10 Winter Decorating Ideas to Update a Small Living Room

Decorating a small living room can be challenging, especially when you want to create a cozy space that doesn’t feel cramped. But as temperatures drop, consider embracing your small room’s natural coziness for the winter season. Add a few new touches, and it can become a warm, inviting, and delightfully festive space. Here are ten winter decorating ideas to make a big impact in a small living room. 

Swap Out Your Pillows

One of the easiest ways to decorate for winter is by swapping out those summer or fall pillows for winter ones, says interior designer Amy Switzer. Switching up textiles with each season is like giving your space a fresh breath of life. “Think chunky knits and cozy wool for fall, lush velvet pillows that invite warmth, and deeper, richer tones that ground your room for the new season,” Switzer says. Skip the snowmen and Santas and go for something timeless instead. If you don’t have abundant storage space, just change out the pillowcases instead of the whole pillow. (You’ll also save money this way.)

Get a Cozy Throw

That light summer throw probably won’t keep you warm on frosty winter nights, so it’s best to put it away for the season—then swap in a blanket that’s as cozy as possible. A bright white faux fur throw is great for snuggling up on movie nights. If that isn’t your style, a burgundy chenille throw is worth considering, especially with that color being so on-trend this year. Be sure to choose a larger throw, so you can wrap yourself up and then drape it over the entire sofa when you aren’t using it. This adds an extra dose of winter color and texture to your living room.

Burn Winter Candles

Who doesn’t love the many scents of winter? Even if you don’t have much space, a candle or two won’t add clutter and can impact the mood and feel of your living room. There are also so many wonderful ways to make your home smell chic, whether you go with a classic fir scent or a sophisticated vetiver and bergamot—the options are seemingly endless.

Consider a Mini Christmas Tree

You probably won’t be able to recreate the iconic Rockefeller Center holiday display in a small living room, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a tree at all. Consider using a miniature Christmas tree and decorate it with some of your favorite ornaments and ribbons. Real or artificial, a tabletop tree can feel just as exciting as a big one. You can also get creative and consider one of these alternatives to a typical tree.

Buy an Electric Fireplace

There’s nothing like the vibe a fireplace can create in the winter. But if you have a small living room, you probably don’t have a fireplace. So, consider investing in a small electric one that can sit in an empty corner; there are so many styles available in a variety of price ranges, which means there’s something for everyone. Decorative mantels can also help you get the effect, without taking up much space in the room.

Hang Stockings (Even if You Don’t Have a Mantel)

There’s something so nice and traditional about hanging stockings—but just because you don’t have a mantel doesn’t mean this isn’t an option. Hang stockings on a windowsill, a free-standing stocking holder, or even your coat rack. Even if your family is just you and your pet, it doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate this fun touch.

Add Some Winter Art

Swapping out your art seasonally is a great (and easy) way to give your living room a little makeover. As with pillows, you don’t need pictures of Santa or word art that reads “’tis the season.” Instead, choose black-and-white shots of snowy scenes or vintage paintings from a local thrift shop or estate sale.

Hang New Curtains

Do you still have those sheer summer curtains hanging in your living room? Why not change them out for something that feels more like the current season? Go for plaid, velvet, or chenille. You don’t have to choose red or green—metallics such as gold or silver can act as neutrals and complement the rest of your space. If you want to add a little holiday kitsch (we don’t blame you for liking it!), consider tying back your curtains with a ribbon or bow.

Incorporate Small Doses of Winter Decor

You might not realize that your current decor scheme leans toward summer or fall, so consider changing out the little things. “Small seasonal accessories—like a candle with cinnamon and cedar, jewel-toned floral arrangements, or even touches of winter whites—are easy additions that bring a dynamic shift without needing a complete overhaul,” Switzer says. “Embracing these small changes transforms your home for the upcoming season, yet keeping it both fresh and welcoming all year round.”

For example, instead of the rattan tray you use to corral remotes, consider keeping them on a holiday-themed tray you might already own. Or add metallic bookends on your bookshelf. Stack red and green books on your coffee table and top with a snow-flake-shaped candy dish. Even just a few minor touches can help create a festive mood.

Go With a Garland or Two

You don’t need a staircase or mantel to enjoy classic holiday garlands. You might incorporate them on your windowsills or wrap them around a doorway. Keep it subtle for the best effect—there’s no need to cover every single surface.