How to Create a Welcoming Home: 8 Interior Design Tips

How to Create a Welcoming Home: 8 Interior Design Tips

Suzie Anderson | Owner of Suzie Anderson Home Suzie Anderson | Owner of Suzie Anderson Home
6 minute read

Table of Contents

Creating a warm and welcoming home is about layering thoughtful details that make your spaces feel inviting for both you and your guests. From curb appeal to guest bedroom comforts, here are 8 interior styling tips to help you design interiors that radiate charm and hospitality.

SHOP THE LOOK


Image Source: Top: Studio McGee. Bottom: House and Garden


Welcoming Home Tip #1. 

Enhance Your Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and refreshing your home’s exterior sets the tone before anyone steps inside.

Consider:

  • Replacing or painting your front door in a standout colour or elegant wood stain.

  • Updating hardware such as doorknobs, pulls, doorbells, and letterboxes.

  • Framing the entry with potted plants like topiaries, hydrangeas, or succulents in ceramic, zinc, terracotta, or wooden planters.

  • Power washing pathways and driveways for a clean finish.

  • Anchoring the doorway with a welcome mat, outdoor wreath, and well-placed lighting such as wall sconces, pendants, or festoon lights.

Explore our outdoor lanternsplanters, and outdoor furniture to create a beautiful and inviting entry.

Anduze White Planter

Anduze White Planter

$459.00

For Australia-wide deliveries, an additional freight quote does apply for this piece. This is not calculated online and will be in addition to your purchase / standard delivery fee. Shipping & Delivery Options: In-Store Collection: This item can be collected… read more

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Clayton Alfresco Lantern

Clayton Alfresco Lantern

$160.00

For Australia-wide deliveries, an additional freight quote does apply for this piece. This is not calculated online and will be in addition to your purchase / standard delivery fee. Shipping & Delivery Options: In-Store Collection: This item can be collected… read more

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Bella Folding Outdoor Chair | Black

Bella Folding Outdoor Chair | Black

$205.00

For Australia-wide deliveries, an additional freight quote does apply for this piece. This is not calculated online and will be in addition to your purchase / standard delivery fee. Shipping & Delivery Options: In-Store Collection: This item can be collected… read more

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Image Source: Kara Childress

Welcoming Home Tip #2

Create a Welcoming Entryway

Your entryway introduces the style of your home. Combine practical storage with layered décor to make it both functional and inviting.

Ideas include:

  • A console table, bench, or hall stand with drawers or hooks.

  • Storage baskets, wall hooks, or a slim shoe rack.

  • A textured rug or runner to zone the space.

  • A decorative vignette following our 5 Ls of Styling: something loved, something with lustre, something living, layering, and lighting.

Shop our entryway furniturerugs, and home décor accents to style this transitional space.

Watch our Entryway Styling Video for More Ideas


Image Source: Sarah Solis

Welcoming Home Tip #3

Choose a Warm & Earthy Colour Palette

Earth tones naturally evoke calm, reassurance, and warmth. Shades such as ochre, sienna, taupe, rust, terracotta, and earthy greens pair beautifully with neutrals of black, white, grey, beige, and cream.

Layer these hues with natural materials like rattan, stone, linen, bamboo, or reclaimed timber to create depth and serenity.

Browse our cushionsthrows, and rugs in earthy tones to add warmth to your interiors.


Image Source: Top: Brooklyn Home Company. Bottom: Studio McGee

Welcoming Home Tip #4 

Arrange Conversational Furniture Layouts

The way you arrange furniture can foster connection and flow. Anchor seating with an area rug and orient pieces toward one another to create conversation zones.

Classic layouts include:

  • A sofa with chairs and a coffee table.

  • Two facing sofas.

  • A sectional sofa for casual gatherings.

  • An intimate circle of armchairs.

Ensure pathways remain clear for easy movement.

Discover our sofas and coffee tables to build conversational layouts with ease.


Image Source: Top: London Projects. Bottom: Andrea Benedettini

Welcoming Home Tip #5

Layer Your Lighting

Lighting shapes atmosphere. A well-planned scheme should include:

  • Ambient lighting: chandeliers, pendants, or ceiling mounts for overall illumination.

  • Accent lighting: wall sconces, picture lights, or spotlights to highlight artwork or architectural features.

  • Task lighting: table lamps, floor lamps, or wall-mounted lights for reading, cooking, or working.

Opt for warm light (2700–3000K) to mimic candlelight and create a cosy glow.

Shop our pendantslamps, and wall lights to layer lighting beautifully throughout your home.


Welcoming Home Tip #6

Infuse Personality with Artwork & Mirrors

Walls are the perfect canvas for self-expression.

  • Hang meaningful artworks that reflect your taste and story.

  • Curate a gallery wall of paintings, prints, or photographs in mixed frames.

  • Use mirrors to expand light and space, placing them strategically to capture greenery or architectural details.

Frames add character too—think antique gilt for elegance or rustic wood for casual charm.

Explore our art prints and decorative mirrors to infuse personality into your interiors.

FLAMANT BELGIUM | MIRROR OSMOND | W116 x D12 x H190cm

FLAMANT BELGIUM | MIRROR OSMOND | W116 x D12 x H190cm

$3,575.00

For Australia-wide deliveries, an additional freight quote does apply for this piece. This is not calculated online and will be in addition to your purchase / standard delivery fee. Shipping & Delivery Options: In-Store Collection: This item can be collected… read more

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Floral Elegance IX | Brown Bamboo Frame (BOWRAL)

Floral Elegance IX | Brown Bamboo Frame (BOWRAL)

$675.00

STORE PICK UP/LOCAL DELIVERY ONLY/FREIGHT QUOTE ON APPLICATION  Due to the size and weight of this piece we are unable to offer our regular Australia wide delivery.  For Australia-wide deliveries, a freight quote does apply for this piece.This is not calculated online… read more

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Photo Source: Suzie Anderson Home

Welcoming Home Tip #7

Bring in Living Energy

Plants breathe life into any room, offering freshness and movement.

