Cosy up for Winter

Jacqueline Roberts discovers the world of décor is as hot as ever during the winter months.
So, Christmas is over, the presents are done, the food has been eaten and there are months to wait until the summer. If it all seems a bit gloomy, don’t despair as this is the best time of year to get your home in order. Whether you’re looking for a stylish cave in which to hibernate or plan to update your entire space and emerge like a butterfly in spring, we’ve got some fabulous ideas to spruce up your home this winter. For colour inspiration, look at hues like mulberry, burnt orange, ochre, forest green and midnight blue. Looking for something a bit more neutral?

Then seek out greys in tones of winter morning mists and dark smoke. If block colour doesn’t float your boat, then this winter animals are definitely in with badgers, owls, deer and hedgehogs featuring heavily on wallpapers and fabrics. Alternatively, the summer trend of lush palms and foliage has continued with some stunning feature walls.The winter is all about snuggling down and, like it or loathe it, real fur is back in a big way – über-luxurious Tibetan lamb, shaved rabbit and goat skin all featured heavily in the September shows as well as plenty of excellent faux fur in cushions, throws, poufs, beanbags and rugs. Knitted accessories scream winter, and this season bolder styles such as huge chunky cable-knits have been replacing demure weaves.

Nothing provides that air of indulgence quite like velvets – think of sumptuous, pooling curtains and Arabian night-style floor cushions. Chilly winter nights need warmth and there is nothing quite like curling up in front of a real fire or alternatively a log burner. It doesn’t take much to make a feature of a fireplace – an attractive fireguard and a gorgeous wicker basket for your logs and already your source of warmth becomes a source of aesthetic beauty as well. Rugs are definitely the way to go in winter, and if you have gone for a neutral colour palette then you can really let go when choosing a rug.

This season sees some gorgeous, textured rugs as well as a welcome return of ethnic styles such as superb pure wool carpets from Morocco, India and Pakistan. Of course, here on the Costa del Sol, we are lucky enough to still enjoy our outdoor spaces but, when the warming sun drops behind the horizon, the temperatures can plummet. That doesn’t mean you have to rush indoors though. Your terrace can become an extension of your home, even in winter, with some clever thinking. Firstly, a heat source – there are some excellent gas burners out there, some of which are stylish to boot. Or opt for a real fire with a firepit or bowl and place seating around it. Some lovely lanterns, chairs or poufs lined with soft sheepskins, throws to snuggle under… and suddenly your outside space is a winter wonderland. Sitting under a starry sky, glass of mulled wine in hand, surrounded by some good company and you’ll forget its even winter!