With winter on the doorstep, and temperatures heading south, suddenly cocooning inside seems like a very attractive option. But just how can you transform your breezy summer living room to a comfy, wintry living space? We caught up with The Designory director Melissa Bonney, who certainly knows a thing or two about the topic. She shared the simple ways she turns her living room into a cosy sanctuary during the cooler months.
Layout
“Cosy never means cramped, so make sure you edit your living space like you would your outfit,” says Melissa who says a room’s layout is the first thing to consider when creating a cosy space.
“Think about the flow of movement through the room and make sure you create an ease of connection within areas. There should be plenty of space for people to sit, relax, talk and unwind. Living spaces which allow for your family and friends to truly engage with each other are always the most inviting homes,” says Melissa.
Layers of texture
With layered texture a design signature for The Designory, it’s no surprise to hear that Melissa recommends the technique for creating an inviting atmosphere in the living room. “Nothing quite says cosy like beautiful textures, and we love to combine them across all surfaces,” says Melissa.
“For the walls, opt for woven artworks, textured wallpaper or even paint them a warmer shade. When it comes to decor items, think about what is going to make your space feel the most luxurious. Soft rugs or carpets underfoot, throws and cushions for seating all help to make a room feel homely, complete and comfortable,” says Melissa.
Get the glow
Melissa believes no living room is complete without a source of heat for the cooler months and her go-to for winter ambience is a gorgeous fireplace. “Never underestimate the power of a beautiful fireplace to create the perfect living environment,” she says.
“A fireplace becomes a gathering space in the home, a place where great conversations are shared, and we can relax and reconnect. Try integrating fireplaces into the wall or within joinery designs for a more refined and seamless feel. We love IXL’s new Cannon Latitude fireplace – its elongated profile is the perfect proportion for modern living,” says Melissa.
Lighting is another way in which you can inject warmth and mood into your home – table lamps, overhead pendants and even candle light can change the look and feel of the room.
Natural elements
Natural elements are key to The Designory’s aesthetic and there’s no denying that clever use of natural materials such as timber and leather adds instant warmth to a room. “Human beings have an innate connection with natural materials. It helps us to feel more grounded and connected to our environment.”
Photography: Jessie Prince | Interior design: The Designory
