Walking along the beach, hiking a mountain trail, perusing a park, floating a river. Whatever your favorite method, there’s just something about the way that spending time outside in nature can make a person feel more at ease and centered. But, in the hustle and bustle of modern office life, a harmonious connection with nature often takes a backseat. However, as we strive to create healthier and more productive work environments, the concept of biophilic design is gaining significant traction. Imagine an office space that not only exudes elegance through its lighting but also seamlessly integrates elements from the natural world. Welcome to the realm of biophilic design, where offices are transformed into vibrant, invigorating spaces that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors.

The Biophilic Approach

Biophilic design is more than just a buzzword; it’s a philosophy that centers around human beings’ innate connection with nature. The term itself originates from “biophilia,” a concept coined by biologist E.O. Wilson to describe the inherent affinity humans have for the natural world. Biophilia is more than just an eco-friendly trend, it’s seen in all aspects of our life. People pay top dollar to live in homes that are near the ocean or a lake, that have an incredible view of the mountains or other scenery. Even in the heart of an urban city, the most coveted workspaces are always the corner office with a view – the need to connect with nature is in our DNA.

In the context of office spaces, studies have shown that biophilic design can improve cognitive performance, reduce stress, and increase perceived productivity. biophilic design seeks to integrate nature-inspired elements, such as natural light, indoor plants, flowing water, and earthy materials, into the architectural and interior design. It’s not quite as simple as adding a fake tree to the corner of your office space – it’s about finding ways to make you feel more connected to or in balance with nature while you’re there. 

Natural Light

Lighting is a cornerstone of biophilic design. Natural light is not only energy-efficient but also has numerous benefits for employee well-being. It regulates the circadian rhythm, boosts mood, and enhances productivity. When incorporating natural light into office spaces, consider large windows that allow ample daylight to flood the interiors. Take advantage of your view – simply making sure any plants or trees outside your windows can be seen from inside will enhance the design of your office space with minimal effort.

When altering windows isn’t an option, consider choosing window treatments that allow natural light to enter where possible. Use mirrors or reflective surfaces in strategic places to help reflect natural light throughout the space. 

Artificial Light

Complement your natural light with adjustable artificial lighting that mimics the changing qualities of natural light throughout the day. Choose light fixtures made from natural materials and have organic shapes. Consider making the swap to LED. LED bulbs are energy efficient, and they come in a wide range of colors that mimic natural light. Smart LED bulbs can be programmed to change throughout the day to help create a more natural feeling in the office than you can achieve with fluorescent tubes.

Indoor Greenery

Plants have a remarkable ability to purify the air and infuse spaces with a sense of vitality. Including greenery in the office doesn’t just serve an aesthetic purpose; it also promotes cleaner air, reduces stress, and improves concentration. Vertical gardens, potted plants, and hanging planters can transform sterile office corners into lush oases, contributing to a more relaxed and creative atmosphere. Not all plants are created equal – be sure to choose varieties that will flourish in their location in the office, taking into account the natural light and care requirements.

While natural plants are always best, they can be difficult to keep in some office spaces due to light or care requirements. In these situations, high-quality artificial plants can help to fill out the space. Try mixing them in with live plants to get the same look with less maintenance.

Organic Materials

The materials used in office interiors play a vital role in biophilic design. Wood, stone, and other natural textures evoke a tactile connection to the environment. Incorporating these materials into furniture, flooring, and decor elements can instill a sense of warmth and grounding. Such an environment fosters a feeling of comfort and tranquility, helping employees feel more connected to their workspace.

Look for practical ways to upgrade what you have – opt for wood furniture rather than wood veneers, ceramic over plastic pots for plants, stone tile over vinyl, natural fabrics over synthetics, etc.

Water Features

The soothing sound of flowing water has a mesmerizing effect that can elevate the office experience. Incorporating water features, such as indoor fountains or reflecting pools, can contribute to a sense of calmness and serenity. The gentle sounds of water can also mask unwanted noises, creating a more peaceful working environment.

Not all fountains are created equal – keep the overall soundscape of your office in mind. A noisy fountain in a small space will cause sensory overload for employees rather than boost moods.

