cozylifebysema

Welcome to Maison Cozy. People often ask me how I style my home in Istanbul to look so full yet so peaceful. They ask about my color palettes or where I buy my furniture. But the truth is, my method isn’t technical—it’s purely emotional.

If you want to create a home that feels like a warm hug, here are the 4 rules I live by.

1. Decorate with Memories, Not Trends

I have never tried to “fill” a room just for the sake of it. For me, every single object must have a story. I don’t choose items based on strict color codes; I choose them based on the memories they hold. When you surround yourself with things that have a past and a meaning, they naturally find a way to harmonize with each other. The harmony comes from the soul of the objects, not their price tags.

2. The Heart is the Architect

Where do I start when decorating a room? I always start with my heart. I don’t use 3D programs or mood boards. I simply look at a space, close my eyes, and visualize how an item will feel there. If my heart says “yes,” it always fits perfectly in reality too. Trust your intuition; it knows your home better than any designer.

3. The “Golden Hour” Lighting Rule

You will never see a cold, white light in my home. All my lights are yellow (warm white). But it’s not just about the bulb; it’s about how that light touches the room. When warm light hits the texture of a vintage rug or a velvet cushion, it creates an “authentic, slow rhythm” in the house. Lighting is the makeup of your home—make it warm, make it soft.

4. The “Old Partner” Philosophy

I rarely buy brand-new items. But even when a new piece enters my home, it is never alone. I have a rule: “Every new item must have an old partner with a soul.”

I always pair something new with something vintage. This balance prevents the house from feeling like a showroom and keeps it grounded in history.

Creating a sanctuary takes time. Listen to your heart, collect memories, and let your home tell your story.

Sema Eker

Maison Cozy & Life