Cozy home upgrades 

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    Stylish candle warmer (Anabelle Howze/The Cullman Tribune)

    One month into the new year doesn’t mean it’s time to stop making changes or forming goals. If you’re looking to improve your home this year and add a few cozy upgrades, now is the perfect time to start. From simple, low-cost touches to bigger projects that take a little more time and effort, these ideas can help refresh your space and make it feel more inviting. Hopefully, you’ll find a little inspiration to finally make those home changes you’ve been dreaming of. 

     Blankets and layered, decorative pillows        Nothing is cozier than a warm, fuzzy blanket. Pull your favorite throws out of storage and put them on display. Drape them over the arm of a couch, fold them neatly in a basket or hang them on a decorative ladder for easy access.  When it comes to decorative pillows, layering is key. Start with larger pillows in solid colors at the back, then layer in smaller pillows with patterns, shapes, textures or subtle prints in front. Mixing fabrics like velvet, knit and linen adds texture without overloading the space. Stick to a color palette to keep things intentional rather than cluttered.  

    Display books        Books can double as décor when styled thoughtfully. On shelves, mix vertical rows of books with horizontal stacks to break up the lines. Use small decorative objects, such as candles, vases or framed photos, to create visual balance.  Coffee table books look beautiful when stacked in groups of two or three, topped with a small accent, such as a candle or decorative bowl. Colorful spines and artful covers can give warmth and personality to any room.  Warm lighting: Use lamps instead of overhead lighting       Overhead lighting can feel harsh and overwhelming, especially at the end of a long day. Swapping it out for lamps creates a softer, more relaxing atmosphere. Table lamps, floor lamps and even small accent lamps placed around the room help evenly distribute light.  Choose warm or soft-white bulbs for a golden glow that feels calming and cozy, perfect for winding down, reading or hosting a tranquil evening at home.  Candles, scents and candle warmers        Scent plays a huge role in how a home feels. Candles can instantly create a warm, comforting environment. If open flames make you nervous or if you have young children or pets, candle warmers are a safe and stylish alternative. Many double as lamps, adding both light and fragrance to your space.  Scents to try:  

  • Floral: Jasmine, gardenia lily, bamboo blossom, lavender sage, lilac Spiced: Bourbon, cinnamon, amber, sandalwood Indulgent: Vanilla, pecan brownie, coffee, lemon pound cake 

    •  Splash of color        If you’re considering repainting or adding a pop of color, choosing the right shade can completely transform a space. For a calm and stylish feel, soft neutrals like shell beige or sage green are timeless and soothing.        If you want something bolder but still elegant, try peacock green, deep teal, olive green or plum purple. Warm tones like apricot or burnt and golden oranges bring character and coziness without overpowering the room. Even a single accent wall or painted nook can make a big impact.  “Gallery” art wall        Gallery walls continue to grow in popularity and for good reason. They’re a beautiful way to fill empty wall space while showcasing art, photos and personal memories. Start by choosing a general color scheme or frame style to keep things cohesive.        Lay your pieces out on the floor before hanging to experiment with spacing and arrangement. Gallery walls can be bold and eclectic or clean and minimal; it’s all about reflecting your personality and style.  Rugs        A rug can anchor a room and make it feel instantly warmer. When choosing one, consider both size and placement. In living rooms, the rug should be large enough for at least the front legs of furniture to sit on it. In bedrooms, placing a rug partially under the bed adds softness to your feet when you wake up.       Patterned rugs can hide wear and add interest, while neutral rugs keep things calm and versatile. Layering rugs, like placing a smaller patterned rug over a larger neutral one, is another great way to create texture and depth.  

    Houseplants        Houseplants bring life, color and freshness into a home. When choosing plants, think about lighting and maintenance. Low-light plants like snake plants or pothos are great for beginners. Many plants can also help purify the air, making them both beautiful and beneficial to your home.        If you have pets, be mindful of pet safety and research your plants, as some varieties can be harmful if chewed. Style plants in decorative pots that match your décor, place smaller ones on shelves or tables and use taller plants to fill empty corners or brighten up rooms with high ceilings.  Cozy upgrades don’t have to happen all at once or be drastic. Even small changes, like changing lighting, pulling out some old books or showing off a new throw blanket, can make your home feel warmer and more inviting. Take it one room at a time and enjoy turning your place into one you truly love coming home to. 

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