You are starting in a stark white room, one window with a pull down shade and are feeling totally lost at how to make it warm and comfortable. Consider these ideas when trying to create a more cozy intimate space. Shadows block out areas and draw you more visually into the room. Directed lighting is exactly what it sounds like - light that you can direct where it lands.
Examples are table lamps, and standing lamps with down cast shades which create the shadows.
Be sure to use warm varieties of incandescent lighting instead of florescent or halogen. Books in bookcases add texture, as do baskets. This would not be a good place for black chrome arm chairs or lots of mirrors. Your furniture finishes should be textured instead of sleek. Every style of furniture could meets these criteria.