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Author: Myrna Brest van Kempen

How to Turn Your Home into a Cozy Sanctuary: Cozymaxxing & Texture-Rich Interiors

Cozymaxxing is the interior trend of the moment. It’s all about warm living, soft materials, and spaces that feel like a hug. No more cold minimalism — instead, welcoming interiors full of layers, textures, and atmosphere. Perfect for anyone who wants a home that comforts, inspires, and looks amazing in Instagram or Pinterest-worthy makeovers.

What is Cozymaxxing?

Cozymaxxing means maximizing comfort. Surround yourself with soft fabrics, warm tones, and inviting nooks. This trend blends the hygge coziness with a luxurious, rich interior feel. Ideal for anyone who wants a home that radiates warmth and personality.

Why this trend is so popular

We spend more time at home than ever, so creating a comfortable and safe environment matters. Texture-rich interiors offer a sense of peace and security. They also look stunning on camera — perfect for social media and home staging.

Step-by-step: Create your own cozy sanctuary

1. Use soft, touchable materials

  • Bouclé for sofas and armchairs
  • Wool in throws, rugs and cushions
  • Chenille and velvet for tactile richness

Mix textures for a layered look: combine a bouclé armchair with a wool throw and velvet cushions.

2. Choose warm, harmonious colours

Warm earthy tones like sand, terracotta, moss green and caramel instantly create atmosphere. Add soft pastels to keep things light and playful.

3. Layer your textiles

  • Layered rugs for warmth and luxury
  • Multiple cushions in different shapes and fabrics
  • Soft curtains for a cocoon-like effect

4. Lighting: the key to atmosphere

Cozymaxxing loves warm lighting — say goodbye to harsh white light. Use dimmed bulbs, multiple light sources and candles. Wall and table lamps bring depth and coziness.

5. Create inviting “cozy corners”

A reading nook with a comfy chair, soft throw, and small side table brings calm and comfort — the perfect escape after a long day.

Perfect for interior styling & social media

This style is extremely photogenic. The rich textures and warm tones instantly draw the eye on camera. Cozymaxxing is ideal for home staging, ELLE Decor-inspired makeovers and inspiring reels or Pinterest posts.

Conclusion: choose comfort and warmth

Cozymaxxing turns your home into a space where you can truly unwind. By using soft materials, warm tones and inviting corners, you create an interior that embraces you. Give comfort the spotlight and transform your home into a cozy sanctuary you’ll love coming back to.

Discover How We Transform Your Space at Myrna Interior

Are you ready for an interior that truly makes you happy? At Myrna Interior, we combine interior design, interior styling, and home staging to turn your home into a place you can be proud of. And yes, we love doing this — and preferably together with you.

Why choose interior design with a personal touch?

Your interior is more than furniture and colors. It reflects who you are and how you want to live. At Myrna Interior, we always start with your story: who you are, what you love, how you use the space. We then design with an eye for detail: layout, materials, lighting, and atmosphere come together to make your home both beautiful and practical.

Our interior design service includes:

  • An intake session focused entirely on your wishes.
  • A custom mood board with color and material advice.
  • A final design including technical drawings and furniture suggestions.

Interior styling: give your space that full “wow” effect

Do you already have furniture and accessories but feel like something is still missing? Then our interior styling service is what you need. Styling adds immediate character to your space: accessories, textures, lighting — all tailored to your lifestyle.

Why styling makes a difference:

  • Your space feels instantly more inviting and complete.
  • Good styling improves your everyday living experience — and the impression visitors have.
  • We enhance what you already have and add the missing spark.

Home staging: sell faster and for a better price

Are you planning to sell your home? With our home staging service, we give your property the attention it deserves. At Myrna Interior, we know exactly what buyers are looking for and how to make your space appealing to a broad audience.

Our home staging service includes:

  • A free assessment of your property.
  • A personalized staging plan adapted to your budget and goals.
  • Professional execution + prepared photography suitable for listing platforms.

