fbpx Skip to content

The ultimate winter hibernation guide

The ultimate winter hibernation guide

The nights are drawing in and there’s a definite chill in the air. Hibernate in comfort this winter by making your home into a cosy haven. Here’s how.

1. Cuddle up under a blanket – or five

Layer your furniture with throws and blankets to create a gorgeously warm nest. Think luxurious cashmere, soft velvet or butter soft linen.

And there’s no reason to stop at one! Spread a throw over your couch and keep a pretty cotton blanket on top to go over your lap and you’ll be in snuggly heaven. Add some cushions in case the urge to nap strikes.

Don’t forget your bed, either. Flannel sheets, thick fleece throws, and warm sheepskin rugs will make the space warm and inviting. The only problem might be getting up the next morning!

2. Create ambient lighting

Get rid of the bright overheads and create warm pools of light with clever lighting designs. Harsh light can wash out your space and make it feel cold and forbidden. By using a combination of lamps and other small lights, you can use the light to your advantage instead.

Coloured glass lamps or fabric lampshades can soften and warm your space and are easily changed out to match your current colour scheme.

You can ramp up the romance with candles, or electric candles that look like the real thing, or invest in a salt lamp and enjoy its amber glow.

3. Scent the air

Tickle your sense of smell with a scented candle or oil burner. Warm scents like sandalwood or cinnamon can help infuse your home with sensory warmth. Orange, rosewood and cardamon are also excellent choices for some sweet and spicy charm.

If you choose an oil diffuser, they also do double duty as a humidifier. That makes them ideal for combating the dry air that winter heaters can cause. And if you’re down with the winter sniffles, a bit of eucalyptus oil does wonder!

4. Lay soft rugs underfoot

Winter floors are chilly, especially if you have timber floorboards or tiles underfoot. A plush rug offers insulation for the home and sensory delight for your feet. Choose one that you can wriggle your toes in, with a soft thick texture and harmonious colour scheme. Wool is an excellent insulator, and durable enough for high traffic areas, while

5. Luxe up the bathroom

Is there anything better than sinking into a hot bath on a cold night? Turn your bathroom into an indulgent retreat with thick fluffy towels and a soft bathmat. A scented candle is an easy way to pump up the enjoyment — pair it with a bath bomb for a scent explosion! Tray tables designed for your bath mean you can take a glass of wine and a book in there with you and soak for as long as you like.

Worried about stepping out of the bath and into a cold room? Bathroom heaters are widely available and can be installed easily on your wall.

6. Create a colour scheme that glows

Winter isn’t the time for cool whites and neutrals, so take the opportunity to play with some colour. You don’t need to paint: you can amp up the warmth with throws, cushions and artwork.

Try pairing deep forest greens, glowing violets and velvety browns against your existing neutrals to create a sense of warmth and drama. Bright pops of yellow or pink can brighten up a room when it’s grey outside and work well against cool colour palettes.

7. Bounce the light around

Mirrors and metallics reflect the light from outside and bounce it around your home to light it up. Add a large wall mirror to the lounge, try a metallic lampshade or arrange some shiny ornaments around the room. You’ll get some much needed sparkle in your life, and as a bonus, the room will appear larger.

Creating a winter haven doesn’t need to take a lot of time, effort or even money. With some thoughtful touches you can create a delightfully cosy space that will be welcoming to you and your guests.

Related articles from the view

May 20, 2020

Five lockdown boredom busters

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, you wouldn’t be alone if you felt a little bored. With Australians urged to stay home except for essential trips, our own four walls have become a very familiar sight. 1. Take in some art and culture You might not be able to visit the Louvre in person any time…
Read more
  • General
  • Residential
  • Rural
Jun 20, 2019

Five ways to create the perfect winter interior

Winter is the time to curl up and hibernate inside, safely tucked away from bitter winds and icy rain. With the great outdoors far less tempting than usual, this is the right time of year to turn your attention to your interior instead Here are five ways to create a winter interior so sumptuous you…
Read more
  • General
  • Interior Design
  • Residential
May 13, 2020

Keeping fit when you’re stuck at home

Stuck at home and eating too much of your pandemic comfort baking? If you’ve piled on a few pounds during the current situation, you’re not alone. Current government recommendations state that we should all aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, but with gyms still on the forbidden list, if you want…
Read more
  • General
  • Residential
  • Rural
Jul 31, 2019

On trend heating options for your home

Today’s heating options go beyond keeping you warm. They provide a focal point for the home, encouraging the family to gather in a communal area. It’s important, therefore, that they suit the tone and layout of your particular space, as well as fitting in with your lifestyle. Here are a few of the latest options…
Read more
  • General
  • Interior Design
  • Residential
  • Rural
Jul 24, 2018

Three ways to make a small space appear bigger

Perhaps the arrival of guests has prompted you to change your floor plan around. Or maybe you’re preparing to put your home on the market, and you want to do justice to your most valuable asset. Either way, you’re looking at your space with fresh eyes. And it dawns on you: the room is small. The…
Read more
  • General
  • Residential