7 Living Room Essentials for a Cosy and Welcoming Space

 The living room is the space where we spend most of our time. That's why it should be cosy, comfortable and inviting. Setting the right mood will make your stay relaxed, and you'll feel welcome. We all have different tastes when it comes to interior design, but there are a few essentials that no living room is complete without. Find cushions for sale, thrift art or grow your own plants to add a personal touch.

Cosy Cushions

source: wallacecotton.com

Homeowners often underestimate the power of cushions. However, they can be a great starting point for decorating your living room. They're a budget-friendly way to add warmth and comfort into the space. It's important to buy a cushion made of high-quality materials because it'll look better and last longer.

Start by deciding on the size. Take a look at the seating area and think about the best size that will work. The most common choice is 45 cm x 45 cm. There are smaller and larger options as well, depending on the space you have. Keep in mind that the main purpose of these cushions is to complement your sofa and make it more comfortable, so don’t overstuff it.

If you decide to buy different sizes, you have plenty of arrangement options. You can mix them, bunch them up or start at one end with the smallest and end on the other side with the largest one. Shape matters as well. Square ones are very common and popular because they look great on any sofa, couch, bench or armchair.

Rectangular-shaped cushions are also an option. They look lovely lying down on sofas and rocking chairs. If you want something more fun, go for box-shaped cushions. They're playful and look extravagant. Many homeowners lean towards bolster pillows. They give the space a classy, timeless appeal. Round cushions are getting back into the game and are taking over the homes.

If you want to create a welcoming and inviting space, choosing the right cushion colour is very important. Make sure they match the colour palette of the room. There's no rule on matching them with the sofa. The best way to incorporate the pillow in the furniture is to either buy the exact same colour or something on the opposite side of the wheel.

You can blend it in or make it stand out, it depends on you and your personal preferences. Don't be afraid to use patterns and textures. One or two textured cushions can make the room stand out. Leather, velvet, silk, faux or even pom-poms can enhance the room’s aesthetics.

Soft Throws

Throws are one of the simplest ways to make a living room feel warmer and more inviting. They can instantly soften the space when you place them over the back of a sofa or leave them casually folded on an armchair. The living room looks lived in. Plus, throws are practical and give you extra warmth on chilly nights.

When it comes to texture, there are several options: knitted, woven and brushed fabrics. They all offer different depths and levels of comfort. Seasonal swaps can also refresh the room, with lighter throws in warmer months and heavier fabrics in winter. For a calmer space, pick a neutral colour. To brighten up the room, go for something bolder or patterned.

Practical Side Tables

Side tables are there to add balance and function to the living room. Position them next to the seating area, and they’ll be a great spot to place drinks, books, remotes or a table lamp. The space becomes more comfortable to use while still feeling well balanced. You can also use them to visually break up larger furniture like sofas. This prevents the room from feeling heavy and flat.

Just like when you buy a cushion, you have to think about the size of the side tables. As a general rule, they shouldn’t go over the height of the armrest because they’ll be impractical to use. Materials matter as well. Timber side tables bring warmth, while metal or stone options can add a modern edge. For a softer look, go for round side tables. For a more structured, classic look, square side tables are the best option.

Inviting Rug

The rug often acts as an anchor in the living room. It ties everything together and creates a clear sense of zone. This is very obvious in open-plan homes. Another great thing about rugs is that they add softness underfoot. Rugs are also an effective way to introduce texture, colour, or pattern without committing to permanent changes.

For a more comfortable and relaxed space, add a plush rug to enhance the cosiness. Flatweave rugs are meant for more casual settings and are easier to clean and maintain. Size is key. The rug should be big enough to sit comfortably under the most important furniture pieces. This keeps the room cohesive and well balanced.

Inspiring Art

Art is all about adding personality and emotion into the living room. It can show your personal taste and be used to add colour or reinforce the existing colour palette. Painting, prints and photography are some of the options that can make an impact. Large statement pieces create impact, while smaller works arranged together can feel personal and curated. Keep in mind that a thoughtful placement will make the room feel balanced.

Plants for Freshness

Plants introduce life and freshness into the living room. They add natural texture and create a relaxed atmosphere. Fill empty corners with large floor plants, add small pots on shelves or side tables and use hanging plants to accentuate blank walls. Choosing low-maintenance varieties keeps things stress-free while still adding visual interest.

Timeless Wall Clock

A wall clock is a functional and decorative piece that will naturally fill an empty wall. Its style will have an impact on the overall look. There are so many options, from minimalist designs to bold pieces that can become centrepieces. The material of the clock should blend in with the rest of the furniture and decor. Make sure you get the right size because if it's too small, it’ll get lost among the rest of the accessories. But if it’s too big, it can overwhelm the space.