Winter’s a time to hunker down, snuggle indoors and enjoy a home whose decor matches the season.
This year, there’s an abundance of chic looks, taking inspiration from the latest interiors trends, which can transform rooms - but divine decor tends to come at a price.
Luckily there’s no need to despair if, with the expense of Christmas looming, money’s tight, and you fear you can’t afford your dream of creating rooms perfect for indulgent hibernating.
Pick one of our three on-trend schemes and either splash out on a full-on luxe interpretation, or get the look for much, much less with some carefully-chosen budget buys.
Winter palace
A dark, moody, monochrome palette, sensual textures and razzle-dazzle metallic touches conjure an opulent, elegant sanctuary.
A subtle change of colour may be all that’s needed to capture the atmosphere of this look - opt for mellow tones like fashionable greys, or muted taupes for a feature wall. Charcoal grey or black upholstery, cashmere and wool throws and cushions, plus decadent chandeliers and the soft light of candles in hurricane lanterns are the rest of the essential elements for a hotel-chic cocoon for winter.
Simply snug
What could be more appealing than a log cabin retreat, with wood panelled walls and stripped floors, where you toast your toes in front of a traditional stove? The pure pared-back simplicity of this Scandinavian-inspired style isn’t difficult to evoke, and its colour palette of neutral tones is easy on the eye. Dress up with faux fur and velvet, or dress down with chunky woollen throws and rugs for a more homely feel.
Nesting instinct
Rich colour, including this season’s star shade; deep blue, teams brilliantly with jewel-bright reds and plums. That colour-combo will bring welcome warmth to any winter setting, and if you introduce key pieces of oak furniture, you’ll conjure a relaxed, unfussy, inviting parlour, suitable for a rural or urban setting.
Soft textured velvet or faux suede sofas will contrast well with polished wood, boasting a striking natural grain. Follow the theme with dark wood floors, gaily patterned rugs and, as a focal point, a pale stone fireplace.
Lanterns are an interesting alternative to candlesticks, and Sweetpea & Willow’s Criss Cross Lantern, £120, is decorative and appropriate for any season.
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