Why Myrna Interior is the partner you’re looking for

Myrna Brest van Kempen, founder of Myrna Interior, trained in interior design and home staging and brings extensive experience to every project. Our approach combines creativity with results: whether it’s your dream home or boosting the value of your property — we do it together, tailored to your needs, with careful attention.

Are you ready for your ideal space?

Imagine an interior that perfectly fits your style and daily life, or a home that looks irresistible to potential buyers. At Myrna Interior, we make this reality. Contact us today for a non-binding introductory meeting — we’re happy to discuss your ideas and possibilities.

Let your home shine the way it should. Together, we’ll turn your space into something truly special. Myrna Interior is ready for you.

Dopamine Decor: Colorful, Playful, and Joyful Design for Your Interior

Dopamine Decor is the interior trend for anyone who longs for a home filled with energy, color, and positivity. No minimalism, but maximalism with a smile. This style revolves around bright colors, interesting prints, and personal objects that boost your daily dose of happiness. Discover how to apply this trend easily in your own space.

What Is Dopamine Decor?

Dopamine Decor is inspired by the idea that color and creativity can influence your mood. By filling your home with playful elements, vibrant tones, and items with emotional value, you create a space that literally gives you a happiness boost.

Why Does Dopamine Decor Work So Well?

The secret lies in combining color psychology, personal expression, and a touch of boldness. This style gives interiors a fresh, optimistic appearance and makes every room unique. Especially for interior styling and home staging, it’s a powerful way to add atmosphere and personality.

  • Bright colors increase the feeling of energy and spaciousness.
  • Playful patterns make a room feel more dynamic.
  • Personal objects create a warmer and more inviting home.

Bold Colors: The Heart of Dopamine Decor

This trend is all about color. Think of bright yellow, coral red, turquoise, or fuchsia. These tones come together to create a vibrant whole that makes your interior shine.

You don’t need to paint your entire house; start with a single wall, a colorful rug, or striking cushions. Small accents can make a big impact.

Interesting Prints for Extra Character

Prints play an important role in the dopamine style. Floral prints, abstract shapes, retro patterns, or graphic lines: everything is allowed, as long as it’s playful and eye-catching.

Feel free to mix patterns—if you stick to a consistent color palette, the space will remain harmonious. This keeps your interior visually appealing without becoming chaotic.

Personal Objects with a Story

Dopamine Decor isn’t complete without items that reflect your personality. Think of heirlooms, souvenirs, handmade art, or books that inspire you. These objects add depth and create a warm, recognizable atmosphere.

  • Meaningful artworks
  • Colorful vases or vintage finds
  • Photos, cards, or small collections

How to Apply Dopamine Decor in Different Spaces

In the living room, you can work with a statement wall or a mix of playful accessories. In the bedroom, cheerful bedding and colorful bedside lamps create a light and lively feel. Even in the hallway, you can set the tone with a bold-colored front door or an eye-catching coat rack.

Conclusion: Make Your Interior Happier Than Ever

Dopamine Decor is the perfect style for anyone who wants an interior that radiates happiness, optimism, and creativity. With bright colors, interesting prints, and meaningful personal objects, you build a home that truly tells your story. It’s playful, surprising, and above all, uplifting—a design trend that brings joy every single day.

Color Explosion in Interior Design: Dare to Choose Rich, Saturated Shades

A color explosion at home is the interior trend of the moment. After years of minimalistic and neutral tones, rich, saturated colors such as aubergine, navy blue and teal green are making a comeback. These colors instantly add personality and luxury to any room—without needing to renovate your entire home.

Why Color Is Making a Comeback

Interior design is shifting from “safe and neutral” to “expressive and full of character.” Colors influence our mood and define the atmosphere of a space. That’s why more people are choosing deep tones that bring warmth, depth, and a sense of elegance.

The Psychology Behind Deep Colors

  • Aubergine: Creative, luxurious, and dramatic.
  • Navy blue: Trust, calmness, and sophistication.
  • Teal green: Balance, nature-inspired, and refreshing energy.

These colors work beautifully in spaces where you want to create tranquility and luxury, such as living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and home offices.

