(Collaborative post by another author) Cool greys and sleek blacks might be all the rage in interior design, and white really does go with everything. But in the home, these stylish shades can feel cold and clinical, and do little to instil a warm and inviting atmosphere.

If you want to make your house feel more like a home and less like a posh waiting room, take a look at these five interior design tips to cosy up the vibe. 

Cosy Blankets

Throws and blankets are an excellent addition to your living spaces. Take your time choosing something super soft that you can wrap up in to keep warm when the winter months kick in. Stockists such as Linens Limited have an excellent range of cosy bedspreads, throws, and blankets to make your home feel more inviting.  

Blankets and throws are also a great way to introduce a variety of different textures into a space – and who doesn’t love curling up under a fluffy blanket on the sofa with a hot chocolate to watch a movie?

Change Your Curtains 

Certain fabrics make a room feel more homely and switching out your sheer hangings or blinds for velvet drapes can be one way to completely alter the feel of a room. 

Not only do heavy fabrics make you feel warm, but when you choose curtains with a thermal lining, it will also help you keep the heat in on those cold winter nights – these additions have the added benefit of helping with your utility costs!

New Doors

White doors are a popular choice, but the brightness of them can feel harsh. Consider trading up your white paint for a stained oak.

The experts at Oakwood Doors have a great range of wooden internal doors to give your home the warm, rustic look. 

You’ve probably never given your internal doors much thought, but changing them up can have a real impact on the feel of a whole room! 

Mismatched Furniture 

Who says that your furniture has to match? Just because it matches when you walk around Ikea doesn’t mean that you’re obligated to replicate this in your own home.

Adorn your room with pieces from antique shops and car-boot sales. When you mix up your furniture, you’ll create an environment that feels well-loved and endearingly lived-in – it works for all those quaint, little independent tea shops. 

Scented Candles 

Homeliness isn’t just about how your home looks, but its impact on all the senses – including the nose. 

Yankee Candle have dominated the scented candle market for more than fifty years, and while they are far from the only home fragrance providers, they certainly have a vast range for you to choose from.

If you’re ready to move away from those harsh lines and cool colours, then consider the rustic aesthetic when you redecorate. When your home feels inviting, you’ll find it far easier to put your feet up and relax at the end of a long day.

What changes have you made to make your house a more homely place to live? Share your tips in the comments below!