The Art of Layering: Tips for Cozy and Chic Home Interiors

No matter what design direction you gravitate towards, layering is key when it comes to getting cozy and chic in your home. Layering is the art of putting things on top of other things that create depth, texture and visual interest resulting in a space that feels inviting, stylish and thoughtfully curated. Decorating your living room, bedroom, or anywhere is going to be much more exciting when you layer your dope statement wall hangings.

In this guide I will show you how to master the art of layering for cosy and chic home interiors.

  1. Always Begin with a Neutral Foundation

If you are layering a space, then it is with a neutral base. Whites, grays, beige or soft pastels are so neutral, they’re affecting, but in a calming way – and you want to create a versatile backdrop so that other elements can shine. Starting with a neutral palette on your walls, or on bigger furniture pieces (think sofas), or flooring will set up a basis for adding all the layers of color, texture and pattern.

Take, for instance, a neutral colored sofa – it is classic and timeless, a dependable anchor from which you can stack up more active layers. From here you can layer accent colors with cushions, rugs or throws to warmen and interest.

  1. Mix and Match Textures

I think layering different textures throughout your space is one of the best ways to create a cozy, chic look. Textures can help add dimension and give your home a tactile appeal that can invite your guests and leave a visual impression. Balance is key — you’ll want to mix the soft fabrics such as velvet, cotton or linen, with the tough textures like leather, metal and wood.

Begin by throwing pillows and blankets in different fabrics. Like for example, a chunky knit throw can get along with velvet or silk cushions for that luxurious theme. A pair of a leather chair matched with rich wool rug on the floor makes the room contrasting and the feeling of the depth. From the ever attached and wrapped up knit scarf to the important act of including tactile textures like woven baskets, ceramic pots, metallic pieces etc to give a touch of sophistication.

  1. Layer Rugs for Extra Warmth

Rugs are some of the best ways to furnish cosy layered interiors. Forget the one rug; layer two or more for visual interest and warmth instead. A great way to get started is with a large, neutral rug as your base and then a smaller patterned or textured rug on top as your focus and layer. That adds much needed character to the room without over powering the space.

In large rooms or open plan spaces, where such areas have to be defined, layering rugs is particularly successful. To get cozy and defined zones within the space try placing a smaller rug under a coffee table or a reading nook.

  1. Add Statement Lighting

Lighting is very important in layering, not only for its use, but as with other materials, for setting the mood of the space. To make cozy and chic, hit up different sources of light such as overhead lights, table lamps, floor lamps even candles to make it warm and dweller.

When layering lighting choose a mix of light sources of different intensities. While a statement chandelier or pendant light can make a huge statement in the room as a focal point, soft table lamps or string lights can soften and make a room seem cozy. Layered lighting brings in a more inviting, more intimate feel, that makes your home feel chic but relaxed.

  1. Add in some Art and personal Touches.

Layer art and decor that’s personal your style. You can hang a bit of everything: framed artworks, prints, photographs all bring some visual interest and a bit of your own personality to the space. A big focal piece of art can ground the room, though adding smaller pieces or gallery walls can add further scope of colour and texture.

As well as artwork, don’t forget items like vases, candles and decorative trays. Then layer these personal touches of tables and shelves, atop mantel, to add warmth and intimacy to the room. From a favorite family photo, to a well crafted vase, to that unique sculpture you got at that estate sale: These items can contribute to take the space you’ve created to a place that feels lived and curated.

  1. Add a dash of Life and Freshness.

There’s nothing better than plants in your house to inject life, color and texture. First off, they are a way to introduce a natural element into your space. Secondly, they serve as a means to layering beauty and vitality into your interiors. Even if you go for large statement plants, like fiddle – leaf figs, or small plants like succulents, you can use plants to lead through your room and throughout the entire house if you are lucky enough to have the space, providing a refreshing layer to a space that is otherwise cozy and chic.

Take a look at different size and types of plants to incorporate into your space. Indoor trees can create a dramatic focal point in a large space or, in smaller spaces, potted plants can be layered onto shelves, coffee tables and windowsills to add texture to a room. Stylish planters in modern, minimalist designs will give you a more chic look, while a rustic woven basket will add a bit of boho feel to your space.

7 Color palettes to mix and match

You shouldn’t think that layering colors means every single thing has to match. Different shades and tones should be mixing and matching to have a chic but more dynamic look. However, keep to a color palette and stick to that throughout, but don’t be afraid to introduce different shades and hues within that palette on other textures and surfaces. Instead, try soft neutrals with richer jewel tones, such as emerald or navy; or pastels with mellow earthy tones to create an elegant inviting look.

Conclusion

Layering is the art of layering, adding dimension, texture, very much personality to your home but not overwhelming it. You can create an interior that is cozy, chic and definitely yours by adding furniture, textiles, lighting and decor in layers. Layering throws, or mixing textures, or adding canvas art to your walls, it all comes down to the same thing: balance and harmony. These tips will help you turn your house into a welcoming home with a stylish but warm and welcoming feel that doesn’t look like a catalog.

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