The nights are drawing in and there’s a definite chill in the air. Hibernate in comfort this winter by making your home into a cosy haven. Here’s how.
1. Cuddle up under a blanket – or five
Layer your furniture with throws and blankets to create a gorgeously warm nest. Think luxurious cashmere, soft velvet or butter soft linen.
And there’s no reason to stop at one! Spread a throw over your couch and keep a pretty cotton blanket on top to go over your lap and you’ll be in snuggly heaven. Add some cushions in case the urge to nap strikes.
Don’t forget your bed, either. Flannel sheets, thick fleece throws, and warm sheepskin rugs will make the space warm and inviting. The only problem might be getting up the next morning!
2. Create ambient lighting
Get rid of the bright overheads and create warm pools of light with clever lighting designs. Harsh light can wash out your space and make it feel cold and forbidden. By using a combination of lamps and other small lights, you can use the light to your advantage instead.
Coloured glass lamps or fabric lampshades can soften and warm your space and are easily changed out to match your current colour scheme.
You can ramp up the romance with candles, or electric candles that look like the real thing, or invest in a salt lamp and enjoy its amber glow.
3. Scent the air
Tickle your sense of smell with a scented candle or oil burner. Warm scents like sandalwood or cinnamon can help infuse your home with sensory warmth. Orange, rosewood and cardamon are also excellent choices for some sweet and spicy charm.
If you choose an oil diffuser, they also do double duty as a humidifier. That makes them ideal for combating the dry air that winter heaters can cause. And if you’re down with the winter sniffles, a bit of eucalyptus oil does wonder!
4. Lay soft rugs underfoot
Winter floors are chilly, especially if you have timber floorboards or tiles underfoot. A plush rug offers insulation for the home and sensory delight for your feet. Choose one that you can wriggle your toes in, with a soft thick texture and harmonious colour scheme. Wool is an excellent insulator, and durable enough for high traffic areas, while
5. Luxe up the bathroom
Is there anything better than sinking into a hot bath on a cold night? Turn your bathroom into an indulgent retreat with thick fluffy towels and a soft bathmat. A scented candle is an easy way to pump up the enjoyment — pair it with a bath bomb for a scent explosion! Tray tables designed for your bath mean you can take a glass of wine and a book in there with you and soak for as long as you like.
Worried about stepping out of the bath and into a cold room? Bathroom heaters are widely available and can be installed easily on your wall.
6. Create a colour scheme that glows
Winter isn’t the time for cool whites and neutrals, so take the opportunity to play with some colour. You don’t need to paint: you can amp up the warmth with throws, cushions and artwork.
Try pairing deep forest greens, glowing violets and velvety browns against your existing neutrals to create a sense of warmth and drama. Bright pops of yellow or pink can brighten up a room when it’s grey outside and work well against cool colour palettes.
7. Bounce the light around
Mirrors and metallics reflect the light from outside and bounce it around your home to light it up. Add a large wall mirror to the lounge, try a metallic lampshade or arrange some shiny ornaments around the room. You’ll get some much needed sparkle in your life, and as a bonus, the room will appear larger.
Creating a winter haven doesn’t need to take a lot of time, effort or even money. With some thoughtful touches you can create a delightfully cosy space that will be welcoming to you and your guests.