Soundscape

In the realm of biophilic design, sound is a vital piece of nature-infused workspaces. The soft murmur of indoor fountains and cascading water walls can soothe and enhance focus, while subtle nature soundtracks can help foster creativity. It’s all about striking a balance, blending work-related noises with nature-inspired sounds, and creating an environment where tranquility and functionality can coexist seamlessly.

Thoughtful acoustic design will refine the soundscape by managing noise levels. Use sound-absorbent materials throughout the office to minimize echoes and avoid sound overlap that can drown out important conversations or interrupt a creative process. One of the most common complaints of workers in an office environment is noise levels – so fine-tune your soundscape carefully to achieve a good balance for each section of your workspace.

Creating Balance

Biophilic design emphasizes nature, but it’s crucial to remember that the main focus isn’t just to bring the outside in – it’s to create balance. You can’t just fill an office with plants and call it a day – the key is to strike a balance between natural and technological elements. Remember to pay attention to the less visible environmental elements as well – look into integrating technology for air quality monitoring and humidity control to ensure that the indoor environment remains comfortable and healthy. 

Biophilic design represents a paradigm shift in how we perceive office spaces. By merging the principles of nature with innovative lighting solutions, interior design, and sustainable materials, we can craft work environments that prioritize human well-being and productivity. As we embrace the concept of biophilia, we move closer to a future where offices aren’t just places of work but also sanctuaries of inspiration and vitality. So, let nature’s light shine through your office windows, and watch your workspace transform into a biophilic marvel.

Remember, at Pine Grove Lighting, we’re passionate about creating lighting solutions that align with the principles of biophilic design. Step into our showroom to discover a world where technology and nature coexist in perfect harmony, illuminating the path to a greener, more inviting office space.

In this post, we invite you to explore 20 eye-catching rooms, each featuring unique, oversized pendant lighting. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for a home makeover or simply appreciate beautiful interior design, this photo collection will ignite your creativity and leave you ready to illuminate your own living spaces with incredible statement lighting.

But first, what exactly is a pendant light? 

Pendant lights are fixtures hung from the ceiling that generally feature one light bulb (unlike a chandelier which features multiple bulbs). Pendant lights have been most commonly used in kitchens, but the recent increase in available styles means these lights are making their way to every room of the home – and we’re here for it! 

Oversized pendants can make a bold statement in a small space, or help to create balance in a large space. While the definition of “oversized” varies, it’s generally used to describe pendants measuring 16” or more wide. Oversized pendants are popular for good reason – fit into any design style, and create a gorgeous focal point in a space. 

Without further ado, let’s tour 20 beautiful spaces featuring oversized, statement pendant lighting. We hope you find some inspiration for your own spaces!

Make a bold statement in your kitchen with an industrial-inspired oversized metal pendant light like the one hanging above this beautiful kitchen island. This fixture combines a utilitarian look with an urban style that blends in seamlessly with many types of home decor.

Take inspiration from this ultra-modern, monochromatic kitchen by grouping three ultra-oversized pendant lights above your kitchen island. These glossy black pendants seamlessly blend into modern decor and provide a striking focal point that highlights the high ceilings. 

Set the mood in your kitchen or dining space with a pair of oversized pendants featuring a double-layer cage design and brushed brass hardware. These striking fixtures would take center stage in any space you hang them, especially if you put them on a dimmer. 

Illuminate your kitchen with elegant, minimalist oversized dome lights. The golden interior of these fixtures warms up any space, which is exactly what this white and gray kitchen needed. 

The clean, simple lines of these large cone-shaped pendants create a dramatic focal point for this open floor plan kitchen and dining area. Choosing a light fixture finish (such as the matte black seen in this photo) that matches your kitchen hardware creates a cohesive look that harmonizes the space.

Dramatic rooms demand dramatic lighting! This expansive living room, filled with art and an ample amount of natural light, just wouldn’t pack the same punch without the oversized, textural pendant light hanging from the high ceiling. 

Pendant lights are a great way to define different spaces in your home. This geometric wire pendant fixture adds an instant focal point and visual appeal to an otherwise understated living room. 

Create a seamless blend of nature and comfort in your casual living area with a nature-inspired, bamboo pendant. The collection of organic elements, such as the plants, wood accents, and relaxed lighting creates a soothing and inviting atmosphere.

