- Let your entryway and front door set the inviting tone first
A bright welcome mat and a quick front stoop clean does wonders to your front door and entryway. For an instant inviting vibe add cute signs by the front door and a big green leafy plant inside of your front door (depending on the space). As soon as your door is opened guests will get a big eyeful of green life.
- Use design tricks to pull eyes through your space
Take a guest’s first view of your space into consideration and pay special attention to designing the farthest point of that view. You can add fun lighting or art in a bold colour, or anything else that will draw attention. This will certainly make them want to explore your space.
- Make your seating arrangement easy and accessible
To get behind the dining table you might not mind moving a chair out of the way, but in such spaces guests don’t normally feel comfortable. Every corner should be made easily accessible without any obstacles.
Avoid cramming over-sized furniture and too many floor pillows. And always make sure to clear all the toys from the floor before the guests arrive.
- Go way overboard with green fluffy plants
Plants can make any room look cozy and welcome. So bring in lots of plants and remember to maintain them well.
- Go overboard with soft textiles, as well
This is very effective. Bring in floor pillows, plush rugs, soft ottomans and deep furniture. For wall art use framed textiles.
- Double layer curtains
Adding another layer to your windows is an instant way to add softness to a space. Two opaque curtains or sheer curtains can cozy up a room by creating an abundance of fabric.
- Use extra-big throw pillows
Use oversize throw pillows for softness. You can just stack them on the floor or use them on a bench or a hard chair.
- Soften hard seating
On hard seating like dining chairs and side chairs try adding soft throw blankets.
- Display Soft Art
Another effective way to soften a room is by hanging wall weaving's and tapestries.
- Soften harsh and straight lines
It is unpleasant to have harsh and straight lines. In such spaces, break up a straight line using round objects like rugs, and pillows.
For adding double softness round rugs are a dramatic way. Also, you can use furniture with rounded edges, round art, and other curved shapes.
- Personalize at least one furniture piece
This is not that difficult. All you need to do is just reupholster them in a fun fabric.
- Attack your stacks
Not only for you but even for your guests stacks of magazines and bills can be a stressful sight! Tuck them away before guests arrive. That is the least you can do to make your place look more inviting.
- Have some good smells floating in the air
Bad smells are really unpleasant. You may not be aware of how your home smells. Just walk in the door after a mini-vacation from it for a day and you will know. Get rid of the odor if it’s unpleasant. For a naturally good smelling home you can use scented candles or potpourri, or grab some fragrant plants.