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Is HGTV running on your TV in the background, with your Better Homes & Garden Magazine open on your coffee table? Do you look around and wonder, “Why can’t my living room be country chic like theirs?” or “How do they make it all look so warm and homey?” Well I'll tell ya -It is easier than you think to create an inviting home using these simple tips that break down each element to tie it all together.
START WITH YOUR ENTRANCE
The entrance to your home is the first thing that welcomes your guests, so make sure you spend extra time decorating this space. Much like an appetizer, your entryway is a teaser for what lies next. An entry table, some decorative objects, seating, and lighting are all key elements to consider. Adding plants and a mirror is an excellent way to brighten the space and bring a touch of outdoors in, making it a truly transitional space. Placing an umbrella plant by your front door is said to bring good luck! Adding a “Welcome” sign or doormat is always a nice accent piece that gives your guest a warm invitation in.
ADD THROW BLANKETS
Find some nice, quality throw blankets that coordinate with your living area and bedroom. A nice throw blanket on the living room couch not only encourages guests to make themselves right at home, but it adds an additional layer of texture to your space. Blankets are an excellent way to bring in a pop of color or pattern that can instantly amplify the aesthetic feel of a room. Keeping a throw on your bed can give it a nice decorative touch. You can even pick out your most stylish throws, find a nice woven basket or blanket ladder, and put them on display - inviting your guests to grab a blanket and stay a while!
GET YOURSELF A COMFY COUCH
Nothing says, “Cozy” quite like a nice, comfortable couch. The couch is typically the staple of a living space, dictating the type of accent furniture and decorative details that will be added. Choosing the right one sets the entire tone of the space you want to create, so it's important to consider size, shape, and upholstery when making your decision. Layering with a mix of throw pillows can elevate the feeling of coziness as well.
ACCENTUATE THE FIREPLACE
This can be done structurally or by adding decorative accessories. Highlighting the fireplace wall with unique trim features, contrasting color, and /or mixed materials immediately captures your guest's attention and draws the eye making it focal point of a room. If you are looking for a softer way to accentuate your fireplace try adding a large mirror or piece of art. From there you can layer the look with candles, vases, plants, and smaller pieces of framed art or photographs. Adding unique wall sconces can also elevate the overall appearance, especially for those who may have their televisions wall mounted with no space to decorate a mantle. However, don’t try too hard to follow a specific decorative plan for your mantle. Consider the rule of 3, and don't be afraid to mix it up with old & new pieces. Finding pieces that work with your style and coordinate with the room will help give your space some personality.
MAKE ROOM FOR FRESH FLOWERS OR PLANTS
Plants, Plants, Plants! Do you have a space that seems to be missing Something but your not sure what it is? Probably a plant. Fresh flowers & plants make a great addition to any home. In any room. They bring elements of color, texture, and beauty; and most house plants are air purifiers! Visit your local nursery or farmers market to pick out some options that you feel comfortable tending to. Succulents, snake plants, philodendron, and zz plants are great options even if you don't have a green thumb. Pro Tip: Kitchens & Bathrooms are an excellent space for the plants needing a higher humidity level. Be sure to check out the details & care instructions before bringing any plants into your home, especially if you have young children or pets.
USE THE RIGHT LIGHTING
The right lighting can work wonders. Even if you have recessed lighting - for living rooms, bedrooms, and offices - lamps are often the better choice. They generally provide a softer light, more height & dimension, and they come in the a variety of unique styles to add a touch of flair & personality to your space. Chandeliers, pendant lights, and ceiling fans can also greatly impact the feel of any room.
CREATE AN OUTDOOR HANGOUT SPOT
Take your living space outdoors! Here's what you need: 1) Comfortable seating. 2) a fire pit. Twinkle lights also make a great addition your outdoor space for fair weather seasons. Honestly, need I say more?
LET THERE BE CANDLELIGHT.....AND COOL MIRRORS
Having plenty of candles around your home immediately gives it a sense of warmth. Most come in a variety of fun containers that can also add color, texture, and style. Put a couple candles in each room and people will feel a sense of comfort no matter where they are in your home. Not to mention your home will smell great, too. Different scents can even enhance the mood of your home - baked cookies, fresh flowers, or a musky vanilla scent can have a cozy effect; where as linens, fresh cut grass, or eucalyptus can be energizing! Placing a cool mirror above the dresser or table with your candles can give a room personality and reflect your style (no pun intended), as well as the soft light of the flames. Mirrors also give the illusion that a room is much larger than it really is, which is why I consider them a MUST in most small spaces.
INCORPORATE A LARGE AREA RUG
If your living area has hardwood floors, a large area rug will instantly warm up the space. Rugs can be used as a focal point in homes with less architectural character, so often the accessories, pillows, and paint colors can be decided based on the color and/or pattern of your chosen rug. Rugs are expensive, and usually the better it looks the more expensive it is. It's important to consider the material, pile, and durability of a rug based on the environment & activity in the intended space. If you have young children or pets consider a washable rug. If it's a high traffic area pick a lower pile so the wear doesn't become as obvious. Pro Tip: If you fell in love with a rug but the larger size is out of your budget, consider layering a smaller size over a larger, solid rug that fills the space the way you'd like.
CREATE A GALLERY WALL
Displaying pictures is a great way to let people know who or what is most important to you while adding a personal touch to your home. It probably sounds fun to make a point of "personal touches" in your own home, but you'd be surprised how many homes can have a sterile environment for aesthetic effect. Often utilized to fill a stairway wall, these fun projects can really make an impact anywhere. They can also be customized to reflect your unique space & style. For example uniform frames and themed photos express a clean, sophisticated visual; while mismatch frames adapt a more eclectic vibe. Pro Tip: Consider incorporating wall mounted televisions & mirrors into your design as a fun little feature.
These tips are sure to help make your home as cozy and inviting as can be. If you need help getting started on your next project feel to check out the Design Services page or reach out directly to alrinteriorhome@gmail.com
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