How to Incorporate a Color Explosion into Your Interior

A common misconception is that dark colors make a room feel smaller. Often, the opposite is true: deep tones can make a space feel warm and intimate. The secret lies in balance.

Accent Wall or Full Transformation?

  • Accent wall: Perfect if you want to start small. Choose one wall in aubergine or teal and pair it with light furniture.
  • Statement room: Go all-in and paint multiple walls in the same tone to create a cocoon of luxury and atmosphere.

Play with Textures and Materials

Deep colors come to life when combined with rich materials. Consider:

  • Velvet in sofas or decorative cushions
  • Brass or gold-colored accents
  • Wood with a warm tone

This enhances the feeling of luxury without making the room feel overwhelming.

Using Color in Different Interior Styles

Whether you prefer modern, classic, bohemian, or hotel-chic — saturated tones work surprisingly well across styles.

  • Modern minimalist: Navy blue with clean white details and lots of light.
  • Hotel chic: Aubergine paired with gold accents and rich materials.
  • Scandinavian: Teal green as a natural accent against light wood.

Conclusion: Color = Boldness + Style

The color explosion trend is all about daring to choose. Aubergine, navy blue, and teal green bring warmth, luxury, and personality to your interior. Start small with accessories or go for a complete transformation. Whatever you choose — color adds energy and makes your space truly unique.

Biophilic and sustainable interior: What is it and how do you create it?

More and more people are choosing an interior that radiates peace, health, and a strong connection to nature. Biophilic design, intentionally integrating nature into indoor spaces, is no longer just a trend, but a lifestyle. By combining this with sustainable materials and conscious decisions, you create a space that feels good and is good for the planet.

What is a biophilic interior?

A biophilic interior focuses on strengthening the connection between humans and nature inside living spaces. It goes beyond “placing a plant”. It is a design philosophy where natural elements, materials, and light are the foundation so that your home becomes a healthy and energizing space.

Core principles of biophilic design

  • Natural materials such as wood, linen, rattan, or bamboo
  • Organic shapes and soft lines in furniture and accessories
  • Lots of natural daylight and connection to the outdoors
  • A nature-inspired color palette (greens, earth tones, sand colors)
  • Plants and living greenery as part of the styling

What makes an interior sustainable?

Sustainable interior design focuses on conscious material choices and minimizing waste. That means investing in quality furniture that lasts, choosing recycled materials, and reusing existing pieces. Your home becomes more beautiful while reducing your environmental footprint.

Key characteristics of sustainable interior design

  • Furniture made from sustainable materials such as FSC wood or bamboo
  • Choosing eco-friendly paint and finishes
  • Giving vintage or second-hand items a new purpose
  • Investing in long-lasting quality instead of impulse buying décor

How to create a biophilic and sustainable interior?

1. Bring nature inside

Plants are the foundation of a biophilic interior. Choose easy air-purifying plants such as Monstera, Fern, or Sansevieria. Combine different heights to create depth and group plants to keep the space visually calm.

2. Use natural materials

Materials like wood, rattan, linen, and wool bring warmth and calmness. They age beautifully and fit perfectly into sustainable living. Choose one high-quality statement piece rather than multiple fast-decor items.

3. Optimize natural light

Natural daylight has a huge influence on your well-being. Keep windows open, choose light curtains, and use mirrors to reflect daylight and visually enlarge the space.

4. Upcycle and reuse

Give old furniture a second life with new upholstery or sustainable paint. This makes your interior personal and unique — and better for the environment.

Conclusion

A biophilic and sustainable interior is more than a décor style: it’s a conscious choice for well-being, creativity, and responsibility. By using natural materials, adding plants, and opting for sustainable solutions, you create a home that radiates peace while being future-proof.

10 interior tricks that make your home look more expensive

You don’t need to spend a fortune to give your home a luxurious look. With a few clever interior tricks – based on psychology and styling principles – you can create a stylish, high-end atmosphere that impresses everyone who walks in. Whether you’re focused on home staging or just want to elevate your space, these tips always work.

