HOW TO CREATE
Fall back in love with your four walls using these expert-approved tips guaranteed to ramp up the cosy factor in your home
Valentine’s Day is on the agenda, and whether or not you’re celebrating with a loved one (or ones), we think it’s the perfect time to cosy up and hunker down in your heavenly haven. There are plenty of ways to spread the TLC and create spaces that are made to be shared, from bringing your favourite people together in the kitchen to conjuring up warm and inviting spots for just the two of you. After all, home is where the heart is…
LOAF IN THE
1 Layer up Let’s face it: piles of cosy fabrics are the best way to help you beat the chill. ‘We often layer rugs over rugs and cushions on top of throws,’ says Venetia Rudebeck of Studio Vero. And for very good reason, as she continues: ‘Combining colour, pattern and texture is key to creating warm, comfy spaces. More is definitely more.’
2 Shed some light One thing all perfect snug spaces have in common? The right lights. But don’t just take our word for it. ‘Lighting is absolutely paramount to creating the right atmosphere,’ Venetia explains. ‘Subtle lighting will transform an otherwise dark and uninviting area into an intimate space.’
3 Room for two Too many chairs in your living room? Never! Especially when you’re trying to create a welcoming home that you and your loved ones will never want to leave. If space allows, upgrade a statement armchair for a cuddler or loveseat to get really comfy.
COSY COMFORTS
* The best seat in your home has arrived and it comes with a deep seat and soft-to-the-touch fabric. If you ask us, it’s made for two. Blue Velvet Loveseat (right), £480, Furniture 123.
* Add some texture with a super-soft blanket that’s made for snuggling.
* Light up dark days and cold corners with wall lamps. Try M&S, Dunelm and John Lewis & Partners.
COMFY CHEER IN THE
1 Hot drink haven There’s something lovely about chatting with friends over steaming cups of tea or coffee in your favourite cafe. So recreate a slice of this at home with a hot drink station. Gather together everything you need, from a compact coffee machine and a milk frother to a teapot and cups and saucers – and make a hot drink a moment to share.
2 Sit tight ‘Bench seating offers a great way to create an intimate dining space,’ says Richard Davonport, managing director at bespoke handmade kitchens business Davonport. ‘However,’ he suggests, if you have the space, ‘to really maximise the potential, consider curved bench seating – it really is the u