A woven, black rattan pendant adds a relaxed vibe to this bohemian living room and creates a focal point that works wonderfully with the other decor pieces in the room. Even a seemingly simple piece can really pack a visual punch.

Hanging oversized pendant lights helps to fill the vertical space in this relaxed, modern living room. The scale of these fixtures command attention and make the room feel more complete and well-proportioned. If you’re lucky enough to have high ceilings in your home, consider hanging pendant lights to create a great sense of balance. 

This duo-tone contemporary dining room is brought together with a simple yet striking black metal pendant light. The unique lines of the table and chairs play well with a low-hanging light. This mix of black finishes and wood is a classic design trick that gives rustic warmth to a space with a modern edge.

When a room has a lot going on – like this dining room that features a floor-to-ceiling bookcase, glass door, and colorful chairs – utilizing a simple light fixture is often the way to go. The oversized and understated white shade on this pendant is the perfect fit to tie everything together. Sometimes your lighting needs to take a back seat to your decor and that’s perfectly fine.

Make a bold design statement in your entryway with a large sculptural pendant light, showcasing an eye-catching silhouette that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who sees it! While this oversized pendant might feel overpowering in some spaces, it looks perfectly suited for this vaulted stairwell. 

Add a touch of bold style to any room with a large pendant featuring a geometric shape. A fixture of this type works especially well in an industrial, modern space with clean lines and where decor is at a minimum. Although, when  the fixture itself becomes an artistic decor piece, it’ll fit into any art lover’s decor.

It’s all about the curves in this chic and elegant bedroom. The pastel-colored dome pendant breaks the mold with an unexpected punch of color, and its shape mimics the arches of the headboard. 

This large, textured pendant pairs well with a bold wallpaper in this primary bedroom. Including unexpected materials and patterns in your bedroom can help to draw visual interest and elevate the space.

This free-spirited, earthy bedroom brings a touch of nature indoors with organic-inspired, oversized rattan pendant lights to infuse the space with a warm and inviting ambiance.

Don’t be afraid to mix several styles and materials of light fixtures in one space – such as seen here in this farmhouse-style bathroom. The woven, oversized rattan sphere pendant contrasts beautifully with the more modern metal pendants suspended above the sinks and countertop.

Turn your primary bathroom into a spa-like retreat with the sleek and modern design of this oversized yet understated pendant light, adding a touch of refined glamor and creating a tranquil, spa-like oasis. 

Transform your children’s toy room into an adorable wonderland with this grouping of pendant lights, featuring a fun domed shape and pastel colors that inspire imagination and play. Children’s bedrooms and play spaces are a wonderful place to feature fun lighting pieces!

As we wrap up our exploration of these beautiful spaces featuring oversized pendant lighting, it’s clear that these fixtures have the power to showcase your personal style and create a focal point for your spaces. From kitchens and living rooms to dining areas and even bedrooms, oversized pendant lighting can be the perfect finishing touch that ties the room together. So, don’t be afraid to think big and incorporate this stunning lighting option into your next design project.

For expert advice on how you can incorporate unique and eye-catching pendant lighting throughout your own home, give Pine Grove Lighting a call today!

In the fast-evolving world of interior design, staying up-to-date with the latest trends can feel like a full-time job. It can be hard to tell which trends are here to stay, and which ones will be gone by next month.  Here are seven long-lasting trends that have been making waves in the world of home interiors.

1. Sustainable Design: A Green Revolution

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore – it’s become a way of life. Homeowners are basing their designs on sustainability for a number of reasons, ranging from a sense of responsibility to future generations to wanting a lower energy bill each month. Sustainable design doesn’t have to be an eyesore, the goal is to create a home that’s both eco-conscious and elegant. 

Sustainable design involves choosing materials and products that have a reduced impact on the environment. It’s about choosing quality over quantity, glass over plastic, repair over replace,  and homemade or home grown over convenience. These shifts in purchasing decisions also help to promote ethical production practices and encourage the production of energy-efficient technologies.

It’s easy to get lost in a spiral of internet research, trying to determine which products are best (and worst) for the environment. We always encourage learning, but it’s also important to remember that you don’t have to know it all before you can act. The easiest way to start thinking more sustainably is to find ways to reuse and repurpose. Opt for reclaimed wood for your furniture (or refinish a thrifted piece), choose items made from renewable materials, and repurpose rather than throw out your home decor items when you’re ready for a change. 