1. Play with symmetry

Symmetry brings balance, calmness, and a sense of luxury. Place two identical lamps on a console table or arrange cushions evenly on your sofa. Our brains associate symmetry with order and refinement – exactly what a high-end home reflects.

2. Use color psychology

Colors influence how we feel in a space. Neutral tones like beige, taupe, and soft gray create elegance, while deep accents like navy blue or emerald green add depth and richness. Mix warm and cool shades for visual harmony.

3. Add layers with textures

Luxury is something you feel, not just see. Combine different materials such as velvet, linen, wool, and wood. This creates visual depth and makes your interior interesting without feeling cluttered.

4. Think big: oversized accents

A large mirror, oversized artwork, or statement vase instantly draws attention. Big pieces make a space look more spacious and sophisticated – unlike too many small accessories that can feel chaotic.

5. Invest in lighting

Lighting sets the mood. Use a mix of functional and ambient lighting: ceiling lights, floor lamps, and candles. Warm white light creates an inviting and luxurious ambiance, perfect for daily life or home staging.

6. Create visual height

Hang curtains higher than the window and use long, flowing fabrics. This makes ceilings appear taller and spaces larger – a classic staging trick that always works.

7. Minimize clutter

A tidy home instantly feels more luxurious. Hide cables, use baskets or boxes for storage, and keep surfaces clear. Less is more isn’t just a saying – it’s proven psychology.

8. Add a personal touch

Luxury is not only about appearance, it’s also about emotion. A carefully chosen photo, artwork, or heirloom adds personality and memorability to your space. Authentic details capture emotional attention.

9. Create harmony

Use a consistent color palette throughout your home. Repeat tones, materials, or shapes to create flow and visual calmness. This gives your interior a professional, cohesive look.

10. Use scent intentionally

A subtle fragrance of wood, linen, or vanilla enhances the feeling of luxury. Our brains connect scent directly to emotion – a pleasant smell makes visitors perceive your home as more elegant and comfortable.

Conclusion

Luxury isn’t about money – it’s about thoughtful design choices. By using symmetry, color, texture, and light strategically, you can give any space a refined upgrade. Whether you’re staging your home or simply want to live in a space that feels like a boutique hotel, these psychological interior tricks always deliver. Start small, think big, and watch your home transform.

How do I prepare my interior for winter?

Winter is just around the corner — the days are getting shorter, the temperatures are dropping, and we’re spending more time indoors. That makes this the perfect moment to transform your interior into a warm, cozy space where you can relax and recharge. In this article, you’ll discover how to make your home winter-ready easily and stylishly.

1. Create warmth with color

Colors have a huge impact on the atmosphere in your home. In winter, everything can feel a bit warmer and cozier. Think of deep shades like burgundy, dark green, mustard yellow, or warm earthy tones. These colors bring calm and a sense of comfort to any space.

  • Use accessories in warm tones, such as cushions, throws, and candles.
  • Consider adding an accent wall in a deep color for extra character.
  • Choose natural materials like wood and wool to keep everything balanced.

2. Add textures for a cozy feel

The key to a winterproof interior is layering and texture. Think of soft fabrics and chunky weaves that bring warmth both literally and visually.

  • Lay down a thick rug — perfect for keeping your feet warm.
  • Move away from minimalism and add extra cushions and throws to your sofa or bed.
  • Use materials like velvet, wool, and (faux) fur for extra softness.

3. Play with lighting

Good lighting is essential during the winter months. Natural daylight becomes scarce, so artificial light plays a bigger role. Combine different types of lighting to create the right atmosphere:

  • Use warm, dimmable bulbs for an intimate ambiance.
  • Place several small light sources instead of one bright lamp.
  • Candles and lanterns add that typical cozy winter feeling.

4. Make space for comfort

Comfort is the key to a winter-ready interior. Small changes can make a big difference in how inviting your home feels.

