The fire is crackling, and the cocoa is brewed. Transform your home into a cosy, unique hideaway this winter by layering old and new with toasty hues and sumptuous textures. Ready, set, glow.
If the goal of any great interior is to evoke a visceral, emotional response, then what better way than with a carefully considered, layered approach. The antidote to minimalism, layered living is the art of adding depth, dimension and visual interest to a space through the careful curation of furniture, art, accessories and colour in a way that reflects your personal style and sparks joy. And with the current yearning for unique and individualised spaces, there’s no better way to create a one-of-a-kind interior than through layered living.
Winter layered living
With temperatures plummeting and more time spent indoors, winter is an ideal time to get creative with layers for a look that is both literally and visually warm. It’s the perfect season to bring out the heavier textures like velvet and boucle as seen in the Weekender Sofas and pair them with golden tones of cinnamon, caramel and cocoa.
Pair a soft rug underfoot with a textured, coloured throw (love the Snow Throws!) and statement side table to create that sought after tactile feel for hibernation days. Add toasted marshmallows and mulled wine to complete the picture.
How to style an awkward corner
Arguably one of the most difficult areas to style, a room’s corners can puzzle even the most seasoned stylist. But rather than viewing them as problematic, we like to think of them as opportunities to flex our creative muscles.
The most obvious solution can be found by adding a statement occasional chair like the Pod Armchair which is perfect for creating a cosy reading corner. Equally, a statement floor lamp, pendant light, wall sconce or gallery wall exhibiting your favourite artwork are all great options too. But if you’re short on space, a corner unit works to maximise storage – just add floating shelves and then style them with plants, books and objects and your corner work is done.
How to layer with accessories
If you’re going for visual depth and dynamism at home, layering textures and materials is vital and there’s no better way to do this than with accessories. Just as accessories can transform an outfit, they can really elevate a room.
From sculptural pieces to vessels, lamps, decorative objects, and soft furnishings like cushions or throws, the magic is in the mix. Be sure to vary the heights, size and shapes of these items for a captivating visual party.
How to decorate on a budget
Contrary to what many people believe, creating a show-stopping interior has more to do with creativity than limitless funds. In fact, there is real beauty to be found in creating a stylish and inviting space on a modest budget.
Upcycling or refurbishing old furniture and accessories is a great way to overhaul your interiors without taking much of a financial hit – fresh paint and new upholstery work wonders. You could also hit up the second-hand market to fill in the gaps given online marketplaces and thrift stores are brimming with affordable treasures just made for that covetable, one-of-a-kind feel.
But if you’d like to shake things up without spending a cent, the best way to decorate on a budget is to start by decluttering then rearranging your existing furniture and homewares.
Lastly, if there is a piece that you just can’t compromise on why not try your hand at mixing splurge pieces with inexpensive finds? Some of the most interesting interiors utilise this approach. Start by layering a brand-new hero piece – it may be that bold, coloured rug or statement side table that you can’t stop thinking about – and then blend with your existing wares. Check out the Shelley Armchairs, Checkerboard Bone Inlay range and Athina Rugs. Et voila! It feels like new.
