Changing with the Season

"I fell for this year's trends of paint and furniture - filling my home with sleek furniture and painting my whole home in cool white and grey tones - it's very chic but a bit sparse and gallery-like. Now that the cold weather is on it's way and the snow is starting to fall, I'm concerned that my home will feel chilly and uninviting in the cold and dark winter months. I don't want to repaint and redecorate but I'm worried I may have to....what can I do to warm up the look (and feel) of my home?"

There are lots of options for you. Sometimes when we follow trends they may take us in a direction and leave us feeling a bit uncomfortable. But relax, there are some very simple solutions for your dilemma and your space will feel so comfortable and warm for both you and your guests.

Follow these three elements.

Nature

Any and all natural elements add instant warmth to any space. So try integrating a few organic elements to your space. Try adding greenery - anytime you add plants or flowers, it adds life to your space. Try something easy to take care of (especially if you are not a gardener at heart). Natural grasses, ferns, peace lilies are all great options. Look for something full and lush not spiky and sparse. for special occasions, opt for fresh cut flowers. Other ways to add natural elements? Woven place mats, rattan baskets to hold extra blankets, a wood coffee table or end tables, a stump side table. Look for bowls or trays made of natural wood, or even just some sculptural wood pieces to display on your coffee table, console table or bookcase. The options are endless.

Props

Add some softness. Adding soft texture to any space equal warmth (the colour isn't even a factor). Look for chunky woven pillows, a cashmere blanket, or a sheepskin throw or area rug. Deep colours (like eggplant purple, chocolate brown and brunt deep red) work will all neutrals and add richness and sophistication to any room. An area rug can add colour, pattern and texture but something neutral is best. Accessories like books, can add personality to the space.

Lighting

mixing up your lighting can really create ambiance in any room. Invest in dimmer switches - in the evening 100 watt bulbs can be awfully harsh. Add floor and table lamps, candles, pot lights - the idea is to layer your lighting so that you can achieve any look you desire at any point in the day.

Making a room feel warm does not mean we need to work within a certain colour palette, it is creating the sensation of warmth and comfort. By following the three above mentioned elements you can add warmth to any room in your home regardless of the colour on the walls.