Beyond the environmental benefits, sustainable design is also about creating a healthier environment for you and your family. It reduces exposure to harmful chemicals found in many traditional building materials. Choosing energy-efficient building materials makes it easier and less expensive to keep your home comfortable year-round. Additionally, indoor plants, a popular element of sustainable decor, improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your interior.

One of the easiest ways to make your home more sustainable is to invest in energy-efficient appliances and light fixtures. Appliances and fixtures that use less power are better for both the environment and your power bill each month. Replace old light bulbs with LEDs, and look for the Energy Star logo when buying new fixtures.

2. Embracing Maximalism: Where More is More

In a departure from the ubiquitous minimalist trend, its opposite, maximalism, has taken the interior design world by storm. Maximalism is all about embracing the bold, the vibrant, and the extravagant. Think rich colors, intricate patterns, and an abundance of decor elements. In a maximalist space, every inch is an opportunity to showcase your unique style and personality.

Gone are the days of strict simplicity; maximalism encourages you to fill your space with the things you love, creating a sensory feast for the eyes. Layering textures, mixing patterns, and displaying collections are key elements of this trend. It’s about celebrating your passions and curiosities, resulting in a home that feels rich, warm, and incredibly inviting.

Incorporating maximalism into your home allows you to tell a story through your decor. It’s an opportunity to showcase your travels, your interests, and your love for art and culture. Don’t shy away from combining bold colors, ornate furniture, and eclectic accessories. Embrace the challenge of balancing diverse elements to create a cohesive, visually stunning environment.

3. Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors

We live in an age defined by urban living and digital connectivity, but this is relatively new in the history of humanity. For thousands of years, we relied on living in harmony with our environment to survive. In a sea of high rises and work-from-home offices, we’ve lost our connection to the thing that our species has relied on for millennia. In fact, our innate craving for a connection with nature has only intensified, which is the driving force behind a significant rise in biophilic design.

Biophilic design isn’t just adding plants to make a room “look outdoorsy”. It’s about creating a space that promotes wellness and tranquility by giving all of your senses a reminder of the outside world. Imagine the gentle rustle of leaves, the soothing sound of flowing water, or the warmth of sunlight on your skin  – these elements create a sensory experience that resonates with our primal instincts, reducing stress and increasing overall happiness. 

To add a touch of biophilic design to your home, consider incorporating natural materials into your decor, like wood, stone, ceramics, and natural fibers such as cotton, jute, wool, or silk. You can introduce the sounds of the outside with an indoor fountain gently trickling water or a well-placed speaker playing subtle, soothing nature sounds. You can add natural scents to your home with fragrant plants such as lavender or jasmine, or a scented candle.

One of the key principles of biophilic design is maximizing natural light. Sunlight brightens up your space and provides essential vitamin D, which is crucial for mental and physical health. If your home is short on windows, using strategically placed mirrors can help to reflect natural light deeper into your home.For the darker evenings and mornings, invest in quality LED bulbs that can mimic natural daylight, which will give your home lighting a more comfortable and natural glow. Avoid using cool-toned light bulbs in the rooms that you use in the evenings, as the can disrupt your circadian rhythm. 

For those with a green thumb, adding indoor plants to your home is an easy way to bring the outdoors in. Creating living walls, vertical gardens, or a small indoor herb garden can bring the vibrancy of nature to your home. A vining plant like pothos (seen on the right in the image below) is easy to care for and can grow up to 10 feet long indoors – these vines can be carefully attached along a wall or ledge to carry more greenery throughout the space without having to add more plants. These living elements can help to purify the air and give your home a refreshing energy, creating a sanctuary that rejuvenates both the body and the soul.

Pro Tip: If you struggle with keeping houseplants alive, give a snake plant a try before you call it quits on all things green. Snake plants (seen on the left in the image above) actually thrive when neglected! They are perfectly content away from windows and prefer to go for long periods between watering, which makes them a great choice for beginners or busy homes and offices.  

4. Smart Homes: Where Technology Meets Design 

In today’s fast-paced world, smart technology seamlessly intertwines with interior design, offering unparalleled convenience, security, and energy efficiency – without having to sacrifice on style. Imagine a home where your lights adjust to your mood, your thermostat learns your preferences, and your security system keeps you safe – all with a simple touch or voice command. Smart homes not only make daily tasks effortless but also enhance the overall ambiance of your living space.

