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How to Make Large Rooms Feel Cozy

Large rooms are great for needed space, but they can appear cold and uninviting. Make a big room feel cozy, more comfortable and welcoming by adding texture and warm colors. Choose furniture to scale; avoid small pieces or accessories, as they tend to emphasize space.

Things You'll Need

  • Textured accessories
  • Area rugs
  • Large furniture
  • Large accessories
  • Warm paint colors
  • Incandescent lighting
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose warm colors for your walls. Avoid light or pastel colors that might make a room appear larger. Opt for darker colors that absorb light. Consider warm reds, golden yellows, rich browns, dark peach and terracotta. Also, think about faux paint techniques that add texture to walls, such as Venetian plaster.

    • 2

      Arrange the furniture in a large room into sections to break up a large, empty space. Clearly designate a living room and dining room area, for example, to give the appearance of two smaller rooms. Create specific areas such as a reading nook, game area, work station, child's play area or craft corner. Avoid placing the furniture all around the outside walls of the room.

    • 3

      Create a cozy feeling using texture in fabrics in the room. Use soft, thick area rugs in different sections of a large room. Opt for a couch with material that feels soft to the touch. Choose window curtains or drapes of rich, luxurious material such as velvet or velveteen. Add pillows of warm color and thick fabric to add a feeling of comfort.

    • 4

      Use larger accessories to create a cozier atmosphere. Small knick-knacks will tend to accentuate space, while bigger objects such as large plants will help to make the room feel more cozy. Shelving units are OK, but stick to larger items to display on shelves, such as large photos, big vases or substantial collectible articles.

    • 5

      Select lighting options that create a soft, warm ambiance. Avoid halogen or fluorescent lights, which may appear harsh. Opt for incandescent lighting. Use or install recessed pot lights in the ceiling for a cozy room. Place candles strategically throughout the room to cast a warm glow.