As the colder weather arrives, we’re gravitating inside to hunker down piles of books and cups of tea. Of course, this season feels much easier to surrender to if you have a cosy living space to curl up in.
When it comes to what makes a space cosy, the answer may vary depending on who you ask. For some, it involves a roaring fire and a glass of mulled wine; for others, it’s about a comfortable armchair and a view of the ocean. But whether you’re spending a rainy day in an old country cottage or a luxurious alpine apartment, a sense of cosyness can be created in any space that finds a blend of comfort, warmth and beauty.
If you’re unsure of where to start, the following homes are guaranteed to provide plenty of inspiration.

This cosy corner is the perfect place for curling up with a good book on a rainy day. The inviting armchair is simply an Ikea chair, which has been cleverly customised with blue cover from Bemz.

Boasting serene views over the Hawkesbury River, this cosy window seat occupies prime position in this lovely lounge room. A well positioned sconce light and side table with enough room for a mug ensures the space is comfortable as well as functional.

With a love of traditional style, a selection of stylish antiques and comfortable armchairs bring warmth and character into this cosy sitting room. The fireplace is simply a delightful bonus.

With an abundance of comfortable seating, carefully curated decor and an incredible oversized ottoman, this Hamptons style living room is like something out of a Nancy Meyers movie—the epitome of comfort.
“It’s a really warm, cosy and intimate room despite its scale. As with my other rooms, it has a combination of timber, fabric, painted furniture, metal, wicker and glass,” says Melinda.

This sunny sitting area brings a sense of warmth to this South Yarra home even on greyer days through its joyful pops of yellow.
“Yellow is a colour that sparks joy for Barb (homeowner), so we introduced it through the rug and fabrics,” explains interior designer Amy.

In this farmhouse style lounge room, an occasional chair offers a coveted place for the family to take turns enjoying the warmth from the fireplace. The cushions and throw from Adairs add to the warmth as does the textured ‘Sandared’ ottoman from Ikea.

With its dark timber built-in shelves and shades of dark grey, this moody living space has a warm, cocooning feeling. “The rooms that did not receive as much natural light were made darker,” says interior designer, Melissa. “It worked beautifully.”
“We also used wall lights, feature lights and lamps throughout the apartment to create mood and ambience.”

After spending days on the slopes, this alpine apartment provides the perfect space for a family of five to hunker down in. In the living room, warm biscuit tones add to the sanctuary-like feeling.

Surrounded by rolling countryside, this modern barn home’s living room is made for cosy winter living.
“The house is very angular, so the circular couch really softens the space and creates a sense of gathering,” says homeowner Kristy.