How To Make Your Office Cozy [easy steps to follow].

Whether your office is in the corner of your living room like mine is, an office with cold walls and a sterile atmosphere, or you are fortunate enough to have an entire room where you can close the door.

You likely want to make your work space feel just a bit more cozy and inviting so you can enjoy your work a bit more.

I could tell you the exact items that will make your office feel as cozy as a hibernating bear curled up on a rug in the winter but our tastes are likely different…

So I am going to give you the key scenes or feelings that invoke the feeling of cozy as well as give you some exact items that will help you create a cozy space for you.

Cozy is a feeling, not the things you put in a room. Pay attention to how YOU FEEL in that room.

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Cozy is a feeling, not things

The whole goal is to create that cozy feeling. My aunt’s home is extremely cozy but the decor is a bit eclectic even though it’s not too busy. So why does it still feel cozy? It’s the spirit of the home.

What pops to mind is a room that makes you feel relaxed, safe, and warm right? So think about the things that give you those three feelings.

You don’t have to be a designer. You just simply need to be able to look at something and say yes this does it for me or No it doesn’t.

Either way is fine. If you’re not sure. Look at something, pause, and ask yourself “How did that make me feel?”

I am the type that doesn’t have the perfect picture in her mind of what she wants but when I see it I know, THATS IT! — Taking your office redesign slowly and with intention is going to get you the best results.

Less Is More

I know, I know, this is a hard one for some people and I have always been a “get rid of it” type of person.

BUT one area where I went wrong early on was I would leave decor up that I didn’t like or something that just didn’t fit with the mood I was going for because I didn’t have anything to replace it with.

Once you have a clean slate to work with you can slowly add the pieces in.

Having space for the room to breathe a little will help you see the spots where you do need something and where you don’t. Believe it or not, a blank wall isn’t a bad thing.

Organize Your Desk And Avoid Clutter

Having a clutter-free and organized desk is essential for creating a cozy and productive office space. Here are some practical desk organization ideas to help you keep things neat and tidy:

1. Use cable clips: Tangled cords can create a messy and distracting environment. Invest in cable clips to keep your cords organized and out of sight, giving your desk a clean and streamlined look.

2. Keep the space clean and neat: Take a few minutes at the end of each day to tidy up your desk. Clear away any unnecessary papers, put away office supplies, and wipe down surfaces to create a fresh and inviting workspace.

3. Set aside daily decluttering time: Designate a specific time each day, even if it’s just ten minutes, to clear out any office junk. File away documents, recycle old papers, and remove any items that are not needed, helping you maintain a clutter-free environment. — This could even be applied to your digital workspace. If you are a digital creator you probably download a lot of images you will likely not use again. Get them off your desktop or file them away for a later launch. 

By implementing these desk organization ideas and avoiding clutter, you’ll create a more inviting and productive office environment.

Top Things That Add A Cozy Feel To Any Room

Here are some top… “features” (I guess would be the best word I can think of) to add to your office that will help make it feel cozy.

• Texture – Pillows, notebooks, a sweater on the back of your chair, or throw blankets
• Warm Light – It can be as simple as a fake candle.
• Soft or neutral colors. – You may love bold colors but they make the brain have to work harder to process them. Give your mind a break and have small decor pieces to add color but don’t have huge times or paint walls a bright color.
• Greenery [or the impression of life in the room]

How to Add Texture To Your Office

To make your office space extra cozy, don’t underestimate the power of patterns and textures. They can add a fun and inviting element to your workspace while still maintaining a professional look.

When selecting patterns for your office decor, it’s important to strike a balance between visual interest and productivity. Opt for patterns that aren’t too busy or distracting, such as subtle geometric designs or classic stripes. These patterns can bring a touch of coziness without overwhelming your workspace.

Textures also play a crucial role in creating a cozy atmosphere. Consider incorporating textured elements like plush cushions, faux fur throws, or woven baskets. These tactile touches not only add warmth but also provide a comforting feel to your surroundings.

While patterns and textures can add coziness, it’s important to be mindful of color choices. Avoid overusing pastel colors, as they can create a too-soft or dreamy atmosphere that may not promote productivity. Instead, balance out patterns and textures with a neutral color palette and add pops of color sparingly for more energy.

