Cosy up
As winter flicks our internal ‘hibernation’ switch and we feel the urge to hunker down, it feels good to create spaces that support that hunkering.
How do you switch up your décor to make it more winter-appropriate? Through a combination of comfort (soft textiles), ambience (warm lighting), and styling (seasonal accessories). You don’t need to redecorate the entire room; a handful of curated accessories can transform the space for winter.
Here are three simple yet high-impact ways to make a living room feel warm and inviting for winter:
1. Layer soft textures
Mix different fabrics to create depth and comfort. Drape a chunky knit or fleece throw over the sofa, add velvet, boucle, or faux-fur cushions in complementary colours. Layering textures makes the room feel cosier, even if the colour palette stays neutral.
2. Use warm, ambient lighting
Swap harsh overhead lighting for multiple softer light sources. A table lamp with a warm-toned bulb, a floor lamp, candles (or realistic LED candles), and a string of fairy lights can create a gentle glow that’s perfect for winter evenings. Aim for warm white bulbs (around 2700K) rather than cool white.
3. Style with seasonal accents
Add a few accessories that evoke warmth. A woven basket filled with extra blankets, a tray with candles and mugs, dried branches or eucalyptus in a vase, and natural materials like wood, wool, or ceramic all contribute to a cosy feel.
