Cozy Up Your Home This Winter: Designer Tips for Comfort

We understand that winter can make you want to hibernate. With the new year upon us, it’s the perfect time to refresh your space. Making your home cozy is a priority as we embrace January.

As we prepare for cozy winter days ahead, we’re focused on enhancing comfort without sacrificing style. Curious about how to achieve that cozy vibe? We consulted three talented designers—Katie Hodges, Julie Van Daele of Well Received, and Erik Garcia of Maison Trouvaille. They all agree on one key principle: Emphasize texture.

Featured image of Camille’s bedroom by Michelle Nash.

Steps to Create a Cozy Home Environment

“Cozy means entering a space and immediately wanting to kick off your shoes, sink into a comfy chair, and relax,” says Garcia. “You’ll want to linger there all day.” We wholeheartedly agree.

According to Hodges, texture is essential for cozying up a space, but lighting also plays a vital role. If you lack a fireplace, she suggests using staggered candle pillars to bring warmth and intimacy to your environment.

Variety in texture is crucial, too. Daele emphasizes combining knits, faux furs, and velvet, while also highlighting the importance of scent. Think incense, candles, and essential oils to enhance relaxation. Garcia adds, “Scents can create a calm and luxurious atmosphere.”

If you’re eager to add texture but unsure how to maintain a chic look, check out these expert tips:

• Layer contrasting textured pillows in a unified color scheme on your couch.
• Throw a cozy blanket over your couch and armchairs.
• Add an accent rug on top of your existing larger rug.

Cozy Essentials for Your Home This Season

Excited to implement these ideas? Here are some favorite items to help your home radiate coziness.

Jenni Kayne Mohair Throw

If your space feels chilly, drape a textured throw over it for an instant cozy boost. This mohair throw is a splurge, but it will endure many winters.

Anthropologie Aurora Candlestick

Candles are ideal for setting a warm ambiance, and this timeless textured holder enhances any scene.

H&M Ceramic Candlestick

This sculptural ceramic candlestick, crafted from natural materials, adds warmth to your decor and is budget-friendly.

Sense Island Taper Candles

Opt for muted, colorful candles to bring subtle warmth to your living space instead of sticking to classic whites.

Haven Well Within Textured Cotton Throw

Looks lovely and feels delightful—nothing embodies cozy quite like this blanket, perfect for weekend relaxation.

The Citizenry Pasado Alpaca Throw

Layering your textures and colors with soft shades will enhance the cozy atmosphere.

Andrej Urem Lace Candle

Candles not only warm up a room with their glow, but they also elevate tables with unique designs—this lace candle is a favorite!

MarneyAsh U Shaped Candle

For a unique decor piece, choose this sculptural candle that doubles as art—just don’t burn it!

Farmhouse Pottery Pantry Candlestick

Farmhouse Pottery always delivers on cozy vibes; these candleholders create a warm atmosphere.

Apparatus Candle Blocks

A splurge worth considering, these statement pieces are sure to make a lasting impression in your home.

Its Thyme Kouple Origami Essence Incense Holder

Minimalist design paired with soothing colors makes this a stunning addition to a coffee table or mantel.

Tennen Spring Arroyo Cone Incense

For a cozy ambiance, Daele recommends these Tennen cones for a calming aroma throughout your home.

The Citizenry Catalina Boucle Bolster Pillow

Creating a cozy atmosphere isn’t limited to the living room; this bolster pillow pairs beautifully with throw pillows for Netflix nights.

CB2 16" Mauve Mongolian Sheepskin Pillow

Can you think of a better snuggle buddy than this plush Mongolian pillow? We can’t!

CB2 18” Shorn Sheepskin Camel Pillow

CB2 offers fantastic decor at reasonable prices, and this stunning sheepskin throw pillow is a perfect cozy addition.

CB2 Chunky Ivory Knit Pillow

Mix textures with various materials and patterns to enhance your space’s design.

Quince Washed Velvet Pillow Cover

Layer patterns with simple neutrals to create a balanced look in your room.

Hollywood at Home Manta in Ivory Alpaca Throw

Alpaca wool throws are timeless; they only get better with age.

Burke Decor Niko Woven Pillow in Dark Brown

This pillow features lovely stitching details that add a homemade feel, plus its textured wool fabric is wonderfully warm.

Otherland Rattan Candle

A scented candle is a go-to decor piece for inviting cozy vibes into your home.

P.F. Candle Co. Black Fig Candle

With its floral and sweet fragrance, this candle combines earthy and spicy notes, perfect for the colder months.

West Elm Lush Velvet Pillow Cover

Rich velvet adds luxurious texture, making this pillow an eye-catching addition to any sofa or bed.

Shopbop @Home Twist Candle

Add a whimsical taper candle to your decor for a fun yet functional accent.

Elemense x Hasami Porcelain Incense Burner

Every detail of this incense burner is thoughtfully designed. Burning incense becomes even more soothing with this elegant piece.

Pottery Barn Faux Fur Ombre Throws

Achieve a cozy look by draping the softest throw over your couch for maximum comfort.