26 Cozy Apartment DIY Decor Ideas That Feel Homey

Written by Derek Ledezma in Small Space Decor

I stared at my beige couch for months and realized the problem wasn’t the sofa—it was the missing layers. Small changes—textiles, one tall plant, and better lighting—made the space feel lived-in and inviting. These 10 easy DIY-forward ideas are what I used to make my apartment feel like home, most under $150.

This is for a cozy, modern-boho to Scandinavian-leaning vibe. Budget: mostly $20–$150, with a couple of splurges. Works best in living rooms, bedrooms, and small entryways. Trends I leaned on: layered textures, mixed metals, floor-to-ceiling curtains, and statement greenery (2025-friendly).

What You'll Need to Get This Look

Textiles & Soft Goods:

Wall Decor & Shelving:

Lighting:

Plants & Greenery:

Budget-Friendly Finds:

Layered Neutrals With One Bold Accent Color

Style/Vibe: Modern Transitional
Budget: $$ (under $100)
Best For: Living room, bedroom

I went neutral with cream, warm gray, and wood tones, then added a single rust pillow for warmth. I used velvet pillow covers and a chunky knit throw. The trick is texture ratio: two soft textiles for every smooth surface. It reads more expensive than it is. Avoid too many competing colors—pick one accent and repeat it in a small vase or book cover.

Floor-To-Ceiling Curtains To Add Height

Style/Vibe: Minimalist / Scandinavian
Budget: $$ (under $100)
Best For: Living room, bedroom

I hung 96-inch linen blend curtains close to the ceiling and that simple change made my 8-foot ceilings feel taller. Light filters beautifully and the room feels calmer. Tip: use tension rods for renters or real brackets for a cleaner look. Mistake to avoid: mounting too low—curtains should start an inch below the ceiling for a proportional lift.

Chunky Textiles For a Cozy Reading Nook

Style/Vibe: Boho Cozy
Budget: $ (under $75)
Best For: Nook, corner, bedroom

I built a nook with an armchair, chunky knit throw, and a brass floor lamp. The oversized throw (50×60") and a 22-inch euro pillow anchor the spot. Use a small side table and a stack of two coffee-table books for scale. Avoid scaled-down textiles—the oversized pieces read cozier in photos and real life.

Floating Shelves With Curated Greenery

Style/Vibe: Modern Farmhouse / Scandinavian
Budget: $ (under $100)
Best For: Living room, kitchen, entry

I installed white oak floating shelves and styled them with a mix of real and faux plants. Use odd numbers, vary pot heights, and tuck a candle in. Plants add softness and the NASA Clean Air Study notes many houseplants can help reduce indoor pollutants (source: https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19930073077). Don’t over-clutter—leave negative space for a calm look.

Gallery Wall With Mismatched Vintage Frames

Style/Vibe: Eclectic / Vintage
Budget: $ (under $100)
Best For: Hallway, living room, dining area

I thrifted frames at Goodwill and bought fresh mats—vintage brass frames 8×10. Mixing metals and frame styles avoids the “catalog” feel and adds personality. Layout on the floor first, keep the largest piece off-center, and use a consistent mat color to tie it together. Common mistake: spacing frames too far apart—keep them 2–3 inches for cohesion.

Oversized Mirror To Brighten Dark Corners

Style/Vibe: Modern / Coastal
Budget: $$ (under $150)
Best For: Living room, entryway, small bedroom

I leaned a 36-inch round mirror against the wall to double light and visually expand the room. Mirrors are an easy renter-friendly pick. Place it across from a window if possible. Avoid mirrors with busy frames in small spaces; keep the frame simple to reflect more light.

Mixed Metallics For Modern Glam

Style/Vibe: Modern Glam / Transitional
Budget: $$ (under $120)
Best For: Living room, dining nook

I pair warm brass lamps with cool nickel hardware. Mixing metals keeps things current—CB2 and West Elm both do good examples. Try brass floor lamps and mixed metal frames. Avoid matching every finish—contrast adds depth and feels intentional.

Rotating Coffee Table Vignette For Seasonal Freshness

Style/Vibe: Casual Eclectic
Budget: $ (under $50 per rotation)
Best For: Living room

I keep a tray and rotate small objects—a bowl, a candle, seasonal greenery. Use odd numbers and varied heights. I source thrifted books and change the vignette monthly. LED Edison bulbs in nearby lamps warm the scene at night. Pitfall: overcrowding—leave breathing room.

Window Bench Using a Radiator Cover For Extra Seating

Style/Vibe: Cozy / Cottagecore
Budget: $$ (under $150)
Best For: Small living room, bedroom window

I converted a radiator cover into a low bench with a custom-cut foam cushion and linen cover. Add slim storage baskets underneath. I used a 4-inch foam pad wrapped in a chunky throw used as a cushion cover. It became my favorite morning spot. Avoid cushions that are too soft; they flatten quickly.

Layered Rugs To Define Zones In Open Studios

Style/Vibe: Boho / Global
Budget: $$ (under $200)
Best For: Studio apartments, open-plan living

I layered a large neutral jute rug with a smaller vintage-look rug to add pattern without overpowering. A common rule I follow: larger neutral underneath, smaller patterned rug for the focal area. Use double-sided rug tape at overlap to prevent slipping. For an 8-foot sofa, start with at least a 6×9 base rug plus a 4×6 accent.

Shopping Tips for These Looks

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the best neutral paint color that doesn't feel cold?
A: I like Benjamin Moore "Classic Gray" or Sherwin-Williams "Alabaster." For renters, try peel-and-stick linen wallpaper panels.

Q: How many throw pillows is too many?
A: For a standard sofa, 5 is my sweet spot: two euros (22-inch) in back, two 18-inch, and one lumbar. Use 22-inch euro pillow inserts.

Q: Real plants or faux?
A: Both. I keep one real low-care plant (snake plant) and a tall faux fiddle leaf fig for height. Realistic faux fiddle leaf fig options are convincing.

Q: How do I make a small room look larger?
A: Hang curtains high, use a large mirror, and keep furniture slightly off the walls. 36-inch round mirror is my go-to.

Final nudge: start with textiles—swap pillows and add one oversized throw like this chunky knit blanket. Which room will you refresh first?

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