Divide the Space
When living room floors are expansive, the space can look and feel cold and uninviting. Area rugs effectively separate and focus areas of a room, defining conversation or activity areas in the room.

A 9’ by 12’ rug will usually work well in an average-size living room, but you may need a larger one for a particularly large room. Or, you may consider using separate areas rugs to divide the space into two or more areas.

You could also try grounding a space with a ceiling fan or some kind of fun, whimsical hanging chandelier that has warm fabric shades or colored glass. Place it over a gathering area or over the cocktail table to create a conversation space.

Create Focal Points with Furniture
When creating a cozy space, first define a focal point. For some people, this is the fireplace, and for others, it’s the television—whatever you feel is most fitting for how you use your space. Once you pick your focal point, arrange your furniture with conversation in mind to give your living room a feeling of intimacy. You don’t want guests to feel like they have to shout across the room to talk to one another.

Have as much space as possible on the sides of the room, trying not to have the seating furniture running along the walls. This will keep the room looking spacious yet cozy.

Warm up with Accessories

In addition to warm wall colors in a large living room, well-picked accessories can really add warmth and make the room feel more inviting. Try to find a painting or other artwork that contains colors that coordinate pillows, rugs and accessories so the room makes a bold statement with a designer edge.

  • Accessories and art in rich reds, yellows and shades of orange are great choices when striving to make a great room feel cozy.
  • Accent pillows help to bring in fun colors, patterns, shapes and textures to the room.
  • Quilts and afghans draped over chairs or the back of the sofa add a homey feel.
  • Candle arrangements on the coffee table or end table can add a relaxed mood to the room.
  • Plants and tall potted trees that complement the height of a high or vaulted ceiling can both warm up and fill the space.