As the air turns crisp and leaves paint the landscape with hues of gold and red, it’s time to welcome the cosy embrace of autumn and winter into your home.
With just a few simple decor tweaks, you can transform your space into a warm and inviting sanctuary that celebrates the season’s charm. Whether you’re sipping pumpkin spice lattes or cuddling up with a good book, here’s your guide to making your home feel snug and cosy for the colder months that lie ahead, according to property24.com.
Ways to create a cosy Autumn feel with simple home decor
Adding layers
Warm, fuzzy throws or woolly blankets are the epitome of cosiness, and extra pillows guarantee maximum comfort while curled up in front of a movie on a chilly winter’s day. To add style to your comfort when purchasing new ones, choose vivid colours like burned orange and forest green. You can get a lovely basket to store them folded when not in use if you don’t want them to be the focal point of your couch.
The quickest way to also add warmth to any space is by incorporating soft and tactile textiles. Swap out lightweight summer throws and pillows for chunky knits and plush fabrics in rich autumnal tones like rust, mustard, and deep burgundy.
Embrace natural elements
Bring the beauty of the outdoors inside by incorporating natural elements into your decor. Fill a vase with branches of dried eucalyptus or cinnamon-scented pine cones for a touch of rustic charm. Wooden accents, such as candle holders or picture frames, add warmth and texture to your space, while also evoking a sense of cosiness.
Opt for soft lighting
Soft, ambient lighting is essential for creating a cosy atmosphere in your home. Swap out harsh overhead lights for warm, diffused lighting using table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights. Opt for bulbs with a warm colour temperature to mimic the soft glow of candlelight. Scatter candles throughout your space and light them in the evenings to add a flickering warmth that instantly makes any room feel cosier. And if you have non-flashing fairy lights with plain bulbs, string those up to add to the ambience – they’re definitely not just for Christmas.
Layer rugs for softness
Cold floors can detract from the cosy ambiance of your home, so layering rugs is a simple yet effective way to add warmth and softness underfoot. Start with a large area rug to anchor the space, then layer smaller rugs in complementary textures and patterns for added visual interest. Not only will this create a plush and inviting feel, but it will also help define separate areas within open-plan living spaces. To add even more warmth and charm, go for textured materials with thicker weaves and vivid colours.
Create a cosy nook
Carve out a cosy nook in your home where you can retreat and unwind with a good book or a hot cup of tea. Arrange a comfortable armchair or chaise lounge near a window or by the fireplace, and accessorise with a soft throw blanket and a pile of your favourite books. Add a small side table or tray to hold your drink and snacks, and surround yourself with personal touches like family photos or artwork to make the space feel truly yours.
Infuse seasonal scents
Scent plays a powerful role in creating ambiance, so fill your home with the inviting aromas of autumn. Use scented candles, reed diffusers, or essential oil diffusers to infuse your space with seasonal scents like pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and apple cider. Not only will these fragrances make your home smell divine, but they’ll also enhance the cosy atmosphere and evoke feelings of warmth and comfort.
Cosy up your bed
Make your bedroom a haven of comfort by layering soft bedding in luxurious textures and warm tones. Swap out lightweight summer linens for flannel or fleece sheets, and add a thick duvet or quilt for extra warmth on chilly nights. Pile on plenty of pillows and cushions in coordinating colours and patterns to create an inviting bed that beckons you to snuggle up and stay awhile.
Go gas
Gas heaters are a terrific investment because they can be moved from room to room and can heat up smaller spaces rather quickly. Additionally, they provide light and heat because load shedding is a constant in our lives.
If you prefer being outside in all weather conditions, think about building a fire pit on your patio or purchasing a freestanding gas heater. You can then enjoy the customary Sunday afternoon braai or an evening spent playing board games and sipping hot chocolate around the patio table.
ALSO SEE: 13 Tips to prepare your garden for autumn
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