Smart home accessories all aim to make your life easier or better in some way. Smart thermostats can learn your routines and optimize your heating a cooling to keep you cozy and save on your energy bills. Smart security systems make keeping an eye on things when you’re not at home easier than ever. Smart plugs and garage door openers are eliminating the need to turn around mid-commute “just to check” – you can turn off the curling iron or close the garage door from your phone.

We may be biased, but we think one of the best smart home technologies center around your lighting. Smart lighting systems can mimic natural daylight, promoting a healthy sleep-wake cycle, and can be dimmed or intensified according to your activities and preferences. Smart home theaters adjust the lighting and sound based on the movie you’re watching. Smart hubs can turn your lights on and off while you’re on vacation, helping to prevent theft by giving the appearance that someone is always home. Smart lights can be anything from an inexpensive color-changing rope light in a teenager’s room that they can change to fit their mood, to a professionally installed full-home solution, and anything in between. 

This trend isn’t going away – as technology continues to advance, the possibilities of smart homes are limitless. If you’d like to learn more about how to use smart lights in your home, stop by our showroom –  our lighting experts will be happy to show you the latest technologies available!

5. Mixing Materials: Creating Visual Harmony

The art of mixing materials has become a cornerstone of creating visually appealing and dynamic living spaces. Gone are the days of sticking to one (either yawn-inducing or visually overwhelming) material throughout a room.. Today’s designers and homeowners are blending different textures and materials to craft environments rich in depth and visual interest.

Consider the elegant contrast of a smooth marble countertop against rustic reclaimed wood cabinets in a kitchen, or soft, plush fabrics on a sofa juxtaposed with the sleekness of a metal coffee table in a living room. These combinations add tactile diversity and create a harmonious balance that captures the eye and invites touch.

The key lies in finding a cohesive theme or color palette that ties these diverse elements together, ensuring that the room feels curated rather than chaotic. Experiment with matte and glossy finishes, or intricate patterns with solid colors. Picture the warmth of a woven jute rug against the coolness of a glass-top dining table, or industrial metal pendant lights paired with the earthiness of terracotta planters. Don’t be afraid to experiment with combinations. Mix wood and metal, stone and fabric, or even leather and glass.Mix and match metallic colors throughout a space, or find fixtures that feature more than one tone, like a matte black sconce with copper accents. 

When done right, mixing materials can transform your home into a space that tells a story, evokes emotions, and captivates the senses, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who enters.

6. Bold Colors: Making a Striking Statement in Your Home

While neutral tones have long been the safe choice in interior design, the return of bold colors is ushering in a new era of creativity and self-expression… and we are here for it! Vibrant hues, from jewel-toned emeralds and deep sapphires, to earthy oranges and deep reds, to moody blacks and rich browns, are taking center stage. Gone are the white on greige on white interiors, bold colors are transforming rooms into bold and captivating spaces that are full of life.

Bold colors add instant personality to a room, reflecting your individuality and creating a unique atmosphere that is as dynamic and vibrant as you are. When choosing bold colors, consider the psychology of hues. Rich blues and greens evoke tranquility and depth, making them ideal for spaces where relaxation is key, such as bedrooms or reading nooks. Yellows and oranges radiate warmth and energy, making them excellent choices for social areas like dining rooms or kitchens, encouraging lively conversations and culinary adventures.

You can experiment with adding bold colors in many different ways. Picture a scarlet couch anchoring a neutral-toned living room, an emerald accent wall highlighting a contemporary art collection, or a cozy hallway with the walls and ceiling painted a soothing shade of sage green. These daring choices add plenty of visual interest by establishing a focal point, drawing the eye, and setting the tone for the entire room.

For those who are not ready to fully commit to vibrant wall colors, incorporating bold hues through furnishings, artworks, or textiles provides a perfect compromise. Think about incorporating colorful throw pillows, rugs, or curtains. These elements can be easily swapped or updated, allowing you to experiment with different shades and combinations over time.