Outdoors, consider seasonal wreaths, trailing vines, or flower boxes. Indoors, mix tall statement plants with small potted greenery, dried grasses, or fresh floral arrangements.

Shop our vasesplanters, and artificial greenery to enliven your home with living energy.

Phalaenopsis Emaline in White Vase

Phalaenopsis Emaline in White Vase

$589.00

Surprise everyone with the lifelike appearance and exceptional quality of the Phalaenopsis-Emaline Vase. This striking centerpiece, featuring delicate Phalaenopsis orchids, is set in a classic vase that beautifully combines traditional and modern elements. The captivating blend of colours and textures… read more

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Magnolia | Short Stem | 60cm | White

Magnolia | Short Stem | 60cm | White

$29.00

Introducing the Magnolia Short Stem in White – a delicate and charming floral arrangement that adds a touch of grace and elegance to your decor. Materials: The Magnolia Short Stem is carefully crafted from a blend of Eva, PVC, iron,… read more

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Photo Source: Suzie Anderson Home

Welcoming Home Tip #8

Create a Signature Scent

A welcoming home isn’t just about how it looks—it’s also about how it feels and smells. Scent has a powerful impact on mood, memory, and atmosphere, and introducing a signature fragrance can instantly make your interiors more inviting.

Consider layering scents throughout the home:

  • Diffusers or room sprays for consistent background fragrance.

  • Candles for ambience and intimacy in living spaces.

  • Hand wash and hand cream in the bathroom or powder room for a thoughtful touch.

Choose fragrances that reflect the mood you want to create—citrus and green notes for freshness, floral blends for elegance, or woody and amber bases for warmth and depth.

Explore our curated collection of home fragrancesdiffusers, and luxury candles to find the perfect signature scent for your home.

Flower Box | Interior Perfume | Flowers & Pears

Flower Box | Interior Perfume | Flowers & Pears

$49.00

Flowers & Pear - Interior Perfume (100ml)Patchouli, Freesia, Green Leaves, Fresh Pear, Amber & Cedar Wood An opulent fragrance, where the fresh top notes of Green Pear, Freesia, and Patchouli combine with the earthy richness of Amber and Cedar Wood.… read more

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Trudon | Hand wash 350ml | VIXI

Trudon | Hand wash 350ml | VIXI

$159.00

Drawing on Trudon’s heritage in Haute Parfumerie, Vixi introduces a sense of serene refinement to your daily routine. Part of the Maison’s first handcare collection, this luxurious liquid soap is inspired by the elegant toiletries once favoured by 18th-century European… read more

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Cire Trudon | Le Diffuser | Gabriel | 350ml

Cire Trudon | Le Diffuser | Gabriel | 350ml

$329.00

Shaped out of the same emblematic Trudon-green glass, the 350ml fluted container is adorned with a gold emblem, and allows a 3 to 4-month long, passive diffusion. Right on time for the festive season, the collection of Home Diffusers welcomes… read more

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Bonus Tip: Elevate Your Guest Bedroom

A welcoming guest room balances comfort and style.

Key elements include:

  • A bed layered with fresh linen, cushions, and throws.

  • Bedside tables with lamps, flowers, and a water carafe.

  • An armchair or ottoman for added comfort.

  • Storage solutions like baskets, hooks, and luggage holders.

Thoughtful extras such as robes, slippers, and a small amenities kit ensure guests feel at home.

Discover our bed linen, bedside lighting, and occasional furniture to create a serene guest retreat.



Photo Source: House and Garden


A welcoming home comes to life through layered textures, warm colours, thoughtful layouts, and personal touches. By enhancing curb appeal, styling your entry, and adding lighting, artwork, greenery, and guest comforts, you can create a home that feels inviting year-round.

Shop our latest new arrivals or visit us in-store to discover pieces that help you design a home you love.

When designing a home you love, the beauty is in the detail.

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FAQs

How can I make my home feel more welcoming for guests?

Focus on layering details that appeal to the senses—fresh curb appeal, a styled entryway, warm lighting, comfortable furniture layouts, meaningful artwork, greenery, and a signature scent. Small touches like fresh flowers, cosy throws, and guest room amenities go a long way.

What colours make a home feel warm and inviting?

Earthy tones such as ochre, terracotta, taupe, rust, and olive green naturally evoke calm and comfort. Pair them with soft neutrals like cream, beige, grey, and warm whites for balance.

How should I arrange my furniture for conversation?

Anchor seating areas with a rug and orient sofas and chairs toward one another. Options include two facing sofas, a sofa with armchairs opposite, or an intimate circle of chairs. Always leave clear walkways so the space feels open and easy to navigate.

What type of lighting creates a welcoming atmosphere?

A layered lighting scheme is best:

  • Ambient lighting (chandeliers, pendants) for overall glow.

  • Accent lighting (sconces, picture lights) to highlight features.

  • Task lighting (table and floor lamps) for practical use.

Choose warm-toned bulbs (2700–3000K) to mimic candlelight and create softness.

How do I add personality to a welcoming home?

Artwork and mirrors instantly personalise your space. Create a gallery wall, hang meaningful pieces, or use mirrors to reflect light and greenery. Frames also matter—ornate gilt adds elegance, while rustic wood adds casual charm.

How do I choose a signature scent for my home?

Select fragrances that match the mood you want to create:

  • Citrus or green notes for freshness.

  • Florals for elegance.

  • Woody and amber blends for warmth.

Layer candles, diffusers, and room sprays across different rooms for consistency.

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