While lovely and airy, open plan houses don’t easily offer a “cozy factor.” And during the winter months, or in times of great stress, retreating to a British snug outfitted with soft throws and squishy pillows, surrounded by books, and bathed in soft light is right where I want to be.
What is a snug? If you are unfamiliar with the term, House and Home says, “A snug in England is a small den or room in a house where people can pursue activities in private. It is similar to a den in North America and can be used as a family room, library, home cinema, spare bedroom, study, or retreat.”
Generally situated off the kitchen, a snug looks and feels warm and, well… snuggly. And it should be filled with furnishings and personal artifacts that foster feelings of contentment, quiet, and (most importantly!) peace. Home Building UK defines it best, “A snug is a room that should be small, cozy and somewhere to go to relax, nestle down and forget any stresses the day may have thrown at you.” And these days, couldn’t we all use a room like that?
If you have no “extra space” in your home, carving out a snug can be achieved by delineating a corner in an existing room, partitioned off by a decorative folding screen, back-to-back bookcases to form a temporary wall, or even large potted trees in a pinch.
Who Will Be Using the Space?
The first step in designing your snug is deciding who will be using it. Will this be a private retreat just for you, or will it need to be used by family members, as well?
If this is meant to be your personal haven, you’ll have the freedom to design it according to your taste. However, if children or guests will also use the space, you may want to consider a more versatile layout. (A snug that sometimes serves as a family gathering spot may also require more durable furniture and multiple storage solutions.)
What Is the Purpose of Your Snug?
The room’s function will help you choose furnishings, as well as decor. Will this be a quiet place to read, complete jigsaw puzzles, or knit? If so, you’ll want task lighting, a comfy chair, and plenty of storage for books or craft supplies. If the space is meant for watching TV, consider a cozy sofa, a media unit, and dimmable lighting. Defining the purpose of your snug will ensure that the design functions properly.
How Much Space Is Realistically Available?
Even the smallest spaces can be transformed into a little retreat. If you have a compact room or even a nook, a soft armchair, footstool, and side table can create a hideaway that is perfect for reading. Wall-mounted shelves can provide book storage (without taking up valuable floor real estate). A well-placed mirror makes the space feel larger.
When working with limited square footage, it’s important to focus on essential pieces of furniture that maximize the room’s comfort, and ultimately, usability.
Will the Snug Need to Serve Multiple Purposes?
Will the space need to perform double (or triple!) duty? If your snug needs to be adaptable for multiple purposes, consider flexible furniture. For example, a Murphy Bed can quickly convert the space into a guest room, whilst a fold down wall desk transforms it into a home office.
Smart storage, from ottomans, to nesting tables, to built-in shelving can help keep your snug tidy and functional. (Click here for smart storage ideas.)
Once the functional aspects are settled, it’s time for my favorite part—decorating! To promote relaxation, it’s recommended that you choose a soft, welcoming color palette (for my space, it’s sage green). Any shade of blue is also calming. Or, go with warm earth tones (which are trending for 2025) for an enveloping, cocooning feel.
Soft textiles, such as plush throws and cushions, enhance the space’s coziness. And personal touches including meaningful artwork, scented candles, or a jungle of houseplants make the space uniquely yours.
With just a bit of planning, your snug will become the perfect retreat. (And, don’t forget the Keep Out sign!)
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Since 2009, Susan Said… WHAT?! has been your guide to real style for the way you live, from fabulous fashion and accessories, to gorgeous gardens and stunning interiors, plus the latest products and tips for throwing parties, weddings, and events of all kinds. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur and the co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!
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