By incorporating patterns and textures into your office decor, you can create a cozy and inviting workspace that still maintains a professional and productive atmosphere. So go ahead, have fun with your design choices, and make your office the perfect place to work.

You can add texture in all kinds of different ways. The texture of your desk, candles, baskets, throw blankets, a soft sweater hanging over your office chair…

Chalkboards or pinboards are another way to add a more relaxed feel to your office as well.

• Swap out your plastic trash can for a basket or textured container for trash.
• If you have the option, have a large basket in the corner that could hold throw blankets you could have within reach.
• Use a textured ceramic container for writing utensils instead of an ugly plastic holder.
• A small throw pillow sitting on your office chair.

Style The Bookshelves

If bookshelves are your only storage option this can be tricky. Your bookshelf can detract from the cozy office vibe you are going for or add to it.

When it comes to creating a cozy office atmosphere, one often overlooked element is the bookshelf. Not only are bookshelves practical for storing books and work-related documents, but they can serve as a versatile decor piece that adds warmth and personality to any space.

To style your bookshelves in a way that enhances the cozy atmosphere of your office, consider incorporating a mix of objects that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. But don’t overstuff the shelves. Leave breathing room.

Alongside your favorite books, you can display potted plants to bring a touch of nature indoors, frames with family photos for a personal touch, or even stylish pottery.

Remember, the key is to strike a balance between functionality and style. Use baskets or storage boxes on the lower shelves to keep clutter at bay while adding a touch of organization.

By styling your bookshelves with care and attention to detail, you’ll not only have a practical storage solution but also a beautiful focal point in your cozy office.

How to Add Warmth To Your Office

Warmth can be anything from lighting, wall color, or simply adding candles. If you are able to do a whole room redo then by all means paint your walls a warm but neutral color.

Here is why I caution you on not going with a bright color or a very distinctive color.

It is very hard to change up the décor style of a room if the color is not flexible. If you are like me and want to freshen up a room at least every spring you are not going to have as much wiggle room. Cotton Stem Blog has some great tips for picking a farmhouse neutral color.

Soft Carpet Or Area Rug For Warmth

Adding a soft carpet or area rug to your office space can do wonders for creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. Not only does it provide an extra layer of comfort under your feet.

Beyond the practical benefits, a soft carpet or area rug can also add an elegant touch to the interior of your office. It instantly transforms a plain and sterile environment into one that feels inviting and comfortable.

The addition of a soft and plush surface to walk on can soften each step you take, making your office a more pleasant place to spend your time.

Warmth Through Lighting – Add A Side Lamp

Creating a cozy work environment in your office is all about paying attention to the details. While natural light is essential, adding additional lighting sources can enhance the overall ambiance and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. One simple and effective way to achieve this is by adding a side lamp to your office desk. Or a floor lamp in the corner.

A side lamp not only serves as a functional light source but also adds a touch of style and personality to your office. When selecting a side lamp, choose one that complements your design aesthetic and enhances the overall color scheme of your workspace. Whether you prefer a modern and sleek design or a more vintage and eclectic look, there is a side lamp out there to fit your style.

In terms of brightness, aim for a side lamp that provides enough light for tasks without being overly harsh or glaring. Adjustable brightness settings are a great feature to have, as they allow you to customize the lighting to your specific needs throughout the day.

Light Scented Candle

I LOVE candles. Not only do they bring a touch of warmth and relaxation to your workspace, but they can also enhance your focus and productivity.

Lighting scented candles in your office can transform the entire atmosphere, making it feel more like a cozy retreat rather than just a place to work. The pleasant aroma released by the candles can have a soothing effect on your mind, helping you feel more calm and centered as you go about your tasks.

Not only do scented candles create a cozy work environment, but they can also have a positive impact on your productivity. The inviting scent can help to eliminate distractions and clear your mind, allowing you to stay focused on your work. Whether you prefer energizing scents like citrus or calming scents like lavender, there’s a fragrance out there for everyone.

Consider trying unique scented candles like “Warm Vanilla Sugar” for a comforting and sweet aroma, “Sandalwood and Amber” for a cozy and earthy scent, or “Fresh Linen” for a clean and refreshing ambiance. Experiment with different scents to find the one that enhances your productivity and creates the perfect atmosphere in your office.

So go ahead and light up a scented candle in your office today, and experience the benefits of a cozy work environment with a pleasant aroma. 

