Larsen & Talbert capture the inviting kitchen at Ben and Erin Napier’s weekend retreat in the outskirts of Laurel, Mississippi. In the past, describing a home as “cozy” was seen more as a marketing tactic rather than a genuine selling point, often used to make small spaces appear more attractive than they really were. However, times have changed. According to Zillow, the term “cozy” now appears in listings 35% more frequently than it did in 2023.
The trend away from vast, open-concept spaces has been a long time coming, with many now leaning towards traditionally divided spaces. This preference was further reinforced during the pandemic when the demand for separate, functional areas increased. “Cozy” now represents more than just warmth and nostalgia; it signifies a return to thoughtful, timeless design that promotes comfort and connection.
Why “Cozy” Is The Most Requested Home Trend by Larsen & Talbert
Bringing Back the Lived-In Kitchen
The desire for a cozy kitchen has always been a top priority for homeowners, notes India Smith of Kitchen Solvers. She suggests that even when sleek, modern designs dominated trends and “cozy” seemed out of place, incorporating warm and inviting elements was crucial to avoid a cold, sterile atmosphere. Nowadays, homeowners use “cozy” and “comfortable” to describe their ideal kitchens as a means to highlight its role as “the heart of the home.” Smith emphasizes that homeowners want this space to embody love and togetherness, making it more than just a passing trend but a lifestyle that enriches shared moments.
To create a cozy kitchen, Smith recommends using natural materials like wood and stone, incorporating plants, and ensuring ample natural light for a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.
Related: 26 Small Kitchen Ideas to Maximize Your Space
The Emergence of “Quiet Luxury”
In today’s market, when buyers express a desire for a cozy home, they are essentially seeking a sense of quiet luxury. This entails high-quality construction, luxurious textiles, and soft lighting to create an inviting and comfortable space. Realtors Drey Doty and Allison McLaurin from Georgia note that people want to envision their loved ones relaxing and socializing in the existing spaces of a home. They aim for a clean aesthetic that is also livable.
For those already drawn to the concept of quiet luxury, focusing on quality over quantity and highlighting the unique architectural features of your home is key.
Alison Gootee; Styling: Jennifer Berno DeCleeneCreating a Sense of Privacy
With smaller homes becoming more prevalent and a rise in multigenerational living arrangements, privacy has become increasingly important. Joe Raboine, vice president of design at Oldcastle APG, emphasizes the need for aesthetically pleasing ways to incorporate privacy outdoors and create tranquil retreats for gatherings with loved ones.
Joe Kauffman, Texas regional vice president for System Pavers, recommends that homeowners consider creating intimate
Suggestions for creating a cozy atmosphere are abundant. Florida-based realtor Alexei Morgado emphasizes the importance of having a home that acts as a personal sanctuary, where every aspect contributes to a sense of well-being, with features such as covered patios, jacuzzis, and terraces for relaxation.
Design Aspects of a Cozy Home
Stella Masterson of Charming Austin describes a cozy home as welcoming and serene, a peaceful retreat with thoughtful design elements. Achieving coziness can be done through nostalgic touches like built-in bookshelves, window seats, and fireplaces, as well as charming vintage-inspired details such as bay windows, hardwood floors, arched doorways, and stained glass.
Soft Shaping
Opt for furniture with soft, curved edges to enhance the cozy factor of your space. Incorporate natural materials like wood, marble, and granite, along with textured elements like woven baskets, leather chairs, and soft wool rugs. Consider using softer, more organic shapes, such as pill-shaped islands with rounded edges in the kitchen, to create a relaxed look.
Collected Layering
Interior designer Ali Burgoon suggests that layering rich textiles, vintage furnishings, and layered lighting can create a collected and inviting feel in a cozy space. Homeowners are gravitating towards personalized and lived-in spaces, incorporating elements like heirloom rugs, moody color palettes, and a mix of materials such as wood, linen, and patinated metals.
Mood Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of a space. Opt for 2000K bulbs for a natural glow and maximize natural light from outside. Adding a fireplace or candles can enhance the ambiance and make a room feel even cozier.
