Winter-ready interiors: how to create a sanctuary from the chilliness at home

As the winter draws in, more and more of us will be starting to contemplate bunking down for the colder months, ready and raring to go with our hibernation period.
In order to enjoy life’s simple pleasures throughout the chilly weather, ensure your home is as welcoming and cosy as possible. Here are six ways to make your home interiors perfectly winter ready.
Cast a glow

Cosy mood lighting for winter
Winter is probably the most important time to ensure your living room is well lit, thanks to the fact that there are fewer daylight hours, and the nights feel longer than usual.
Layering up soft background lighting is a perfect way to build a cosy but well-lit atmosphere, with the use of wall lights and table lamps both favoured. Lighting candles alongside this adds an element of intimacy and relaxation and builds the overall sense of calm and cosiness.
Bath goals

Bathroom with feature freestanding bath
Is there anything truly more relaxing than immersing yourself in a steamy bubble bath after a long day?
Bathrooms have always been considered a personal, relaxing space, and the perfect place to start when it comes to creating a winter sanctuary in your own home.
Freestanding baths create a focal point within the room and exhume luxury, with claw and ball feet adding a real touch of class.
Create a reading station

A peaceful reading corner
Dedicating a space in your home specifically for peaceful activities, such as reading, serves as a gentle reminder to take time out for ourselves – and enjoy the little things in life – throughout winter.
Incorporate soft materials by choosing a cosy chair made from plush fabrics, and light the area well to ensure maximum enjoyment.
The cosy cottage vibe

The cosy cottage look
There’s something particularly magical about a country cottage in the depths of winter, thanks to the abundance of character and oh-so-cosy charm.
Old-fashioned period qualities, such as exposed beams and open fireplaces, bring a timeless feel to a property. But fear not if your home isn’t packed with fascinating features – the cosy cottage vibe can be emulated through interiors alone.
Take inspiration from Character Cottages; their use of clever fabrics and soft furnishings can be used to reproduce the look in your own home.
Soft furnishings are key

Layered soft furnishings
Cushions, cushions and more cushions! Multiple throws, blankets and cushions work particularly well, with soft touch fabrics being the texture of choice.
As touched on above, extra texture can add a secondary dimension to a room and lift the cosy theme to a new level.
Look for textiles made from interesting fabrics, such as embroidery, faux fur or sheepskin. Layering adds an element of luxury – something synonymously associated with the sanctuary feeling.
Light a fire

A cosy log burner
Warm and inviting spaces are enticingly relaxing, particularly after a long day out in the cold winter air.
Whether you prefer classic coal or a log burner, striking up a fire creates a safe haven ambience to be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home.