The best thing about autumn has got to be the excuse to get cosy, spend more time indoors and slow down. I’m definitely less social during the winter months. Nothing calls to me quite as strongly as the sofa, a warm blanket and an evening spent at home. I’ve always been a bit of a homebody, so it’s no surprise that I’m a big fan of hygge. And in case you’re wondering, yes hygge is still very much a thing. It’s no longer just a trendy buzzword, though. It has become a way of life for many, and it’s something that I wholeheartedly approve of (and frequently take part in).
The Art of Layering
This is the time to bring out those extra throws and comfy cushions for the sofa. I know that as soon as October arrives, I’ll be reaching for my wool throws and slippers, and there’s nothing more comforting than curling up in front of the TV or fire with a cuppa in hand. We layer our clothes as the seasons change, so why shouldn’t we do the same with our homes? Add an extra fluffy rug beside the bed, layer up the sofa and bring out all those soft, tactile textures that felt a little too heavy for summer. It’s not only economical to have seasonal pieces and décor to rotate throughout the year, but it’s great fun too. You’ll rediscover things you’d completely forgotten you had (and sometimes, that’s half the joy of changing your home for a new season).
A Little More Heat
If you live in an older house as I do, you’ll know how tempting it is to turn up the heat as soon as the temperature drops. But with energy costs still a consideration, using electric heaters to warm the spaces you use most can be a practical alternative to heating the entire house. One of the best things about electric heaters is their flexibility. You can use them in the living room while watching TV or in your home office while you work, giving you a little extra warmth exactly where you need it. Just remember to keep heaters well away from curtains, furniture and other flammable matrials, and always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Gather Around the Fire
There’s something timeless about lighting the fire as the evenings draw in. Installing our log burner was one of the best things we’ve done. Not only is it tidier than a traditional fireplace, but it’s far more powerful than you might expect. The heat travels upstairs and helps warm the house, which I absolutely love. There’s also something wonderfully comforting about having the fire going on a cold winter evening and it instantly makes the whole house feel cosier. If you can install one, it’s definitely worth considering. Draught-proofing your home and sealing small gaps can also help you make the most of the warmth you create.
The Ritual of Scent
Oil burners, candles and winter fragrances can make your home feel irresistible at this time of year. Choose warm, spicy scents that make you want to slow down, switch off and settle in for the evening. I love an autumnal scent with warm spices and vanilla. I’ve recently discovered wax burners too and I’m seriously hooked. They’re a great alternative to candles and surprisingly powerful (and I do find them better value too).
Dress the Windows
Heavier curtains and soft layers can add warmth while making a room feel beautifully cocooned. Full-length curtains, in particular, instantly make a space feel cosier, while also helping to keep the cold out. Curtains do far more than simply block out light and look good. The right pair can help insulate your home, which is why investing in good-quality or thermal curtains is well worth it, especially if you live in an older house where draughts are part of the charm.
Cordless Lamps
I love layered lighting, and having multiple sources dotted around a room is so much more inviting than relying on just one or two main lights. I’m a big fan of portable lamps. They’re such an easy way to brighten up a dark corner, illuminate a windowsill or create a little pool of warm light wherever you need it. Add a few candles into the mix and you’ve got the perfect autumnal glow — soft, warm and wonderfully homely.
Cosy Corners
Whilst we’re on the subject of cosy tips, I think there’s something lovely about having a designated corner or snug where you can retreat, keep warm and properly unwind. It could be a favourite chair, a corner of the sofa or simply anywhere you feel most comfortable. For me, it’s probably the quietest spot in the house, which just happens to be our grown-up living room. I love retreating here with a good book or settling in to watch Netflix, usually with my cat demanding an endless supply of attention and pets. Ultimate bliss!
Slow Winter Living
There’s no better way to embrace winter than by taking some time away from our phones and other distractions. It’s the perfect time to slow down a little, whether that means baking something nice, getting stuck into a good book or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. Even setting aside 15 minutes a day for something you enjoy can make a difference. I think we’re often so caught up in our daily routines that we forget to appreciate the little things. Sometimes, all it takes is a slower pace, a few simple routines and a little more time to enjoy being at home. And really, what could be nicer than that?