  • Replace light summer fabrics with heavier curtains for extra insulation.
  • Create a comfortable reading nook with a soft chair and a warm throw.
  • Remove unnecessary items — a tidy home creates a calm mind.

5. Bring nature indoors

Nature remains a wonderful source of inspiration, even in winter. Greenery makes any interior feel more lively and healthy.

  • Choose houseplants that thrive in low light, such as sansevieria or ferns.
  • Decorate with natural accents: wooden bowls, pinecones, or dried flowers.
  • Use scented candles with pine, cinnamon, or cedarwood for a natural winter fragrance.

In conclusion

A winter-ready interior is all about warmth, comfort, and coziness. With small adjustments — from color and lighting to texture and natural accents — you can transform your home into a place you love spending time in during the cold months. Let winter come: your interior is more than ready.

How much does home staging cost and what does it bring?

Imagine your parents want to sell their house. They’ve lived there happily for years, but now it’s time for something new. But… how can you make sure the house stands out among all the others on the market? That’s where home staging comes in! But what exactly is it, how much does it cost, and why is it worth spending money on?

What is home staging?

Home staging means that someone – a home stylist – helps make a house look nicer, tidier, and more attractive to potential buyers. It’s a bit like giving your home a makeover before it’s photographed for an advertisement.

The stylist looks at furniture, colors, lighting, and small details. Sometimes things are rearranged, extra decoration is added, or small repairs are done, like painting a wall. The goal is for visitors to immediately think: “Wow, I could totally live here!”

How much does home staging cost?

The cost of home staging can vary depending on what’s needed. Here are a few examples:

  • Small styling: The stylist gives tips or changes a few small things. This usually costs between €150 and €300.
  • Full styling: The entire house is styled, sometimes with rented furniture or decorations. This usually costs between €500 and €1,500.
  • Complete makeover: Empty homes are harder to sell, so sometimes the stylist furnishes the entire space. This can cost €1,500 to €3,000.

That might sound like a lot of money, but it’s often a smart investment!

What does home staging bring?

A nicely styled and tidy home usually sells faster and for a better price. Buyers can more easily imagine themselves living there. Here are a few benefits:

  • The home stands out online.
  • The photos look much more attractive.
  • Buyers feel “at home” faster.
  • The selling price can be 3% to 10% higher.

For a house worth €400,000, that means an extra €12,000 to €40,000 in profit. That’s a lot more than the cost of home staging!

Why does it work so well?

People don’t just buy with their heads — they buy with their hearts. A fresh, bright, and cozy home leaves a much better impression than a dark, cluttered one. Home staging highlights the best features of a home without distractions.

It’s a bit like a school open day: you clean everything up, put out flowers, and make it look inviting. That’s exactly what a home stylist does — but with houses!

Conclusion: a smart step toward a faster sale

Home staging may cost some money, but it often brings much more in return. A well-styled home sells faster, attracts more viewers, and usually sells for a higher price. It’s a smart move for anyone selling their home — and who knows, maybe one day you’ll become a home stylist helping houses shine too!

Bring extra atmosphere into your home during the dark winter and Christmas days

The winter months bring shorter days, colder evenings, and a longing for warmth and coziness. While it’s dark and chilly outside, you can transform your home into a snug and inviting space filled with light, color, and atmosphere. Whether your style is modern, rustic, or Scandinavian – with a few smart interior and styling tips, you can create a warm winter haven full of charm and comfort.

1. Play with Warm Lighting

Lighting is the key to creating atmosphere, especially in the darker months. Avoid bright white light and go for soft, warm tones. Use multiple light sources at different heights to add depth and coziness.

  • Place table lamps with warm bulbs on sideboards and accent tables.
  • Use dimmable lights to adjust the mood throughout the day.
  • Add candles or LED wax lights for a romantic glow.

2. Bring Warmth Through Textures

The right materials can make a huge difference. Think soft fabrics, natural materials, and warm colors. Combining different textures makes your space instantly feel richer and more comfortable.

  • Throw a wool or faux-fur blanket over your sofa.
  • Swap smooth cushions for velvet or knitted ones.
  • Use rugs to soften cold floors and visually connect spaces.