7. Vintage and Artisanal Pieces: Adding Timeless Charm and Personalized Elegance

In a world dominated by mass production, there’s a growing appreciation for the craftsmanship and uniqueness found in vintage and artisanal pieces, making them a breath of fresh air in interior design. Incorporating these items into your decor not only adds a touch of historical significance but also infuses your space with a sense of character and individuality that can’t be replicated by modern, off-the-shelf furniture.

Vintage pieces, whether it’s a weathered farmhouse table or a carefully restored mid-century armchair, tell stories of the past (and they make great conversation starters). They carry the marks of time, adding depth and nostalgia to your home. Scouring antique shops or flea markets for these treasures can be a fun experience, allowing you to discover items that resonate with your taste and history. 

Handmade ceramics, woven textiles, or intricately carved wooden furniture are not just objects; they are works of art. In contrast to mass-produced items, artisanal pieces are meticulously crafted by skilled hands, showcasing a level of craftsmanship that is unparalleled. Supporting artisans not only sustains traditional crafts but also brings a sense of authenticity to your home. Each handmade piece carries the unique touch of its creator, adding a soulful quality to your space.

One of the greatest advantages of incorporating vintage and artisanal pieces is the opportunity for personalization. Your home becomes a canvas where you can mix and match eras, styles, and textures, creating a space that reflects your eclectic tastes and passions. Picture a modern living room adorned with vintage posters or a sleek, minimalist kitchen accentuated by handmade, colorful tiles. These combinations add layers to your decor, making it uniquely yours.

When decorating with vintage and artisanal pieces, the sustainability aspect cannot be overlooked. Repurposing existing pieces reduces the demand for new production, minimizing your ecological footprint. And, in a world inundated with mass-produced items, integrating artisanal pieces into your decor is a celebration of the exceptional, the unique, and the enduring. It’s a testament to your appreciation for heritage, craftsmanship, and the human touch. 

Incorporating these trends into your home doesn’t mean undergoing a complete overhaul. Small changes, like adding a reclaimed piece of furniture, introducing a bold accent color, or switching to smart bulbs can make a transformative difference. We’ll never advocate for having a home ruled by trends  – they can be fickle and fleeting. The important thing to remember is that you need to feel like you in your home – so latch onto the trends that spark your soul and make your home a place where you’ll love to be. 

Need help lighting your home? A fully curated room is still incomplete without adequate lighting. Don’t get stuck scrolling for hours trying to find the perfect light, only to have it break during shipping or fall apart right after the return window. Stop by our showroom or give us a call, and let our lighting experts help you find quality fixtures and make the perfect plan for your home’s lighting needs.

It’s 2023 and this is your wake-up call! Your home needs you – it’s ready for a refresh! This year, we’re all looking for a respite from the stress that always seems to work its way in. Designing a comfortable home will make you feel the extra happiness and productivity you’ve been in desperate need of. These 3 expert tips will make your home a haven you’ll be itching to get back to at the end of the day!

1. Choose a Soft Color Palette

It’s no secret that colors have a huge effect on your mood and the feel of a room. These rooms knock the color palette out of the park without sacrificing personal style or comfort. Achieving a soft color palette doesn’t have to be difficult – go with neutrals, a pop of color, or choose a monochromatic color scheme and you’re set!

Neutrals

A neutral color palette seems like an obvious choice when you’re going for comfort, but it can be tough to pull off – without color, other elements like texture or shapes will have to do the heavy lifting.

The heavyweight champions here are definitely the plants! Adding some green to an otherwise neutral-heavy space brings some life and vibrance without destroying the tranquility you desperately need. Finishing this look with a variety of textures and shapes from the hard wood edges to the pair of round tables to the woven area rug makes this space feel comfortable, creative, and cozy.

This neutral bedroom incorporates beige and white with black accents to ground the space. The night stands with pendants hanging above elevate the space, giving you lighting and a gorgeous focal point! We love how this space feels lived-in without looking cluttery. With neutral tones, the soft textures of the rug and blankets are what make this room feel comfortable and cozy.

Picking a neutral color palette for this sitting area really make the shapes shine. We love how arches are carried throughout the design from the furniture to the architecture. This chair looks like a cloud and with the gorgeous light above it, anyone sitting here would feel like they’re in the heavens!

Pop of Color

A cozy home doesn’t have to be colorless! If neutrals don’t speak to you, try mixing them with a pop of color. It’ll give your room some excitement, but not so much that it’ll feel busy or chaotic.

