Let’s get cozy!
As students, it’s essential to have somewhere where you can fully unwind.
And, most of us spend a good chunk of our days in our bedrooms — starting and ending every day with the view from our pillows and (most likely) also using the space to study, work, hang out with friends, relax, exercise, and more. So why not make sure that it’s the place that makes you feel your coziest?
You might be thinking: “I’m a student; how can I afford to decorate my space and make it cozier? Isn’t that expensive?”
It can be — but when it comes to turning your bedroom into your own cozy oasis, it doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Maximum comfort can be achieved on a student budget by making small, simple changes that go a long way. Not sure where to start? IGNITE’s got you!
Here are eight simple ways to make your bedroom feel cozier this cold season:
Adjust the lighting
Lighting can really enhance a space.
Soft and warm lighting choices are essential when trying to make a space feel cozier. Avoid using strong, cool-coloured or fluorescent overhead lights; and instead, try incorporating lamps and using decorative lighting-like:
- Himalayan salt lamps. These make for a visually interesting piece and also offer warm lighting. Their warm and soft glow helps create a relaxing atmosphere to help you unwind.
- Fairy Lights. This trendy decorative lighting option is not hard to find on a budget. Plus, they can be found in a tons of fun colours lengths and styles!
Surround yourself with your favourite smells
Candles serve many purposes: they make your space smell great, provide a warm and cozy ambiance and can help calm your mind, improve your mood and boost your sleep.
If candles aren’t permitted where you live, essential oils diffusers or wall diffusers are great alternatives—they’ll still give you the relaxing smell and warm light without the flame.
Bring on the blankets
There’s something so soothing about curling up like a burrito after a stressful day.
Blankets are a great way to add texture, warmth and cozy vibes to your space.
Of course, there are some pricey options out there—but there’s no need to be that extra. You can find great affordable blankets at places like Walmart or IKEA (and, because they’re so affordable you can even justify getting more than one. Wink.)
Pillows, pillows and more pillows
Adding pillows instantly makes any space feel cozier and more comfortable.
This might be controversial—as some people don’t like to have a lot of pillows because they take up a lot of space—but there’s no denying that an excessive number of pillows is the way to go if you want to create a cozy space. You can always move them or use them for other purposes and they make great snuggle buddies.
Now, you might be thinking “How many is excessive?” Well, that’s up to you — decide based on your space and preferences. Have fun with it and do what makes you happy.
Cushion covers are great sustainable options if you don’t want to keep buying pillows but like to change up your décor. (IKEA to the rescue again!)
Bring nature inside
Over the colder months, we often miss the greenery on full display the most.
However, there’s no need to only keep plants outside! Incorporating a couple of houseplants into your space will not only help make it cozier but will also provide many scientifically proven health benefits.
If you’re not sure of your ability to keep plants alive, there are many “indestructible” varieties available, like:
Alternatively, give artificial plants and flowers a try! They might not offer all the same health benefits as real plants, but they’ll still do a great job at making a space feel cozier.
Upgrade your bedding
Your bed is the centrepiece of your bedroom. So it’s only right that, when trying to make your room feel cozier, it gets a little TLC too.
On top of your throw blankets and pillows, upgrading your bedding can do wonders.
There are two parts to consider: the sheets and the duvet. You can swap out both or only one—but, whatever you decide, make sure you’re getting something that will keep you warm and cozy even on the chilliest days. For this, we recommend fleece or flannel sheets and a thicker duvet.
Like with pillows, you can purchase a separate duvet or comforter and duvet cover set for easy cleaning and switching out depending on the season and your needs.
Plus, warm colours—like reds, yellows, and oranges—often remind us of sunlight, sand, fire, and heat—all things we need a little more of over the colder months. So, for the coziest look, consider working with a warm colour scheme and try to pick sets that match the other elements you’ve included in your room for a cohesive look.
Warning: this might make it extra hard to get out of bed in the mornings.
Embrace white noise and calming music
Sometimes, music is the only thing that takes your mind off everything else.
Listening to music can be a great way to relax and a great tool for making your space feel cozier. It can also help you achieve deeper concentration and productivity—which as students, we all need a little more of sometimes.
Of course, music tastes differ but pick what makes you feel coziest.
Find great playlists online through streaming services or even for free on YouTube. IGNITE even has a couple of playlists of our own to help you set the mood for your cozy space.
Add personal touches
Last but not least, make your room extra cozy this cold season by adding some personal touches that will make you feel warm and fuzzy.
This can be as simple as getting pictures of your favourite memories developed and displaying them on your walls or around your space. If pictures aren’t your thing, try putting up posters of your favourite bands or movies; and if you’re an artist, let your imagination soar and create some art pieces to lay out.
You could also display meaningful items and knickknacks you’ve collected over time; or check out local thrift stores or vintage shops to see if any items resonate with you and your personal style.
Et voila! I think we can all agree that a trip to IKEA or the local home-and-garden store is now justified!
Share your comfy spaces with IGNITE on Instagram or Twitter this cold season so we can all feel cozier together (and share some décor ideas).
Spending your first winter in Canada? Brrrr-ace yourself with IGNITE’s rundown of everything you need to know to survive your first Canadian winter!
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