If you know anything about me, you know I love a good white, bright space. But lately, I must confess I’m being drawn to photos featuring a more cozy, moody interior. Maybe it’s because of the shortened days in fall (and even shorter in winter!) and because I painted a dark, moody wall in my nursery. Or maybe it’s because Halloween is around the corner! Who knows?! All I know, is that, as of late, my priority is to make my space as cozy as possible and embrace the darkness (even though it complicates shooting blogging photos lol). Here are some of my tips for creating a moody interior for yourself.
Colour
Obviously, darker colours are a straight shot to a cozy, calming moody interior. But, believe it or not, you can absolutely have a moody white interior too. It has a lot to do with your lighting (see next point) and what colours FEEL calming to you. A deep red wall will never feel restful and cozy to me, and I personally believe that white is not boring whatsoever! But that’s me. You can be the total opposite. Just keep in mind that when choosing colours in your home, think about the tone and saturation. And consider more than just the walls. I love to keep my walls white but then bring in moodier colours in my accessories.
Lighting
When creating a moody interior, you want just the right amount of natural light filtering through. Embrace the shadows. And when natural light isn’t an option (the sun goes down sooo early in the winter here), have pockets of light that can create those intimate spaces. Dimmer switches are handy, as are candles, task lighting and even twinkle lights accenting an accessory or doorway.
Senses
A space can become so moody with the right kind of tactile additions.Things that look, feel and smell good are the best to play with. For instance, a cozy leather couch looks even more restful with a soft pillow or two. Curling up in your favourite chunky knit feels amazing and smelling cookies baking in the oven just makes a home feel like home. All of those things create that “stay awhile” mood. I would be remiss to forget sound too – a great itunes playlist while you bake those cookies is the most comforting.
Objects
Typically, a more eclectic style will lend to a moodier space. The objects you bring into your home reflect your personality but also contribute a great deal to the coziness of a room. Think about the collections you own, the books on display, the art on the walls. My dear friend, With Justine, has an incredible collection of records, and having that stack on display instantly creates a cozy vibe. Not every object needs to be shiny and new. A little bit of history is great in any space and definitely adds to a moody interior.
Imperfections
I love a touch of the unexpected or a moment of quirk. I love it when things aren’t styled perfectly, or 100% neat. Having those imperfections throughout your home is the best! For instance, my duvet is linen and I once tried to get all the creases and lines out for a shoot. It was tedious and so useless…linen is meant to look imperfect after all. Plus, I love that my bed looks lived in and messy. It makes me want to jump in there at the end of the day, so much more than a pristine, perfectly made bed ever could. These imperfections are exactly what a cozy space needs…something genuine and real.
Now with all that being said, sometimes you just need a good black paint to create a moody interior…so check back next week when I share my top choices from Benjamin Moore, just like I did with my favourite white paints!
that kitchen is DREAMY! i’m a bit sad to press pause on a dark wall in the office, but not that sad, haha ;)! we’re about to be surrounded by quite a few hued walls.
haha that’s very true!! Pressing pause is more than ok 🙂