The trend for a while was all-white kitchens with a minimalist aesthetic around the rest of the home. While the look can be pulled off beautifully, sometimes it can make a space feel cold and sterile. If you’re craving a little more warmth in your home, it’s time to enter your soft era. You can soften things up by changing a few key elements. Here’s how to approach it with colors, textures and patterns.

Color

Color sets the mood and can make or break the feel of a room. Take the plunge by adding a new coat of color to your walls. It’s the easiest way to make the biggest difference.

1. Welcome warm hues.

To soften your space, start by embracing warm hues. Think soft beiges, gentle yellows and blush pinks. If you’re not ready to move away from cooler colors just yet, warm grays are definitely a thing. They tend to be lighter and have beige or cream undertones.

2. Play with pastels.

Pastels are the cotton candy of the color world: sweet, delightful, and a bit nostalgic. Soft blues, mint greens, and lavender hues can soften the sharp edges of any room. They bring a sense of tranquility and whimsy, perfect for creating a serene and soft environment.

3. Layer neutrals.

If bold colors aren’t your thing, neutrals are your best friends. But don’t think beige on beige on beige; instead, layer different shades and textures to add depth and warmth. Combine a light gray sofa with cream-colored throw pillows and a taupe rug. The subtle variations will create a rich, inviting space without overwhelming the senses.

Consider adding a few well-placed accents like a dark wood coffee table or a black metal lamp to ground the space. These contrasting elements prevent your neutral palette from feeling too monochromatic and add a sense of depth to your design.

Texture

Textures are the tactile counterpart to colors. They add dimension and interest, making your space feel lived-in and loved. Here’s how to include more cozy textures in your home.

1. Mix and match fabrics.

Don’t be afraid to mix different fabrics. Pair a velvet sofa with linen pillows, or a wool rug with silk curtains. The contrast in textures will create a dynamic and relaxed atmosphere. Velvet, in particular, is a texture that’s also a crowd-pleaser—it’s soft, luxurious, and so inviting.

Picture a living room with a plush velvet sofa covered in chunky knit blankets. It’s a space that practically begs you to curl up with a good book and a cup of cocoa. Mixing textures truly keeps things interesting and prevents your room from feeling flat and one-dimensional.

2. Add natural elements.

Natural materials like wood, rattan, and stone add an organic warmth to your space. Think of a rustic wooden coffee table, a rattan chair, or a stone accent wall. These elements bring the outside in and create a grounded, earthy feel.

Natural textures connect us to nature, providing a soothing and calming effect that’s perfect for a cozy home. Add to the effect by placing a few potted plants to enhance this natural vibe, creating a refreshing and inviting ambiance.

3. Add soft accessories.

Throw blankets, cushions, and rugs are your best allies in the quest for coziness. Aim for soft, plush materials like faux fur, wool, and cotton. Drape a chunky knit throw over your sofa or scatter a few fluffy cushions around. These small touches make a big difference, turning any space into a cozy retreat.

Pattern

Patterns are like the sprinkles on your design cupcake. They add fun, personality, and a sense of playfulness to your space. Here’s how to incorporate patterns without going overboard.

1. Start with subtlety.

If you’re new to patterns, start small. Incorporate patterned throw pillows, rugs, or curtains. Subtle patterns like stripes, polka dots, or small florals can add interest without overwhelming the room.

For inspiration, imagine a neutral-colored bedroom with a few striped pillows and a floral rug. The patterns add just the right amount of character without making the room feel busy. Start with a few patterned accessories and gradually build up your confidence to add more if desired.

2. Mix and match.

For the more adventurous, mixing patterns can create a vibrant and eclectic look. The key is to stick to a cohesive color palette. Combine florals with stripes, or geometric patterns with polka dots. The trick is to balance bold patterns with more subdued ones to avoid a clash.

3. Add feature walls and statement pieces.

Make a statement with a patterned feature wall or a bold piece of furniture. A wallpapered wall with a delicate pattern can become the focal point of the room, like a dining room with a botanical print wallpaper. Similarly, a patterned armchair’s unique coffee table can add a burst of personality.