Perhaps more than ever, our homes have become our world. No longer limited to merely the place we sleep and do our laundry, they’ve become makeshift workplaces and school classrooms, gyms and art studios. The boundaries between where we work, socialise, eat and sleep are blurred, and so, as the evenings begin to draw in, the need to create warm, cosy spaces to nest in and enjoy time together as a family becomes essential.
But the good news is you don’t need to redesign your entire house to cosy your space for the colder months ahead. There are plenty of simple, effective tricks you can do to make your home feel warm and welcoming, create a comforting glow and a place where you can truly relax as we move towards the coming season, and special times with our loved ones.
Here are six easy updates to up your comfort factor in style
1 Layer comforting cushions, throws, blankets and rugs
This autumn is all about layering so invest in throws and blankets in warm tones like this Knitted Pom Pom Throw (£40), so you can hibernate under feel-good textures. Trade bold and bright for soft and neutral and add cushions of different shapes and sizes to make any space feel instantly inviting. Mix print, pattern, texture and tone with contemporary-styled cushions like this Faux Fur Pom Pom Knitted Cushion (£16) and the Gabriella Faux Fur Cushion (£14). We particularly like exquisite velvet cushions to bring together any autumnal interior décor scheme. This L-shaped Ezra Corner Chaise (£999) is the perfect fit for any size living room. Take some time to put your feet up, cosy up by the fire and bring the highest level of luxury underfoot with a Nordic Faux Fur Rug (£120).
2 Create a cosy reading corner
Nothing quite says cosy like an open fireplace, faux fur rug, a comfy chair and a mug of frothy hot chocolate. Get creative with your space and make your home work harder by creating special places where you can relax with loved ones or when enjoying some vital you time. Whether you’re tucking into a new novel or reading stories with the kids, set up an ultra cosy space to escape in with a so-comfy faux fur bean bag chair and combining a mix of textures to give a super cosy feel. Alternatively, placing a lamp above a comfy armchair, like this modern Ari Accent Chair With Light Legs (£250), will indicate where best to curl up – we like this Pittsburgh Tripod Floor Lamp (£185) – inspired by the movies – to create a statement.
3 Set the mood with comforting scents and rustic accessories
From woody, earthy aromas to spicy gingerbread fragrances – bring the hibernating scents of the new season to really give your home those chill-out vibes. These Large Chrome Lanterns (£40) are perfect for adding a splash of sophistication to your living room – combining slick modern flair with a traditional style. Pair the lantern with this smaller Antler Hurricane (£26) in a cluster for maximum impact. Stag ornaments are a classic addition to any stately (or, indeed, urban) home, so give yours a rustic feel with this Antler Pillar Candle Holder (£22) or make this silver Antler Bowl (£35) the centrepiece of your dining room table (also perfect for the big meal at Christmas).
4 Bring in a darker palette
Pick rich tones for key pieces, such as a dark navy, and mix with lashings of metallic touches such as gleaming gold, burnished copper, brushed brass and bronze. Go for a plush statement sofa to anchor your scheme around, like this velvet blue Elsie Sofa (£599). As staying in continues to be the new going out, recreate the feeling of a plush members-only club in the comfort of your own home with a glam cocktail trolley (£125), extravagant dark paint (£16), and characterful Hamilton Armchairs (£250).
5 Add texture to your bedroom
Beautiful bedding is an easy way to make instant impact, so switch out your simple summer bed linen for something more seasonal. This Cosy Fleece Duvet Cover And Pillowcase Set (£28-£58) is perfect for wrap-around cosy comfort, with gorgeous knit-pattern detailing for a log cabin feel. Add quilted throws and bedspreads in washed linens, and thick woollen blankets with decorative fringing, tassels and trims for homely look. Opt for this Chunky Cable Knit Throw (£55- £85) or Pom Throw (£40) to keep you toasty even as the temperatures drop.
6 Introduce ‘Japandi’ style
Combine Scandinavain hygge with Japanese minimalism to strike the perfect balance between cosy, home comforts and fresh, modern style. Bring together the best of both worlds and update your dining room with this Jefferson 4 Seater Bench Set (£650). Contrast is a key element of this trend, so try mixing polished Japanese designs with clean lines amongst light wood tones of Scandinavian style, bountiful throw pillows and cosy blankets.
Easy updates for the season ahead
Whether you want to tap into new trends, up the cosy factor or make your home more special for the season ahead, Next Home has everything you need to make effortless updates that will transform every room.From easy accessories to so-comfy sofas, and stylish lighting, tableware and furnishings that will make instant impact, it’s never been simpler to make your home work harder, so you can focus on enjoying every moment with your loved ones in the place that matters most.
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