Everyone needs a living room that is perfectly cosy for those evenings when you just want to chill out. 

Everyone needs a living room that is perfectly cosy for those evenings when you just want to chill out. Of course, with kids, it can be hard to keep your space cosy while being tidy too.   
However, there are ways to get the balance right and have a sitting room that is perfect for cosy nights in so all you need to do is decide on what you want to watch on the box!
Be creative – This means going outside your normal box and being a little inventive and creative. Paint one of your walls in a bolder colour while leaving the other walls in a more neutral colour. Use warm tones to make the room feel cosy and consider the rest of your sitting rooms style and décor. If you haven’t heard of console tables – we can’t recommend them enough as they can be the perfect addition to a sitting room. If your sitting room is extra spacious, console tables are good to separate the kids play space to your seating/living area. It means you can still have a lovely sitting room while having an area for the kids without losing its cosiness. The console table will divide the room and add texture to it.
Think seating – L-shaped sofas are lovely (if you have space) and so are scalloped chairs with smaller sofas. Think about how you want to relax and buy the furniture that allows for your lifestyle and make sure you are comfy sitting in it before you buy it. Bean bags are not too expensive either and they look great as well as being cosy! Adding cushions is another tip and once again, choose them carefully. Velvet is trendy right now and it is luxurious and cosy so it may be perfect for your sitting room.
Space savers and fabrics – Throws and blankets work well strewn over chairs in the sitting room. They add colour to the room too and warmth for the colder evenings. Ottomans are a piece of genius, as they come in many styles and they are ideal for hiding toys or other things you don’t want guests to see. Invest in some and use them as a coffee table or simply as a side unit. Curtains really add to a room and ensure you pick wisely as they can make or break your concept. Floor to ceiling curtains are beautiful and add extra warmth to a room. Get a soft rug to be the centrepiece of your sitting room too and you’ll find your sitting room is instantly more attractive.
Little extras – Adding tall plants or little plants adds a lot of volume to a sitting room and it is nice to bring the outdoors inside. And let’s not forget how good plants are for their health benefits either! Let the light in and avoid blocking out natural light as natural and bright light makes a room cosier. For lights and lamps to suit your sitting room, pick ones that are stylish and durable. Add bookshelves and books to a room, especially if you are a book worm. Furthermore, shelving is a lovely way to show off your little ornaments and bits but don’t go overboard and avoid clutter. A decluttered room will keep you relaxed. Keep family mementos and photos on show too to make it a place you’ll love to cosy up in! Invest in some statement art pieces and there are plenty available depending on your budget.
Then enjoy your new space and relax!
Emma Hayes is a thirty-something mum of two girls aged 16 and 10, planting her right into the teenage and tween-age years! Follow her on Twitter at @EmmaHayes25.