So winter is now well and truly upon us and to compensate we are all doing our best to avoid the cold air.
We have reacquainted ourselves with our long lost coats and have temporarily adjusted the temperature on our heaters. But alas with the depression in temperature comes the significant price hike of running the heater during the winter. Keep your home warm this winter.
Plan to winter proof your home
During the design and planning stages of building your new home, there are a number of ways to ensure it retains the heat during the dreaded winter months. The position of the home, how well it’s insulated and installing double glazed windows can make a considerable difference to its energy efficiency. Its orientation is also critical in order to maximise northerly sunlight, whilst double glazed windows can help reduce the loss of heating by up to 40 per cent. By making simple design considerations, you can significantly improve your home’s ability to retain heat.
Fill your home with elements to create a sanctuary
The feel and layout of your home has a lot to do with how you fill the space. Some clever furniture and colour decisions, paying attention to materials and texture, can make a dramatic difference in how your home retains warmth.
Add throws and cushions
Not only do they adhere to the comfort factor, cushions and throws can lift a room with a splash of colour and really add that luxe feel. Enjoy a tranquil night in, cuddled up on the couch in front of a good movie.
STYLE TIP: Arrange your cushions with a keen eye and colour coordinate harmoniously. You can revitalise a room by matching some detailed, textured or patterned cushions with a neutral throw. Less is more when it comes to cushions and throws. There is nothing worse than going overboard. Instead creating a sumptuous place to relax, you won’t be able to find a place to sit amongst a sea of cushions. Less is definitely more!
Add soft lighting
Candles and soft ambient lighting can provide your home with the right amount of atmosphere. Candles not only give off heat, but they create a romantic, relaxing space that will make you feel as though you’re in a calming oasis.
Add curtains or blinds
To stop the cold air from escaping through the windows, covering them with curtains or cellular blinds will create an insulating effect. The thicker the curtains, the greater their capacity to retain warmth.
Interior details
Try a harmonious colour palette
You can rejig a room to create a warm and cosy feel by using muted tones, shades of grey, green and taupe. Soft hues of warm colours, such as yellow and orange can promote feelings of optimism, happiness and creativity.
Try a sleek modern finish with compromising on comfort
Some modern interior design may look edgy, but fails the comfort test. You need to be able to imagine yourself curled up on the couch with a good book, having dinner with the family in the meals and dining area, and hosting friends in the outdoor alfresco. The secret to good design is striking a balance between comfort, cosiness and style.
Try adding vintage details
Think rustic, think provincial, think shabby chic. They might take a bit of scavenging but finding some unique pieces to add to your home is a great way to bring a feeling of homelessness and warmth to your home. Vintage linens, vases and lighting mixed with modern fittings can work well together.
Keep yourself warm
Rug up!
Failing a complete knockdown rebuild, there are some other ways to ensure you avoid the biting cold. Use some common sense; don’t swan around in some shorts and a t-shirt. Before you adjust the heater’s dial, break out the thermals, jumper, cardigan, jeans and boots. It’s amazing what an extra couple of layers can do for you.
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