Even if you live alone, you want your home to feel like a warm and inviting place for guests. That’s why it’s important to go beyond just the bedroom and kitchen when preparing your living space to be comfortable and inviting. While decorating your living room is a great start, there are other areas of your house that can be cozy, too.
If you have the right design elements in your home, you can create a welcome environment for guests of all kinds – even if they’re only coming over to watch the big game or have a business meeting. Follow these tips and tricks to set a welcoming tone throughout your entire home.
1. Make sure you have enough seating options. No matter how big or small your living space is, having plenty of comfortable seating options is essential. Whether you’re entertaining or just enjoying an evening at home, there should always be somewhere for people to sit that looks inviting and isn’t covered in clutter.
2. Introduce texture and warmth with throws and rugs. Even if you don’t have room for a full-sized couch or armchair, think about adding throws or cozy rugs instead to give your space some added texture as well as warmth. They’ll provide a great backdrop for entertainment pieces like coffee tables.
3. Keep it neutral. Go with classic, neutral shades like black and white, cream and gray (which are less harsh on the eyes), or beige and brown. If you’re not sure what will work in your space, stick with a muted palette of grays. White — especially snow-white — also makes for a good neutral backdrop. Add splashes of color with accents and accessories, like throw pillows, flowers or candles.
4. Choose natural materials. Wool blankets, sumptuous velvet and cashmere are just some of the warm fabrics that add extra coziness to your winter decor. There are tons of options out there; if you’re looking for something more modern, consider metallic fabrics or faux fur.
