I’ve always been drawn to simple living. Nowhere is it more apparent than in my choice of home decor. Neutral hues, modern design, and classic comforts. Here are my five tips for creating a minimalist cozy living space:

#1 Choose Calming Neutral Hues

My go-to decor palette is neutral. Within that range I gravitate towards earth tones with hues of sand, cream, soft blues, and muted gray. I bring in dimension with furniture and accent pieces that are composed of a combination of either glass and metal or natural wood.

#2 Artwork as Story

Minimalist artwork doesn’t have to be so abstract or contemporary that it feels jarring. Artwork that continues the decor story brings in a cozy and intimate feel. To that end I choose images within the same earth tone palette that evoke a sense of calm mystery.

#3 Accent with Whimsy

When your space isn’t cluttered by traditional decorating fillers — like framed photos, bookshelves, and curio cabinets — accent pieces take on a new hue. Something as simple as a single magazine placed with a bronze urchin on top brings in intimate whimsy and delicate wonder.

#4 Give Sunlight a Leading Role

Bright and airy spaces inspire us — they change the way we feel, the way we eat, the way we approach the day, our energy levels and our outlook on life. Give sunlight a leading role in your living space by using only light colored or sheer drapes.

#5  Sacred Sensory Elements

Home is your sacred space, your secret sanctuary where you can just be. Pay homage to this special relationship with elements that delight the senses. Fresh flowers instead of artificial; nutritious meals and snacks instead of low vibrational processed food; wicked candles instead of battery operated; and light soft throws made from natural fabrics such as cotton or wool instead of heavy dark blankets made from synthetic materials. Play soft music at a steady cadence in the background rather than blaring the harsh audio of television news or distracting computer videos. Embracing and elevating the senses to create sacred sensory elements is essential to creating minimalist cozy decor.