3. Add Natural Elements

Natural accents bring peace and balance to your interior – perfect for the winter season. Think of wood, pinecones, branches, or dried flowers. They subtly connect your home to nature, even when it’s freezing outside.

  • Create a Christmas arrangement with eucalyptus and pine for a fresh scent.
  • Place wooden accessories or rattan baskets for a warm look.
  • Use green plants or winter flowers to add life.

4. Create Cozy Corners

Winter calls for intimate spots where you can unwind. Think of a reading nook by the window, a soft rug by the fireplace, or a warm place on the couch with plenty of cushions. Small adjustments can make any space feel welcoming.

  • Set up a comfortable armchair next to a floor lamp for the perfect reading spot.
  • Use scented candles or essential oils for extra warmth and relaxation.
  • Hang a string of lights along a window or mirror for a subtle Christmas touch.

5. Colors That Radiate Warmth

The right color palette has a huge impact on atmosphere. Combine deep tones with soft neutrals for balance. Think earthy browns, burgundy, mustard yellow, and forest green – colors that instantly evoke a cozy feeling.

Tip for Interior Designers and Home Stagers

Want to make a home extra appealing during the holidays? Use light, scent, and warmth as subtle emotional triggers. A cozy interior lets visitors or potential buyers feel how wonderful it is to be there – and that feeling lasts.

Conclusion

The dark winter months are the perfect time to transform your home into a warm and inviting sanctuary. With the right mix of lighting, textures, natural details, and colors, you can create that signature winter coziness everyone loves. Let the season inspire you and turn your interior into a peaceful retreat full of comfort, light, and charm.

Myrna Interior in the spotlight: Tips and insights on interior and sales styling

At the end of this month, an engaging article about Myrna Interior will appear in Business Haaglanden. For anyone interested in interior design, interior styling, and home staging, this is a perfect opportunity to gain inspiration and discover practical tips to elevate your home or project to the next level.

Why Interior Design and Home Staging Are Becoming Increasingly Important

In a competitive housing market, the difference between a quick sale and months of uncertainty often comes down to how a property is presented. Professionally furnished and styled homes make it easier for potential buyers to imagine themselves living there. But the benefits go beyond that:

  • Higher selling price: Staged homes typically sell for 5 to 10% more on average.
  • Faster sale: Professionally staged properties often sell within 5 to 20 days instead of 30 to 60 days.
  • Emotional impact: A well-designed home creates an immediate positive first impression, increasing the likelihood of receiving an offer.

Practical Tips from Myrna Interior

Although the Business Haaglanden article offers a deeper look into specific projects, here are some practical insights every homeowner can apply:

  • Focus on key rooms: Living room, kitchen, dining area, bathroom, and at least one bedroom deserve extra attention.
  • Accessories and details: Small elements like cushions, plants, and lighting can make a huge difference in atmosphere and appeal.
  • Logical layout: Ensure rooms feel spacious and organized so buyers can see their potential.
  • Professional photography: A proper presentation on websites and property portals can significantly speed up the sale.

Investment vs. Return

Many homeowners hesitate due to the cost of home staging. However, an investment of a few thousand euros can deliver significant returns upon sale. On average, the ratio between styling costs and added value is heavily in favor of the seller. For example, investing €4,000 to €7,000 can easily result in tens of thousands of euros in extra revenue.

Why Myrna Interior Is a Reliable Partner

Myrna Interior combines creativity with strategic insight. From creating a furniture plan to on-site styling and assisting with the photoshoot, every detail is carefully tailored. This not only ensures a flawless presentation but also creates an optimal selling experience for homeowners, businesses, and real estate agents alike.

Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Interior

Whether you want to sell your home or simply seek inspiration for a fresh, stylish interior, Myrna Interior’s expertise provides valuable guidance. At the end of this month, Business Haaglanden will showcase how this company transforms homes and maximizes sales opportunities. It’s the perfect moment to get inspired, present your home at its best, and make smart choices for both style and investment.