When my youngest son was very small he would always ask if we were hibernating at this time of year. I think he felt we were in a permanent state of twilight slowly moving from one sleep time to another. He loved the idea of hibernating and its exactily what you want to do for the colder darker months. Here are five easy ways to make your home a cosy and inviting place to take refuge in this winter.
Warm up with colour
If you are repainting, choose warm earthy shades such as camels, and soft sandy tones to create a calm and cosy environment. Introducing accessories in bright and cheerful colours is a great way to keep the winter blues at bay. Throws and cushions are the perfect winter accessory and will ensure neutral sofas or arm chairs are inviting and perfect for snuggling up in on a cold winter evening.
Get your lighting right
With the shorter days, lighting your home is important. Maximise the amount of natural light in a room by hanging a large mirror on a blank stretch of wall or above a mantel display to reflect light throughout your space. Ambient lighting like table and floor lamps are ideal to bring light into darker corners. Having a number of different light sources will allow you to control the atmosphere in the room, meaning you can create the perfect environment any time of the day.
Layer it up
Winter decorating, just like dressing for winter, is all about layering. And this is also a fantastic way to give any room in your home a whole new look. Give your bedroom a quick style update and prepare it for the season by layering in textured bedding, throws, and pillows. A luxurious cashmere plancet and soft velvet cushions will turn your bedroom into a cosy retreat on harsh winter nights.
Adding large rugs to hard flooring like timber and tiles will add warmth and texture underfoot. Make an existing rug even more cosy by layering a thinner, smaller rug on top of it.
Dress your windows
Last winter I invested in a all-to-wall curtain in our sitting room. From the moment they were hung it was instant cosiness. Not only do curtains add a layer of insulation by blocking out chilly winter drafts but the softness of the fabric creates a cosy atmosphere in the space. For extra insulation from the cold have your curtains interlined.
Create atmosphere
And finally there is nothing like an open fire to create a cosy atmosphere. A stove is a lovely feature and they come in a variety of styles to suit any taste. Give your existing fireplace a quick makeover by painting the surround and add a large art work above the mantel.
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What makes a cosy retreat for you? Share your ideas in the Comments section.
The post Hibernation time: 5 ways to get cosy this winter appeared first on Optimise Design.