Easy Ways to Add Comfort and Personality to Your Home
Dim the Overhead Lights
Bright overhead lighting in gathering areas can make people feel like they're under a spotlight. A good solution is to instead use table lamps, accent lights, and soft downlights to create a casual environment that puts everyone at ease.
Tip: Uplights placed on the floor behind furniture or decor add subtle warm energy and depth to dark areas that would otherwise be featureless.
Use Luxurious Area Rugs for Comfort
Plush rugs don't need to be pricey to give people the feeling of being comfortable and protected from harsh elements. Interior design experts suggest layering area rugs made of sheepskin, faux fur or something with a heavy knit over hard floor surfaces and underneath furniture such as coffee tables and beds.
Create a Fireplace Effect In Any Room
Electric fireplaces are now so easy to install and come in so many sizes that they fit nearly any room situation. The version pictured above costs under $150 on Amazon and can be installed free-standing on legs, recessed into a wall, or attached directly to a vertical surface.
Incorporate Warm Metallics
Even if warm metals aren't part of your primary decorating theme, it's easy to pick up temporary pieces in copper or bronze to create a warmer look during the cooler months.
Choose Circular Decor
Including some rounded items in your room's decor style makes it feel cozier immediately, according to Jemma Lane of Arbor Living. In addition to wall art, this concept applies to pillows, poofs, and items on shelves.
Create a Welcoming Entryway
First impressions start at the front door, and guests will feel better when they have enough space to remove coats and put down bags without being cramped. Leave some hangers free and consider using shelves or containers to keep shoes and bags organized.
Use Warm, Flexible Lighting
Soft white bulbs in the 2,700 to 3,000 Kelvin range are good choices for cozy areas such as living rooms and bedrooms. (The color temperature of bulbs is measured in Kelvins.)
Tip: Dimmable lighting with adjustable angles, such as these flexible wall lights available on Amazon, allows you to use direct or reflected light to match the mood of a room.
Layer Textures and Fabrics
Textured throw blankets and pillows create a luxurious feel while adding visual interest. Rather than replacing entire sets of pillows, it's easy to find pillow covers that can be easily changed.
Tip: Searching a shopping site for "faux fur" decor usually brings up a large selection of pillow covers and throw blankets.
Reverse the Ceiling Fans
Most ceiling fans have a switch that allows you to change the direction of the blades. This reverses the flow of air and directs warm air down from the ceiling, helping to keep your home comfortable during cooler seasons.
Bring Natural Decor Inside
Weathered wood, stone, and natural accents such as pine cones, colorful berries, and evergreen branches add to a rustic feeling of comfort that can work well regardless of a home's primary decor style.
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