This living room took a bold color and ran with it. The navy blue is a stunning contrast to this cozy tan leather couch. If we could copy and paste this look into our homes, we would! The neutrals pop against the accent wall and we couldn’t be more obsessed.

These red velvet pillows and drapes contrast with the neutral room and bring in some cozy texture. The bright colors spice up what might otherwise feel like a bland living room.

Monochromatic 

Choosing a monochromatic color scheme is a 2023 trend we love. It’s bold, but still soft. In a true monochromatic space, there isn’t extra visual stimuli for your brain to process. This gives your brain a sense of peace and calm you may not feel in a room with more going on in terms of color. These rooms use a simple color palette and the effect is cozy with a touch of elegance. 

Green is one of the most soothing colors. It can bring a sense of peace and harmony to your home. This couch and wall combo is no exception! Choosing to pair them with beautiful browns makes this sitting room look like it was plucked straight from nature, then given a facelift.

This kitchen uses the monochromatic color scheme to make it look bigger than it is. We especially love that extra wood cabinet with accent lighting both for functionality to store more and for decorative purposes. The calming blues make this a space you’d want to do some stress-baking in!

2. Add Soft Textures

Texture is a vital tool in an expert’s tool belt, especially when comfort is your end-goal. A space can be gorgeous, but if it feels like a place your grandma will yell at you for touching anything in, it won’t really feel comfortable. Texture is what takes a space from formal and austere to a beautiful, cozy space you can actually live in.

There’s no question this bedroom is gorgeous, but it also feels like a space you could spend time in without completely messing it up. The intentionally unkempt linens on this corner of the bed add simulated texture that makes it feel like home. We also love the green velvet accent pillow and floor pillows for an extra cozy touch! A lamp and pendant allows you to have dimmer or brighter lighting to accommodate your changing needs.

There is no world where a chunky-knit blanket and lots of pillows won’t scream comfort. The touches of fur on the rug and the side bench give it an extra dose of coziness. Anyone would love to curl up and hibernate here all winter! Light a few candles in the lanterns and switch on the pendant for the perfect reading spot at night.

This feminine bedroom is a corner of paradise! The colors are soft and gorgeous, but the textures are what really make this space magical. The velvet headboard brings delicate softness to the space. The textured pouf and cane-detailed night stand here are working overtime – and they should get paid for it! They bring elements of texture and give some seating and storage space. The blanket and soft rug are the finishing touches that would have anyone making excuses to retreat here for peace and quiet.

3. Soften Your Lighting

Harsh lighting is the opposite of comfortable! It’ll leave you with a headache and can actually make it harder for you to sleep at night. To bring in some much-needed comfort, you’ll need to soften up your lighting. In a room with soft lighting, the transition from light to dark is gradual and easy on the eyes. Avoid harsh shadows and balance your lights out using these three tips and your eyes and mood will thank you!

Dimmable Lighting

Switching to dimmable lights is a relatively simple way to soften your lights and make your lighting customizable. This cozy room is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Dim the lights 2 hours before bed to help yourself sleep better, then brighten them in the morning to jump start your mood and your day!

Layer Your Lights

Layering your lighting is a fool-proof way to give you adjustable light. Every room in your house should have at least a few light sources to make it feel more comfortable and eliminate any dark corners. Adding a few lamps across a room and some pendants will give you flexibility to have more or less light depending on your need and mood.

Accent Lighting

Accent lights are the finishing touches that make a room feel complete. They’re the piping on top of the icing on the cake! Adding them makes a room instantly feel warmer and more comfortable. Plus, they soften up your lighting by eliminating harsh shadows in areas that might otherwise go overlooked. Put sconces on an empty wall, strip lighting under cabinets like in this kitchen, or pendants above conversation areas. A room with warm, balanced lighting is a guaranteed ticket to having the relaxing ambiance you need for comfort.

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Listen, it’s 2023 and it’s time you started living your life in comfort! Choosing to design a cozy home is about more than just aesthetics. It’s about overall wellness! You deserve to live in a home you love, so it’s time to get started. With a little inspiration, the expert tips above, and help from Pine Grove Lighting you’ll be set! Give us a call and we’ll help you soften your lighting and give your home the extra relaxing boost it needs.