COSY TO THE MAX

Survive and thrive this winter by indulging in cosymaxxing rituals. We explore how to level up your home comforts, ready for self-soothing

- Text Shelley Tustin

When it's bitterly cold outside, and you've gone to work and come home in the dark, there's nothing better than snuggling up in your PJs, maybe lighting a candle and burrowing under a fluffy blanket. These little self-soothing rituals now have a name: cosymaxxing, or cosy maximalism. It's similar to the Danish concept of hygge, but while hygge is all about connection - creating a comforting and convivial atmosphere for spending time with loved ones - cosymaxxing experiences are more self-focused, designed as an antidote to stress, fatigue and the general malaise of winter. It's about finding the activities that make you feel cosy and relaxed, like reading in bed, a cup of tea in a patch of sunshine, treating yourself to a solo dinner by candlelight, or watching movies in a nest of blankets. Of course, getting that cosy feeling begins with a cosy environment. Read on for tips on getting your place feeling homely, snug and ready for relaxation.

Colour me cosy

While summer is for wide, open windows and colours that remind us of beach days or gardens in bloom, winter demands a warmer, swaddling palette of hues. Interior designer Charlotte Minty says, "The idea that the application of warm hues - located on the red, orange and yellow spectrum - inherently makes a room feel cosy still holds. But also consider other snug and inviting colours such as terracotta and deep jewel tones, which are also adept at capturing warmth and comfort. Another option is rich chocolate brown, which is proving to be a highly popular choice in 2025." For maximum cosiness, take your chosen hue over all four walls and across the ceiling to feel embraced by colour. These deep and moody hues can also be used as accent colours in cushions and throws that can be switched out in spring when the weather thaws.