A while back we posted some great tips on creating comfort in the home, adapted from The Comfortable Home by Jane Burdon. If you're still on a mission to make your home the ultimate cosy retreat, then here's ten more great tips!
1. Up the comfort with a good headboad
Wrought-iron headboards are beautiful and romantic, but uncomfortable to lean against without lots of pillows. Sleek contemporary designs offer cutting-edge style, and often sharp corners to match. If you enjoy reading in bed, choose a soft padded headboard that is securely attached to the bed base.
2. Create atmosphere with candles
Candles are flattering, atmospheric and mood enhancing and can transform the starkest and dreariest spaces into a relaxing haven. Buy inexpensive votive candles in bulk and use them liberally, especially in the bathroom.
3. Diffuse the light with curtains
When deciding on window treatments take into account how much privacy you require and the amount of light you like in a room. Sheer drapes provide soft diffused light and will allow you to make the most of a great view. Heavy lined curtains will muffle outside noises, insulate the room and block out large quantities of light.
4. Cosy up with cushions
Cushions have the effect of making seating feel and look far more comfortable. Scatter a casual assortment of cushions on your sofa and add a single plump cushion to each armchair. When additional seating is needed to accommodate guests, place generously sized cushions on dining chairs.
5. Keep clutter under control
To create a clam and functional kitchen you need to keep the clutter to a minimum. Gadgets and state of the art juicers may look fabulous on the counter top but they take up precious working space. If you are short of space try to find alternative homes for items that don’t need to be in the kitchen. If you need more storage space think about installing drawers behind unit kick plates or simple wall cabinets that stretch from floor to ceiling.
6. Take inspiration from nature
A scheme inspired by nature that embraces tactile elements is a supremely liveable look that will stand the test of time. Pale neutral schemes work brilliantly as a background for natural elements – as do leafy-green shades and darker neutrals such as coffee and chestnut brown. Enjoy combining wood, sisal and stone with linen, sheepskin or wool.
7. Improve the mood with sweet smells
Wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee – there is more to aesthetics than sleek surfaces and sophisticated furnishings. A kitchen filled with the enticing aromas of coffee or herbs and with delicious fruits and vegetables on view will stimulate the appetite, improve your mood and give succour to the soul.
8. Titillate your toes with rugs
Your home should feel as good as it looks. Generously sized wool rugs with a deep pile can be used to introduce warmth and texture underfoot. Large area rugs are perfect for marking out seating and relaxation zones.
9. Pick the perfect sofa
Deep sofas with low arms and feather-filled cushions are heavenly if you like laid-back lounging. To fulfil all your needs, opt for a selection of seating rather than the inflexible traditional three-piece suite.
10. Love a tub
Never forego a tub in favour of a shower. Nothing exudes comfort and luxury in a bathroom than a tub. Choose one that suits your space and you. If you are petite or very tall look for tubs with alternative proportions to standard-sized versions that will accommodate you more comfortably. Corner tubs are ideal for sharing with your partner and for bathing children together.
More great tips:
Adapted from The Comfortable Home by Jane Burdon, published by Ryland Peters & Small, Stg £18.99.
