Winter time is upon us, albeit in one stage of lock-down or another. I have always been in awe of how the seasons change. The beautiful way in which they transform and merge into each other. The blatant contrasts between them and the awe inspiring effects it has on the world around us. It has always been very fascinating to watch the natural and animal world gloriously adapt to the ever changing surroundings.
We all have a romantic view of winter time. It falls around the two most important times of a year, the end and the beginning. We have celebrations and festivals and holidays and it is a time to unwind and reflect on the year that has just been. People are tired, we want to a break but we are also looking forward to the year that is coming. I find that people are more optimistic and reflective at this time of year. We will be moaning about the weather and the cold,in true British fashion, but at the end of the day we secretly love the atmosphere of winter. Or at least I think we do but I know I definitely do.
As it is the end of the year, many people do not tend to make major adjustments to our homes. We have other expenses and priorities to cover this season. However, there a few little things that we can do around the house to style it up for winter. A few subtle changes here and there can make a world of a difference.
Layer It Up
There really is not a better feeling than coming home on a cold winter evening and sitting down on a sofa and just sinking into a beautifully soft abyss of blankets. A lot of people might be tempted to go for one thick blanket, but I prefer to have multiple blankets. And multiple layers just means that we get to incorporate more designs and patterns into our interior, and what better way to accessorise the living room or bedroom than with throws and blankets?
Explore different textures and fabrics, create a feel to excite the senses. Play around with colour and add contrasting shades and tones. It would be ideal to layer up neutral colours, so as to create a more subdued atmosphere. Pile on the cushions. Add a rug or two, especially in the kitchen and dining areas. Rugs are the perfect way to soften up hard flooring, it will change the look of the place and the flooring will not feel too cold.
Warm It Up
We all have the fantasy of spending cold winter nights curled up in front of a hot roaring fire. Getting all warm and toasted up. Candles are helpful for times like this. I find candles to be a beautiful accent to an interior, if they are done right. Go for an asymmetrical arrangement, with different shapes and sizes. Go for candles with patterns, boldly shaped candles are trending right now, which are perfect for creating a beautiful look. Be careful with the scents, we do not want to overpower the room with multiple smells. Look around and create an arrangement of scents that work together.
Curtains also help retain heat and help create a warm and cosy atmosphere. Thick fabrics of dark or neutral colours will work well this season. Try incorporating some of this seasons hot colours, like deep reds and mustard yellows to add an element of warmth.
Light It Down
Dark and light, a beautiful contrast and what better time to exploit this than during winter. Light, outside during winter is minimal, daytime is shorter and generally we spend more hours in the dark than light. However, instead having a light and bright atmosphere inside throughout the, I prefer to mimic the natural lighting conditions as they pass by outside. This sounds kinda crazy but it does work.
Creating little spots of lighting around the room is far more effective than one lighting source. I believe this works because it balances out with the natural environment. Lamps are always popular during winter time, as they help create a more intimate environment, reflecting the nesting qualities of nature. We tend to huddle together in the cold and the dark and little spots of lighting is perfect for that.
The short and cold days are made better by spending the night in front of a hot fire bundled up in thick fluffy blankets, cradling a steaming mug of hot chocolate. The wet and miserable is replaced by plates of hot desserts and endless helpings of comfort food. The dull and grey atmosphere is replaced by mood lighting and candles. There is just something about firelight and the beautiful colours of yellow, orange and red that lulls us into a sense of relaxation, in a grey and dark world. But a few changes in style can really help amp up that glorious winter feeling, perfect for holiday season.
From top left to bottom right:
Keeva Floor Lamp, Navy & Brushed Brass - Made.com - £99
Luxury Soy Fragranced Christmas Candles - Chilliwinter Isle Of Wight Ltd - £18
Stitched Flax Curtains - Stitched.co.uk
Hudson Homes Jar Candles Rang - Hudson Home - £12.50
Giacomo Patchwork Velvet Cushion, Peacock Green & Plaster Pink - Made.com
Boll, Brass & Smoked Glass - Made.com - £35
Kendal Herringbone Soft Marina Blankets - The Fine Cotton Company - £150
Eco Braided Rugs - Braided Rug Company - £39
Evening Tale Pure New Wool Blanket, Traditional Herringbone - Heating & Plumbing London - £89
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