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15 cosy living room ideas for a snug hideaway

By Ellie Reeves | 3rd October 2024 | 7 min read

When the weather outside is drizzly and grey, it's the perfect opportunity to design a cosy lounge where you can feel snug as a bug. Think warm colours, soft materials, plush textures, and gentle lighting to cocoon yourself in comfort. So, step inside from the chill, grab a blanket, and let these cosy living room ideas inspire you to create the ultimate snuggly retreat. Trust us – you’ll never want to leave!

A cosy cream and mustard living room with multiple light sources; wall lights and a table lamp.A cosy cream and mustard living room with multiple light sources; wall lights and a table lamp.A cosy cream and mustard living room with multiple light sources; wall lights and a table lamp.A cosy cream and mustard living room with multiple light sources; wall lights and a table lamp.

1. Layer your lighting

Say goodbye to harsh overhead lighting in your living room. Instead, layer your lighting. Choose wall lights, table lamps, and flickering candles to cast a warm glow throughout your space. This approach allows you to control the light levels, setting the mood just how you want it. Soft, ambient lighting is key to creating that cosy vibe.

A black living room with shelves in an alcove, decorated with personal items and trinkets.A black living room with shelves in an alcove, decorated with personal items and trinkets.A black living room with shelves in an alcove, decorated with personal items and trinkets.A black living room with shelves in an alcove, decorated with personal items and trinkets.

2. Embrace the trend of intentional clutter

Who says a cosy space has to be minimalist? Lean into the charm of intentional clutter by celebrating your favourite trinkets, books, and treasured photos. Layer your shelves with a delightful mix of knick-knacks, or let your beloved items shine on the coffee table. The secret? Keep it personal. This 'lived-in' vibe not only adds character to your living room but also tells your unique story.

A dark beige living room with panelled walls and a Chesterfield style grey sofa.A dark beige living room with panelled walls and a Chesterfield style grey sofa.A dark beige living room with panelled walls and a Chesterfield style grey sofa.A dark beige living room with panelled walls and a Chesterfield style grey sofa.

3. Wrap your space in warm colours

Warm colours instantly make a space feel inviting. Rich terracotta, soft umber browns, and earthy tones like mustard create a sense of comfort. If a full repaint feels daunting, bring in these shades with accessories like throws, cushions, or curtains for a cosy update.

A cream faux fur rug on the floor of a living room with wood effect laminate.A cream faux fur rug on the floor of a living room with wood effect laminate.A cream faux fur rug on the floor of a living room with wood effect laminate.A cream faux fur rug on the floor of a living room with wood effect laminate.

4. Go for touchable textures

From velvet sofas to woollen blankets, soft materials will add a sense of comfort to your space. Layer textures for the ultimate cosy feel – think a chunky knit throw on a fabric armchair or a faux fur cushion on the sofa. Softness equals snuggle-ready.

A cosy cream living room with wooden flooring, a grey sofa, white armchair, wooden furniture, rugs, and houseplants, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.A cosy cream living room with wooden flooring, a grey sofa, white armchair, wooden furniture, rugs, and houseplants, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.A cosy cream living room with wooden flooring, a grey sofa, white armchair, wooden furniture, rugs, and houseplants, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.A cosy cream living room with wooden flooring, a grey sofa, white armchair, wooden furniture, rugs, and houseplants, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

5. Add warmth with wooden touches

Natural materials like wood have an instantly warming effect. Whether it’s a wooden coffee table, shelves, or picture frames, these earthy textures help create a calm and inviting atmosphere. Go for lighter woods for a Scandinavian-inspired look or dark, rich tones for something more elegant.

A mini gallery wall featuring 5 botanical art prints arranged on a living room wall, adding a touch of nature and style to the space.A mini gallery wall featuring 5 botanical art prints arranged on a living room wall, adding a touch of nature and style to the space.A mini gallery wall featuring 5 botanical art prints arranged on a living room wall, adding a touch of nature and style to the space.A mini gallery wall featuring 5 botanical art prints arranged on a living room wall, adding a touch of nature and style to the space.

6. Personalise your space with wall art

Surrounding ourselves with beauty has a magical way of soothing the soul. Wall art brings that personal touch, transforming your living room into a serene retreat. Choose calming landscapes, gentle hues, or nature-inspired pieces to evoke a sense of peace. Whatever your style, the right art can elevate your space. So, let your walls do the talking and create a home that reflects your spirit.

A selection of houseplants in a pink and blue living space.A selection of houseplants in a pink and blue living space.A selection of houseplants in a pink and blue living space.A selection of houseplants in a pink and blue living space.

7. Bring the outside in

Adding plants to your living room is a simple way to make the space feel more alive and homely. From leafy greens to delicate succulents, houseplants bring tranquillity to the space while helping to purify the air. For added cosiness, choose pots and planters in warm, earthy tones.

Assorted cream and green cushions on a green sofa.Assorted cream and green cushions on a green sofa.Assorted cream and green cushions on a green sofa.Assorted cream and green cushions on a green sofa.

8. Snuggle up with oversized cushions

Make your living room feel extra inviting by scattering oversized cushions across your sofa. Go for different sizes, textures, and fabrics to create a plush and relaxed vibe. Whether you prefer soft velvets, chunky knits, or fluffy faux furs, the more cushions, the better. Perfect for sinking into after a long day!

A dark blue high pile rug in a beige living room with a large beige sofa.A dark blue high pile rug in a beige living room with a large beige sofa.A dark blue high pile rug in a beige living room with a large beige sofa.A dark blue high pile rug in a beige living room with a large beige sofa.

