requires the right coffee table, too. Select a coffee table that complements your couch without overpowering it, then accent the table with books, flowers, coasters, candles, or a small lamp.

Give it character, but avoid clutter. For a nontraditional option, try substituting a coffee table with a tray on a tufted ottoman. An ottoman can serve a similar purpose, but it looks and feels a bit more plush and elegant.

Frame Photos and Prints in a Gallery Wall

Your favorite photos and artwork shouldn’t just accent your home—they should tell a bold story. By selecting chic frames and arranging them in a gallery wall, your living room can gain charm and sophistication.

A gallery wall helps emphasize the theme of the room while showing your own distinct personality. Place it behind a couch, over a fireplace, or in an emptier area where the images can really shine.

Decorate Your Mantle

A bare mantle can leave a living room feeling stark and empty, so it’s best to decorate the area in a way that complements the rest of the layout. As a centralized part of your home, it’s an ideal place to display small or large pieces that highlight the beauty of the complete area. It’s the little details that really bring this room to life.

Add Throw Blankets to Your Furniture

A throw blanket offers multifunctional décor at its finest. It’s a cost-effective way to add rich texture, color, and—of course—warmth to your gathering place. Throw blankets provide a great way to experiment with different patterns and materials, and they’re easy to store as well. Get creative with your room by rotating the blankets throughout the year.

Use Your Fireplace Wisely

When it comes to warming up your living room, getting the right fireplace is essential, and it often serves as a beautiful focal point in a home. Whether it’s gas or electric, there are ample options and styles to suit the look of each home.

For a nostalgic twist, opt for a small wood burning stove instead of a standard fireplace. In addition to providing an affordable alternative to large fireplaces, it can also be an excellent space saver.

Beautify the Room with a Rug

When adding elements of color and coziness to a living room, a well-placed rug can be truly transformative. Select a rug that speaks to the theme of the room, and don’t be afraid to try out intricate patterns, eclectic themes, or playful textures. Particularly in homes with hardwood floors, a rug can cheer up the entire room.

Embrace Natural Light

Dark living rooms can feel uninviting, so it’s best to liven up the room with natural light. By keeping your windows uncovered,

natural light will brighten the room, make it feel more spacious, and improve your mood. If you’re interested in adding curtains, look for wispy, airy materials that still let the light come through.