Cozy Inviting Colors

When it comes to creating a cozy and inviting office space, choosing the right colors is key. The color scheme you select can greatly impact the overall ambiance and mood of your workspace. To create a warm and cozy atmosphere, consider incorporating neutral and soft tones.

Neutral colors such as beige, cream, and soft greens can help to create a calming and relaxing environment. These colors are versatile and can easily be combined with other warm hues to add depth and richness to your office space. Consider using warm neutral colors like light brown, caramel, or warm gray as accent colors to create a more inviting feel.

In addition to neutral colors, nature-inspired prints or accent wallpapers can also add a cozy touch to your office. Use wallpapers with natural motifs like flowers, leaves, or landscapes to bring a sense of the outdoors inside. This can help to create a soothing and peaceful environment that promotes productivity and relaxation.

Remember, when choosing colors for your office, consider the natural light available in the space. Cool colors may work well in spaces with ample natural light but again cool is not as warm and inviting. Warm colors can help to counterbalance the harshness of fluorescent lighting. Experiment with different color combinations and evaluate how they make you feel in the space.

By selecting cozy and inviting colors for your office, you can create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes work feel less like a chore and more like a cozy retreat.

How to make your office cozy with greenery

Greenery gives the impression of life in a room and invites you in. Whether you realize it or not humans are always watching out for their well-being. Self-preservation is any living thing’s first concern.

So when you see thriving life. Your brain thinks “hey this is a safe place to be with plenty of resources”.

Adding even a small faux plant will cozy up even the worst office space.

Never worry about having a green thumb. They will stay alive no matter how bad you are at plant care…(don’t feel bad, I can grow anything outside or house plants but succulents… I am terrible at)

Bonus Cozy Office Points

Add a small reading or sitting nook.

If you have the space add a small reading chair to the corner of your office that will able you to get up from your desk and have a different place to work.

Sitting at the same space for days on end will not do you any favors trust me.

Add personal or hobby items.

If you are like me and run a rabbitry or small farm you could add things that have a hint of country.

Add pictures or things that remind you of home and your loved ones.

But remember to keep the color pallet cohesive. If you start going all over the board you will be back to your visual battleground vibes. Even on picture walls, I try to choose photos with similar colors so it doesn’t seem visually distracting.

How To Make Your Office Cozy Quick Swaps

Ok so assuming you can’t do anything about the wall color or large pieces of furniture here are some ideas that are easy to do and you are not making big permanent changes.

• Clear the desk and anything visual that won’t be covered. IE open bookshelves or your desktop. — Put as many things in drawers as possible. YOu don’t want to walk in and your brain freaks out trying to figure out what to do with everything it has to process. This is the first key to creating something cozy.
• Tuck all of the cords away that would distract from the décor. (remember less is more. Even the stuff that has to be there will distract from the visuals.
• Choose any one item to add texture over the chair that you will work in. Whether it is a neutral sweater or throw blanket.
• Minimize what needs to be out on the desk and find accent-colored notebooks, or writing utensil holders for accent pieces.
• Add a candle or two in an arrangement that will be in your line of site.
• Add a faux plant to add life to your desk. Bonus points if you choose real.
• CHOOSE WHAT FLOWS TOGETHER. Don’t pick things that are different in theme or style. If you want to try different ones out totally fine. But pick one, build out the look, and go with that then try something different if you don’t like it. Farmhouse is different from vintage. Make sense?
• Use collections of three and stager the height of each item. Don’t just put things together that are the same height. That looks messy.

All in all, I can’t tell you what is cozy because it can be different for everyone. As you are putting your cozy office together though out the process pause and ask yourself. Does this FEEL right? Is it warm, soft, and inviting?

If you don’t see something you like when you are shopping don’t buy it. As you create your office take the time to find what makes you stand speechless as you look at it.

Put a Vision Board In sight

One of the most effective ways to make your home office cozy and inspiring is by incorporating a vision board. A vision board is a visual representation of your goals, dreams, and aspirations. By placing it within sight in your workspace, you can constantly remind yourself of what you are working towards, providing motivation and inspiration.

Creating a vision board is a fun and creative process. Start by collecting images, quotes, and affirmations that align with your personal goals and aspirations. These can be cutouts from magazines, printed from the internet, or even handwritten notes. Arrange these elements on a board or a corkboard in a way that resonates with you and sparks inspiration.

