How to make large spaces feel cosier

Large rooms come with endless possibilities - which is both exciting (and a little intimidating). Sure, you’ve got the space, but how do you make it feel cosy instead of empty? The secret is in creating zones and using design tricks to bring everything together. Whether you’re working with an oversized living room, a lofty bedroom, or an open-plan space, here’s how you can make it feel snug and inviting - without losing that airy, spacious quality. 

Create distinct zones

One of the easiest ways to make a large room feel more comfortable is by breaking it into smaller, purposeful zones. Rather than treating the whole space as one giant area, give it definition by creating separate spots for different activities. For example, you can use a large, plush rug to anchor a seating area and visually separate it from the dining space. Floating furniture - like positioning a sofa and chairs in the middle of the room instead of against the walls - also helps define a cosy nook. To add even more structure, consider using open shelving, a decorative screen, or tall plants to create subtle divisions without closing off the space. This way, you maintain the openness while making it feel more inviting and liveable.

Add a picture rail or panelling

If the ceilings in your room feel a little too tall, a picture rail can work magic. A picture rail is a thin strip of moulding placed partway up the wall (typically around 7 - 9 feet), which creates the illusion of a lower ceiling by drawing the eye down. You could also try some half-wall panelling - it visually shortens the wall and adds texture, breaking up tall empty spaces. 

Paint the ceiling

The ceiling has a surprisingly big impact on how a room feels. In large rooms, painting the ceiling a darker shade can make it feel lower and more cocoon-like. Rich, moody hues like navy, burgundy, or forest green instantly add depth and cosiness. If you’re not into dark colours, a warm neutral or taupe can still create a soft, enclosing effect without making the room feel heavy. You can even add subtle texture to the ceiling, such as wood beams or a delicate wallpaper print, to make it a stand-out feature. 

Layer your lighting

Relying on a single overhead light can make the room feel flat and sterile. Instead, go for layered lighting. 

Start with ambient lighting - ceiling fixtures or recessed lights - to brighten the space. Then, add table lamps or floor lamps in different corners to create a softer, more intimate glow. Finally, use accent lighting, such as wall sconces, picture lights, or even LED strips, to highlight artwork or architectural details. Tip: Warm-toned bulbs will give the space a golden, cosy glow that makes it feel instantly more welcoming.

Use oversized furniture

It might seem counterintuitive, but using larger furniture pieces can actually make a big room feel cosier. Instead of scattering lots of small items, opt for a large sectional sofa or an oversized loveseat which takes up ample floor space. Small furniture in a large room can unintentionally make it appear more sparse. 

Create enclosure

Interior designer, Hans Lorlei, says one of the ways to make large rooms feel cosier is to create enclosure. But what does that mean? Essentially, it’s about cocooning the areas where you sit. For example: A side table with a lamp next to an armchair encloses it from one side. And a large pendant lamp over a dining table encloses it from above. Enclosure gently breaks up the room, creating smaller, more contained spaces without blocking the flow. 

Making a large room feel cosy is all about creating visual intimacy. By breaking it into zones and playing with proportions, you can turn any big room into a cosy, welcoming space where you love spending time.