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Feeling cosy and comfortable is about more than just switching on the heater. Easy interior design tweaks can instantly change the feel of a room, turning it into a sanctuary of warmth.
“Colour and emotions are closely linked, with colour playing a substantial role in influencing how we feel in a space,” explains Jane Wright, Bunnings’ trend and design manager. This feeling can be created with warm-hued decor or by layering tactile textures that make you hanker to hibernate.
Creating a bedroom that invites you to snuggle up in the sleepy warmth of a well-made bed is all about textiles. Dulux colour and communications manager Andrea Lucena-Orr explains, “The more texture you include will help create that comfortable and relaxed setting. Layering textiles in rich and natural colours with big comfy cushions and textured throws really makes a statement.”
Add soft throws and cushions, of course, but also heavy drapes to keep out the chill, further texture with woven baskets or rattan accessories, and plush rugs as a treat for your toes on frosty mornings.
Putting the emphasis on accessories means you can change up the space to suit the season. Keep the walls neutral with a shade like Dulux Natural White – perfect for matching both warm and cool-toned accessories.
For a snug living room, a deeper colour on the walls will create a sense of intimacy. “Warm and earth-based colours can create a sense of security and comfort, which is why these colours are perfect for cooler seasons,” says Andrea.
Bring furnishings in close to create a conversation cluster, leaning towards sofas, armchairs and ottomans in soft fabrics like velvet and bouclé. “A welcoming winter room demands soft, warm and interesting layers to add cosiness – think quilted blankets, chunky cable knits and cushions in soft, tightly woven materials to cultivate a sense of cosiness,” adds Jane.
Soften hard surfaces underfoot as well – layering rugs is a great way to add texture and create a cocooning corner within a larger room.
Counteract the hard surfaces of dining room furniture by being creative with accessories. Rugs are a wonderful tool for a comfortable space. Pop throws or cushions over dining chairs – this works to create a room you’ll want to spend time in when it’s cold outside.
Even traditionally cooler wall colours can be made to feel cosy. The key is to choose a shade with depth and smokiness, like Porter’s Paints Dark Newport Blue. Melanie Stevenson of Porter’s Paints explains, “It’s serene and grounding, and will work as a great backdrop to other colours in soft furnishings such as cushions, upholstery, curtains and rugs.”
Using a warm or neutral white for trims will add further warmth, and don’t underestimate the power of lighting. “In a cooler-toned room it’s essential to have the lighting right – warm white bulbs will help to achieve this,” says Jane. When in doubt, nothing says warmth and cosiness like candlelight.
Explore our full range of shag pile, wool, modern and traditional style rugs.
Photo Credit: James Moffatt
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
