How to create a cosy living room for winter

Nowhere in the house brings as much warmth and pleasure as the living room. It’s the one place the whole family can come together to entertain guests or just relax.

With winter on our doorstep, a cosy living room is high on the priority list, as the cold is best enjoyed from the comfortable warmth of your home. With that in mind, here are our cosy living room ideas for winter.

Use of Space

When we think of cosiness, we think of small rooms filled with comfy objects and soft lighting. However, you can still make a larger room look cosy with a few tricks. Try building seating around a focal point, such as a fireplace or window to visually reduce the room’s size. Clever optical illusions with tall living room furniture can also make the space feel smaller. Bookcases and shelving units work well, as they take up space and give the impression of a smaller room.

Another great way to break down larger rooms is by creating pockets of activity: a sofa with ottomans in front of the TV, a window-seat or armchair for a reading nook, a desk and chair for working, or a music stand and stool for playing an instrument. This instantly adds character and personalises the space, while also creating the illusion of several smaller rooms in one. Throw in some soft accessories and furnishings like faux fur throws and cushions for a sense of opulence and even more cosiness.

Lighting

Lighting plays a big part in creating a room’s mood. Every aspect matters, from the bulbs to the shades to the placement. Subdued, low lighting tends to convey more warmth than bright, ceiling lighting – lamps and cleverly placed spotlights are key to achieving this ambience. Our collection of floor lamps and table lamps includes both modern and antique designs. Whether you go for curved frames, paper shades, sculptural designs, classic styles or striking silhouettes, lamps will radiate warm, natural glows. Even lamps made from cooler materials like concrete or marble will warm up a room, especially with the right bulb.

 

“Every aspect matters, from
the bulbs to the shades
to the placement.”

 

Candles are another good option for making a room look cosy. They emanate a gentle, flickering light that lends a sense of intimacy to your living room. Place them on a mantelpiece, a side table or a decorative tray. Choose candle holders made from materials that enhance the warmth, like ceramics and wood.

Layer & Texture

Layers and textures give your living room depth and warmth. Rugs are an easy way to achieve this, especially if you have tile or hardwood floors. Our rug collection includes sheepskin, wool, viscose and textile blends, designed in patterned, woven, tufted and textured styles. Pick the right shape for your living room – rectangular for a long, skinny space and circular or square for a wider room.

 

“Maximise visual impact by
arranging objects in a
slightly haphazard way.”

 

Too much empty space can make a room feel cold, so fill your living room with ornaments and objects to create a homely feel. Maximise visual impact by arranging them in a slightly haphazard way. Adorn your walls with textured frames filled with artwork and family portraits. Throw together an assortment of playful, mismatched cushions and drape brightly woven throws over armchairs and sofas. Layer your shelves and tables with ceramic or glass vases and other decorative items like metal bowls, small sculptures and lacquered trays.

With these simple tips and some attention to detail, your living room will be cosy and comfy this winter. So snuggle under a blanket on your sofa, curl up with a good book in your armchair, or sip tea at your table – you deserve it!