As many know I’m a bit of an interiors tart. I love playing with new styles, old styles (I have a bit of a thing for old solid furniture at the moment which I can give a little TLC to and bring back to life) and experimenting with colours and textures. One part of playing with decor that I’ve struggled with in the past is creating a room that works perfectly for both warmer and cooler months, may be cosy and warm or cool and calming. I’ve managed though, by playing around with tips and tricks I’ve seen on the internet (thank you Pinterest) to find a way or ways to put together rooms which work regardless of the temperature, the weather outside and whether I’m having a chilled Saturday night in or a busy Sunday afternoon in with the family.
Keeping it Neutral
All of our walls are painted in a neutral yet warm shade. There are no feature walls here, mainly because I change my mind about colours and styles so often that it would cost a fortune repainting! The benefit of this is that it is easy to use lighting and soft furnishings to create a mood that fits all weathers and seasons without costing you a fortune. If for example I found blue too cool a colour for a winter’s night then it would be a simple task of changing cushion covers and a few accessories around, not a huge lounge overhaul.
Budget Decor
Creating a room that works for you doesn’t need to cost a fortune. With some clever planning, as above changing around soft furnishings and using light to change a room you could alter the whole look of a room significantly on just a few pounds.
Use Light (and Dark) to Your Advantage
Light comes in many forms, from a soft glow to a harsher white light, from candles, wall lights, spotlights, lamps and of course natural light which may even be reflected in well-placed mirrors. How you use your lighting will completely change the feel of a room as well as the temperature. With a flick of a switch or the turn of a dimmer dial you could go from a busy, bright practical living room to a soft and sumptuous cosy and warm lounge.
Using roof blinds to block out the glare of the sun as well as keeping out the cold, grey weather in colder months alters the feel of a room and may also provide a design feature on its own, with many colours and styles available.
My Favourite Room
I adore my lounge. With cream walls and carpets I have a honey coloured sofa, silver and brass accessories, black and white and sepia pictures of the kids and more across the same theme. In the summer it looks fresh, summery and bright and in the winter (especially with candles lit) it looks warm, comfy and a little special. This room is nearly there, I’ve nearly cracked it and now just need to look at the bay window and how to make the most of that.
With the lounge almost done the next room on my hit list is the office cum bedroom (a rather large 16ft x 14ft room) which has been cleverly designed to offer me an office during the day and a lovely bedroom at night. I might have my work cut out on that one!
What are your top tips for creating the perfect all weather / any season look?