9. Sink your feet into a soft rug

Nothing says cosy like the sensation of sinking your feet into a plush rug. Whether bold and patterned or simple and neutral, a thick, luxurious rug instantly warms up the space - keeping toes toasty and comfort levels high.

A grey armchair with a soft cushion embroidered with the word "cosy," adding a warm and inviting touch to the space.A grey armchair with a soft cushion embroidered with the word "cosy," adding a warm and inviting touch to the space.A grey armchair with a soft cushion embroidered with the word "cosy," adding a warm and inviting touch to the space.A grey armchair with a soft cushion embroidered with the word "cosy," adding a warm and inviting touch to the space.

10. Create your own cosy nook

Carve out a corner of the room for ultimate relaxation. Place a cosy armchair beside a bookshelf and floor lamp for a perfect reading nook. Layer with blankets, throws, and cushions for peak levels of cosiness. It’s the ideal spot to curl up with a book and unwind. For more ideas, check out our guide on creating a cosy reading nook.

A close-up of a grey floor in a white living room, featuring two rugs – a white textured rug and a grey and white diamond print rug – creating a stylish and layered look.A close-up of a grey floor in a white living room, featuring two rugs – a white textured rug and a grey and white diamond print rug – creating a stylish and layered look.A close-up of a grey floor in a white living room, featuring two rugs – a white textured rug and a grey and white diamond print rug – creating a stylish and layered look.A close-up of a grey floor in a white living room, featuring two rugs – a white textured rug and a grey and white diamond print rug – creating a stylish and layered look.

11. Warm up your floors with underfloor heating

For the ultimate comfort, consider adding underfloor heating to your living room. There's nothing quite like the feeling of stepping onto a warm floor, especially during the colder months. It’s an investment that’ll take your cosy living room to the next level, ensuring every corner of the room stays toasty.

A close up of a green velvet footstool in a living room.A close up of a green velvet footstool in a living room.A close up of a green velvet footstool in a living room.A close up of a green velvet footstool in a living room.

12. Kick back with a footstool

After a long day, few things feel as satisfying as sinking into a comfy seat and resting your feet on a footstool. A footstool or ottoman not only adds practicality but also enhances the style of your living room. Consider selecting one that offers hidden storage, allowing you to tuck away extra throws or magazines when they’re not in use.

A corner of a living room featuring a white upholstered armchair with a geometric print cushion, a black tray side table, and a couple of houseplants, creating a stylish and relaxed atmosphere.A corner of a living room featuring a white upholstered armchair with a geometric print cushion, a black tray side table, and a couple of houseplants, creating a stylish and relaxed atmosphere.A corner of a living room featuring a white upholstered armchair with a geometric print cushion, a black tray side table, and a couple of houseplants, creating a stylish and relaxed atmosphere.A corner of a living room featuring a white upholstered armchair with a geometric print cushion, a black tray side table, and a couple of houseplants, creating a stylish and relaxed atmosphere.

13. Keep essentials close with stylish storage

What’s a cosy sitting room without somewhere to put your favourite reads or that mug of tea? Create a space that’s as practical as it is relaxing with plenty of shelving or a coffee table to keep your essentials within arm’s reach. That way, everything you need for a quiet night in is right where you need it.

A sage green living room with thick beige velvet effect curtains.A sage green living room with thick beige velvet effect curtains.A sage green living room with thick beige velvet effect curtains.A sage green living room with thick beige velvet effect curtains.

14. Choose luxurious curtains for extra warmth

Thick, luxurious curtains not only help keep the warmth in during the winter months but also make your space feel extra snug. Look for heavy fabrics like velvet or lined cotton in deep, rich shades that complement the room’s colour scheme. When drawn, they create the ultimate cosy cocoon.

A close-up of a "wild meadow" scented candle in an orange living room, adding a warm and inviting touch to the space.A close-up of a "wild meadow" scented candle in an orange living room, adding a warm and inviting touch to the space.A close-up of a "wild meadow" scented candle in an orange living room, adding a warm and inviting touch to the space.A close-up of a "wild meadow" scented candle in an orange living room, adding a warm and inviting touch to the space.

15. Delight all the senses

A truly cosy living room engages all your senses, and scent plays a powerful role in shaping our mood. Enhance your space with gentle aromas that invite relaxation. Candles, diffusers, or wax melts in calming fragrances like vanilla, sandalwood, or lavender can instantly create a warm atmosphere. This simple touch adds an extra layer of comfort, transforming your living room into a serene sanctuary.

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  • Pink and white tiled wall with white ceramic pot, glass mimosa and blossom scented candle and wooden chopping board.

    @our-bears-home

  • Neutral office with wooden desk and chair, abstract black and white art print and large rustic concrete vase.

    @ourneutralground

  • White living room with light grey sofa and white textured cushions.

    @thethomashome

  • Wooden panel and rustic concrete vase filled with dried flowers.

    @womblescrafts

  • Large candle filled with oranges and leaves on top of a couple of books on a coffee table.

    @the-king-home

  • White bedroom with black chest of drawers and black and white abstract art print and white circular vase.

    @number.26_

Digital Content Writer Ellie Reeves

Ellie Reeves

Digital Content Writer

Ellie is a content writer with over six years of experience in home décor and DIY. She’s on a mission to help people create a home they love. Big on dopamine décor and colourful accessories, she’s all about adding personality to every space...Read more