7 Designer Hacks for Creating Cozy Vibes in Under an Hour

Reach for Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

You may have the bandwidth to repaint a whole room in a rich, warm color palette that screams fall — but more often than not, a coat of fresh paint is a big ask. Ludwig achieves a similar effect by reaching for just one or two rolls of peel-and-stick wallpaper that make a major impact in a tight space, namely a bathroom.

“Fall always inspires me to play with richer color or bolder patterns. Peel-and-stick wallpaper has come a long way in terms of style and affordability,” she says. “If you’ve got a small space like a powder bath or hallway, it’s the perfect spot to experiment — and you might be surprised at just how polished it can look, even if it’s not installed flawlessly.”

 Invest in Velvet

Sure, adding more pillows (especially those that are stuffed appropriately!) into a sitting area amps up the cozy factor — but the finish of the upholstery can dramatically influence the final effect. The soft feel of velvet in a rich, dark color is part of a strategy that Amanda Wiss, founder of New York-based Urban Staging, calls “tweaking ‘The Third Layer.’”

“These are small decor items that transform a home from a furniture showroom into a personal expression,” Wiss explains. “As fall approaches, think about changing out lighter-colored linen quilts, throws, and pillows for richly colored velvet and cotton alternatives.”

Rethink Your Lighting

Switching your lighting is often the last thing you may think of, but the most instantly effective in creating a cozy ambience in both living rooms and bedrooms. Val Nehez, principal designer of Philadelphia-based Studio IQL, advises that swapping bulbs for a warmer tone (2,700 Kelvin or similar) instantly softens any room. 

“Lighting makes a space feel more inviting; warm-toned lamps at lower heights create intimate, mood-driven lighting zones,” Nehez adds. “Pair that with soft, billowy curtains — even over existing blinds — and you’ll add an extra layer of warmth and texture without a major commitment.”

Redesign Your Coffee Table

Adding pops of fall-forward colors is one of the first things you’ll likely tackle in creating a cozy space this season — but designers say there’s more to do than add new throw pillows and blankets into the mix. You can add even more layers of seasonal colors when you think about the display that’s on your coffee table, specifically any large, eye-catching books with beautiful spines and covers. 

Ludwig advises rethinking this book selection to potentially layer in more autumnal colors into the room’s focal center to focus on “stylish accents that nod to fall through color and texture.” 

“Think: a chunky throw blanket, fresh coffee table books, or a travertine catchall tray,” she adds. “These are all chic, elevated updates to a living room that bring in a seasonal feel without slipping into kitsch.”

Layer Throw Rugs 

Forget throw blankets — more is more when it comes to layering throw rugs, even if your living room or bedroom is already carpeted, Nehez explains.

“Layering an area rug, even over carpet or hardwood, grounds the space while softening acoustics,” she adds.

 Dress Your Bedroom in Moody Linens

Believe it or not, linen sheets are actually designed to keep you warm in the colder months as well. The texture they throw off compared with cotton varieties help to create visual interest in a well-dressed cozy bedroom. 

“Linen sheets are excellent for year-round comfort,” says Heather Toolin, principal designer and founder of Austin-based Heather Toolin Designs. “This natural fiber has a unique ability to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, providing just the right level of insulation.”

Choose the Right Scent

There are a plethora of fall-scented candles that are already overwhelming retailers before the first leaf has fallen. But designers believe that some scent families are better than others when it comes to creating inviting, cozy spaces that you’d want to host guests in all day long.

For Tehilla Bennett, founder and principal designer at Teela Bennett Design in Cleveland, it boils down to three scents — earthy sandalwood, warm vanilla, or spicy cinnamon. “The right fragrance ties everything together and makes the whole space feel instantly inviting,” she adds.

For more brilliant scents our editors love, check out this guide to the best candle gifts — including for yourself!