As the nights draw in and the summer sun makes way for the autumn chill, cosy nights in front of the fire with the curtains drawn and candles are called for to beat the cooler nights.
And now, before temperatures drop too much, is the perfect time to think about making your home warm and cosy for the colder months and beyond to keep you feeling comfortable at home when the summer days are but a mere memory.
Winter comfort isn’t just turning the heating up; it’s about creating an atmosphere that screams warmth and encourages you to envelop yourself in the textures and soft lighting to make the colder days that little bit more bearable.
Layers of Softness
Start with the things you can really sink into. Throws that drown you under the plush fibres, cushions you can sink your head into, and chunky knits that protect your body from the biting cold. Say goodbye to those summer linens and cottons that are light and breathable, and invest in fabrics you can really snuggle into.
Short on funds? Look for linings you can add to curtains. You only have to give them more weight to block out the cold and dark outside. Layer your blankets, starting with thin ones that envelop your body and thicker ones like your duvet or comforter, then add a thicker quilt or blanket on top to help trap the heat.
Warmth Underfoot
Nothing screams winter like a cold hardwood floor first thing in the morning, and while hardwood floors are amazing aesthetic and practical options for your home, they’re not exactly the embodiment of warmth and comfort.
Consider adding carpets to the colder rooms of the house to make them cosier for winter. You can also layer rugs over hardwood flooring if you prefer. But there are plenty of flooring options from retailers such as Urmston Carpets that can help you find the perfect option for your home.
Top tip: don’t forget underlay, because even under laminate, vinyl, or hardwood flooring, this can still offer warmth, reduce heat loss, and keep your flooring from wearing too quickly.
Tackle Draughts
No one likes that draught coming into the living room from under the doors or blowing the curtains, thanks to gaps in the sealant around the windows. Now is the perfect time to go around your home and make sure you have identified and rectified any areas where air is escaping or getting into the room. Not only can this reduce your energy bills, but it’ll also stop you feeling cold from excess air moving in and out of the property.
Lighting That Sets the Mood
Goodbye, bright white lighting; hello, candles, warm, soft lighting, and lamps. You want to banish harsh lighting and instead opt for lighting that has a more ambient feel to it. Layer your lighting with lamps and light fixtures around the room, such as wall lights or candles. Add warm LED lights around your TV for a warmer backlit glow. If you’re sensitive to gloomy days, invest in daylight lamps for working areas or the bedroom and reserve the warm tones for relaxing spaces.
