Comforting home

AS THE SEASONS SHIFT, DESIGN A HOME THAT'S AN INVITING HAVEN, THANKS TO OUR TRIO OF COSY-LOVING EXPERTS

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Who doesn't love a cosy space to retreat to at this time of year? A place to hibernate from the outside world... but if your home isn't hitting the mark, how can you turn up the cosy factor? We asked two designers and a blanket expert to share their tips.

FEEL THE COSY

'A cosy home wraps you up the moment you step through the door,' says Bethan. 'It's not about perfection, but how the spaces in your home make you feel relaxed, safe and at ease.' Abigail agrees: 'Our surroundings have such an effect on us, so it's helpful to create havens of relaxation from our living rooms to dining rooms and bedrooms as an escape from the pressures of life.'

MAKE YOUR LIVING ROOM THE HEART OF YOUR COSY HOME

'Your living room can be the centre of cosiness in your home, somewhere to simply pull the curtains, and feel cocooned from the world outside,' says Bethan. 'A cosy living room will give you that feeling of instant relaxation from the moment you walk in,' she says. 'A thoughtful layout, blending texture and warmth with the furniture and accessories invites you to exhale, sit and stay a while. And yes,' she adds, 'It can be both a space to entertain and snuggle up to watch a movie, you just need to be flexible.' 'Oversized sofas, chairs that you can sink into, slubby pouffes, ottomans and soft woven cushions take centre stage in a cosy scheme for us,' says Abigail. 'I love a corner sofa for both socialising and cosying up for a movie,' says Claire, 'but I do also love a unique accent chair that offers a mix of textures.'

"Dark colours also ABSORB light, instantly creating a sense of DEPTH, INTRIGUE and WARMTH"