As the winter begins to loom large, thoughts of log fires and steaming cups of cocoa come to mind. With a howling wind and driving rain hitting the windows, your home becomes your refuge. It’s time to batten down the hatches and cozy up this winter.
Turning on radiators and lighting fires are ways to keep warm. But, your home can be made to look, and feel, cozy with a few subtle additions.
Cushions
Cushions are an interior designer’s staple soft furnishing. Cushions are available in a vast array of styles, colors and sizes which makes them suitable for every household. Cushions add texture, character, and warmth to seating areas around the home. They provide warm back supports on sofas. Hard wooden dining chairs are instantly softened with cushioned pads. A modest bedstead is transformed into a hotbed of style and opulence as multiple cushions cozy up to pillows. Country cottage window seats and wooden hall benches become comfy, restful spaces with the addition of a cushion. From pocket-size to floor size, squashy cushions are this winter’s must-have home accessory.
Covers
Electric blankets were once the go-to bedding choice as the winter set in. However, today’s modern homeowner has switched to a something a little less hazardous! Following the continued popularity of all things vintage, patterned quilts have returned to beds. The old-fashioned eiderdown has had a makeover, with pretty squares adding a welcome layer of warmth. Hand-stitched quilts are beautiful pieces that make unique gifts for a loved on this winter. Or treat yourself to one and be converted to this timeless bed-warmer.
Wool and faux fur throws provide a stylish addition to beds and sofas. Cosy up under a warm blanket by the fireside with a book in hand. For the ultimate comfort-fest, nothing beats the heavy toggle duvet. Invest in goose or duck down for a touch of luxury that’s feather soft. Buy a king size duvet for a double bed so there’s extra material to wrap yourself in.
Window Dressings
Thick, velvet drapes and swags add instant glamour to any home. Warm, rich materials and colors dress up windows for the winter. Large picture windows or patio doors provide a cozy feel when curtains are drawn at night. They keep out the drafts and add a layer of protection against the cold outdoors. Roman blinds provide a stylish alternative to heavy drapes. With folds of fabric dressing the window, the room becomes cozy and enclosed as soon as daylight is omitted. Blackout blinds are ideal for homes surrounded by security lights or street lights. The darker the room, the more cozy and warm it feels.
Lighting
Lighting is a clever way to change the ambiance of a room. Dimmer switches instantly create a soft space and warm feeling. Replace high wattage bulbs with weaker ones to produce lower levels of light. Lit candles flicker and glow while casting shadows around the room. Reducing the number of lights is a good way to save energy. It is also a clever way to reduce the appearance of large open space. As the night falls, keep some areas in complete darkness, while lighting smaller areas. Lighting a room this way makes space feel more compact and… cozy.
Photo by Alex Holt
Mia Guerra
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