Top image: Tactile, cosy, comfy – essential for relaxed living. Its all about chunky textures to thrill your fingertips, plenty of cushions to cuddle and a sofa big enough for the whole family. The Celine Right arm facing pillow back corner sofa in mink €1449, DFS.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… for interiors that is. And for many other reasons of course but the opportunity to get cosy in front of the fire with your favourite movie on TV and your feet up on the sofa, swaddled in throws and cushions. With interiors as good as what you’re likely to find in DFS, it’s no wonder we actually look forward to the idea of a day where the heavens open and we have no choice but to stay put at home. Staying in, according to recent research from DFS, is absolutely the new going out and here we’re looking at ways to increase the cosy factor in your GAFF, so the idea of staying in becomes more and more attractive as the nights start to really draw in on us.
1. Texture times a thousand.
Winter nights demand lots of cosy textures and for maximum cosiness, we like to mix and match lots of complementary textures as this gives depth. So if you have a leather sofa, such as the beautiful Hackney, don’t be afraid to add in velvet cushions or chunky knit throws. The mixture of materials will turn your home into a haven. Likewise, if you are the proud owner of a velvet sofa or one of our favourites – the Hoxton – bring in fabrics such as sheepskin, faux fur, and wool.
2. Don’t underestimate the ottoman’s cosy powers.
An ottoman is such an unsung hero of the living room. For starters, they’re beautiful to look at. They can also double as storage if you choose one that has a lid. What’s more, they can work as a coffee table – just use a tray on top for your bits and bobs – and they are often far cosier and more warming than wood or metals. Then of course you can put your feet up on them, and move them around the room depending on where you plan on getting cosy. Another essential cosy accessory that you can go big with or keep things modest, and there are plenty of options at DFS.
3. Decide on your top candle scent.
If like us, you like to have countless candles lit – the ultimate accessory for cosiness – make sure to decide on just one scent. Invest in a three or four wick candle that will last for hours on end and then let that be it. Then, get tea lights and pillar candles that are fragrance free so that you’re not overloading or confusing your senses with competing candles. For us, it doesn’t get better than cinnamon and frankincense at this time of year, easing your olfactory senses right into winter.
GAFF CHRISTMAS POP-UP EXPERIENCE: TICKETS HERE
4. Turn off the overhead lights.
And while you’re at it, ensure that the mood lighting you do choose is soft and very warm (in terms of the bulbs). If it’s cosiness you’re after, we suggest moving away from the raw, exposed bulb look and instead choosing lighting with fabric lampshades. Again, this is another opportunity add in more cosy textures such as a wool or velvet shade.
5. Layer your accessories, not just your clothes.
Have you considered layered rugs? If you have a larger space with tiles or wooden floors, two rugs overlapping can really bring a sense of warmth to the space, especially if you are into the Boho aesthetic of ‘more is more’. Similarly, layer throws on your sofa. Invest in a wicker basket that can live in a corner. A selection of throws can live inside that and when it’s time to wrap up, you can choose your favourites. Like with the cushions, keep the textures diverse.
6. Cosy colours.
The truth is there’s no colour palette that can’t be made to feel cosy. Though it’s said that cooler colours such as blue will always feel cold, this can be balanced with your lighting and your soft furnishings. If however you want your walls to feel warm, choose advancing colours that create a more cosy atmosphere. Spiced Honey (Dulux’ colour of the year) is a good starting point.
7. Slippers for all.
Cosiness at home starts with your body, so avoiding cold feet on a winter’s night is a must. When you’re living room is set just right with all of the above tips and tricks, be sure to have a pair of luxurious slippers – or fluffy socks – to slip into. If your budget will allow it, go for cashmere. Keep them stored in the living room or by the front door as you come home, so that the moment you cross the threshold, you feel enveloped in cosiness.
For the ultimate cosy Christmas experience, don’t forget to pop into the GAFF Christmas pop-up with DFS, supported by Tesco finest* this November 24-25th. Tickets here.
