With the colder months upon us, we all want to find ways to warm up our homes to make them the perfect places to rejuvenate and spend time with our loved ones. My home has always been my sanctuary, and the last few years of pandemic life have just further emphasized the importance. When trying to create the perfect inviting and cozy ambience, focus on shifting the overall feeling rather than just the specific components of your rooms. This can be more challenging to do when working in a smaller space because the number of items we bring into the space needs to be thoughtful and curated to prevent things from feeling too cluttered and busy. Here are three main tips to consider when cozying up a home and even more so for a smaller space:
Focus on lighting
There are three main types of categories of light; ambient, task and decorative. Ambient lighting is more “general” lighting (e.g. pot lights, chandeliers, overhead lights). Task lights usually centre around the ability to do a “task” (e.g. table lamps, floor lamps, etc.) and decorative lighting has more of a visual focus (e.g. picture lights, wall sconces and candlelight). In a smaller space, a mix of lighting is often overlooked as we tend to rely on overhead lighting. Just because you have a large chandelier in one area that dominates the room doesn’t mean you have to have it always turned on. Instead, opt for two table lamps and candlelight to create a calmer and softer ambience. Always bring in dimmer switches to create evening warmth.
Emphasize texture
Updating the textures and colours of decorative items is an easy and cost-effective way to add warmth and shift the overall tone of a home. The key line of thought here is to substitute as opposed to add, especially in smaller spaces. You have a certain amount of usual real estate for decorative and display items so be thoughtful with what you substitute in. Phase out your linen throw with a cozy one made of boucle or a faux fur for an immediate injection of a cabin vibe. Confidently swap out accent pillows and even rugs to shake things up. The goal is to create the largest amount of impact with the least number of “things”.
Go for groupings
Accessorizing in a smaller space is more difficult than in a larger one. Try and refrain from adding vases, candles and other accessories throughout the house. Instead, opt for purposeful vignettes and cohesive groupings to make an impact. If you’re not quite sure where to start, use groupings of three or five, with an emphasis on balance in scale and size. If you have a larger vase, add in a smaller floral arrangement and picture frames to add a personal sense of depth and richness. Symmetry can be beautiful if you’re working with the right scale. Opt for larger candleholders on each side of the mantel as opposed to smaller to create a purposeful focal point.
Embrace the new season.