The beauty of a vision board is that it can be highly personalized. You can include images that represent your ideal career, personal relationships, health goals, or even travel destinations. The possibilities are endless. The key is to choose visuals that truly resonate with you and instill a sense of motivation.

By placing your vision board within sight in your home office, you are effectively using it as a tool to visualize success and keep your goals at the forefront of your mind. It serves as a constant reminder of what you are working towards, infusing your workspace with positivity and inspiration.

So, go ahead and put your vision board within sight in your home office. Let it serve as a daily dose of motivation and inspiration, fueling your productivity and helping you achieve your goals.

Comfortable Will Keep You Working Longer

Having a cozy office is great but you also need it to be comfortable and supportive to work. Having things like a supportive chair and your devices at an angle that don’t allow you to slouch will help you stay working longer.

Comfortable Chair For Work

When it comes to creating a cozy and comfortable office environment, one essential feature to consider is a comfortable chair for work. A chair that provides the right support and comfort can make a world of difference in your overall work experience.

First and foremost, look for a chair with adjustable height. This allows you to customize the chair’s position according to your height and preference, ensuring that you maintain a good posture throughout the day.

Lumbar support is another crucial feature to consider. A chair with proper lumbar support helps maintain the natural curve of your spine, preventing back pain and discomfort. Look for chairs that have adjustable lumbar support so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.

Consider the upholstery material of the chair as well. Opt for chairs made from natural materials like fabric or leather, as they tend to be more breathable and comfortable, especially during long working hours. They will also add to the look and feel of the room instead of detracting from it like most office chairs do.

Lastly, prioritize ergonomic chairs. These chairs are specifically designed to promote good posture and reduce strain on your body. They often come with features like adjustable armrests, seat depth, and tilt mechanisms, ensuring that you can find the most comfortable position for your work.

Investing in a comfortable chair for work is an investment in your well-being and productivity. So, consider the adjustable height, lumbar support, and natural materials when selecting your cozy and comfortable office chair.

Here is a nice office chair that still gives support but still has some style.

Setup a Flexible Workstation

Setting up a flexible workstation is a fantastic way to create a cozy and comfortable office environment. By allowing you to switch seamlessly between sitting and standing positions, a flexible workstation ensures that you can find the perfect balance between productivity and comfort. Here are two great options for creating a flexible workstation:

Adjustable desks are a game-changer when it comes to workspace comfort. These desks can be easily customized to your desired height, allowing you to sit or stand throughout the day. By enabling you to change positions and avoid prolonged sitting, adjustable desks help reduce the strain on your back and neck, promoting better posture and overall well-being.

Alternatively, if you already have a desk you love, consider investing in adjustable desk risers. These nifty additions can be placed on top of your existing desk, instantly transforming it into a flexible workstation. With adjustable height settings, desk risers offer a cost-effective solution that promotes comfort and flexibility.

No matter which option you choose, a flexible workstation is a surefire way to make your office space more cozy and accommodating. By allowing you to switch between sitting and standing positions with ease, you can enjoy a more ergonomic and comfortable working environment.

Incorporating a flexible workstation will not only boost your productivity but also promote a healthier work routine. 

Clean Air Equals Productivity

This one is weird but I find it to be extremely helpful.

In order to create a cozy office space, it’s important to prioritize clean air. Not only does it contribute to a healthy working environment, but it also plays a crucial role in boosting productivity. 

To ensure clean air in your office, start by promoting proper ventilation. Open windows whenever possible to let fresh air circulate throughout the space. This simple step can greatly improve air quality and create a refreshing atmosphere.

Another effective way to enhance air quality is by incorporating air-purifying plants. Not only do they add a touch of greenery to your workspace, but they also naturally filter out toxins and release oxygen, making the air cleaner and fresher.

Investing in an air conditioner can also make a significant difference. Not only does it regulate the temperature, but it also filters the air, removing pollutants and allergens. This can greatly improve air quality, creating a more conducive environment for work.

If the air in your office tends to be dry, consider using an air humidifier. It adds moisture to the air, preventing dryness and improving overall comfort. This can have a positive impact on productivity, as dry air can cause discomfort and hinder concentration. There are also some great air purifiers that don’t contribute to the room temperature and are great if you have house pets.