Brrrrrrrrr. As we enter the latter months of 2017, it’s probably realistic to say that summer is officially done. So now it’s time to look forward to what the colder months have to offer for us; PSL, fireworks, cosy dark nights spent with Kindle in hand. But what do the cosy autumn months mean for your home? Well, it’s time to add a few cosy additions your house. Here’s my guide on how to do just that.
Let’s start right at the bottom; your floor. Just how can you make your home as toasty as possible without paying through the roof on your heating bill? The simple solution? Rugs! I never thought buying a rug would ever be on my adgenda but ever since I read The Little book of Hygge (read this post for embracing your inner Hygge) I’ve wanted one to place under my glass coffee table. So what are the current ‘must-haves’ in the world of rugs? Well, the winter months attract all things fluffy! We’re talking faux fur, shaggy and sheepskin rugs. Cast your mind to the days of vikings and medieval furs (it’s a little Game of Thrones) and then mix all of that the Scandinavian decor that everyone seems to be buzzing about right now. In regards to colour, bring in those earthy colours and nudes to get a real natural vibe in your room.
For more of a classic feel then why not turn your hand to traditional rugs? We’re talking geometric patterns and vintage Persian styles! Yes these rugs are a somewhat ‘acquired’ taste but place them in the right setting and they can really transform your home, especially if you’re more of a minimalist, they make for a great centrepiece. If you’re looking to create maximum comfort then a top tip is to layer multiple rugs, each with a different pattern; this will create a truly unique floor.
So, other than rugs what else can be done to get your room ready for winter? Here are a few handy tips on creating ultimate comfort:
• Dark tones – Dark nights mean dark tones, think dark plum and rich berry hues and even throw in a little navy. These sultry numbers make for the cosiest of winter nights and ooze sophistication.
• Modern rustic minimalism – One of the biggest trends not only right now but across the last 12 months too. The concept is simple; less is more. Most followers of this trend love to purchase furniture and pieces that have been produced in a natural, sustainable manner as well as bringing live plants in to your room as a centrepiece too. I love this aesthetic but I’m I way too messy to maintain it.
• Throws & blankets – Can you ever have too many blankets? They are the epitome of a cosy night in snuggled up in front of the TV. We’re talking the softest most plush material that you can possibly think of, chunky knitted blankets and soft cotton throws. What more could you honestly want?
• Candles – The same rule applies with candles, you can never ever have too many. Turn off the lights and sit in the flicker of a flame, the perfect setting to create some ambience for a cold winters night. Give me all the Dyptique and Jo Malone.
• Furniture placement – Now this may not seem like the most important thing to consider but the way that your furniture sits can really impact the mood and the effect of your room. I love to have a little switch around when autumn arrives. It has been recommended that in order to create a cosy setting you should push your sofa and chairs closer together as oppose to having them back on to a wall. If you have a focal point in your living room such as a fireplace or log burner then it is also recommended to surround your furniture around that, almost like a campfire setting; this can really give you the feeling of closure and bring added warmth into the room.
So there you go, just a few simple tricks on transforming your home this autumn and winter.
*This post was written in collaboration with Rug Mountain but my love for home decor is 100% my own.