How to prepare for a cosy autumn

How to prepare for a cosy autumn

 cosy autumn

It’s that time of year again … the weather is cooling, the nights are lengthening and all we want to do is snuggle down on the sofa in a warm house. With worse weather sure to follow in winter, many homeowners use autumn as the ideal opportunity to prepare their homes for the end of the year – getting the boiler serviced, clearing gutters, repairing any damage on the roof and organising their furniture.

Longer evenings and cooler weather means we’ll be indoors a lot more than in the summer and that means we want cosy sofas in plush autumn colours and the promise of Christmas treats around the corner.

Here are some timely tips to help your autumn-home be the most welcoming it can be.

Stocking-up

Take some inspiration from the natural world and stock up ahead of the cold weather. Just like the squirrels, we can stock up our cupboards with preserves, non-perishables and new ingredients to spice up our end of year cooking. Whip up a hearty meal – stews, warming soups or simple jacket potatoes with yummy fillings – and wash it all down with a cheeky mulled wine that is easy to make or can be bought ready-made.

Ambiance

If you’re lucky enough to have a wood burner or an open fire then this helps create a welcoming atmosphere in the home. If not, then candles in warm rustic colours such as deep plum reds, berry or chocolate can create the perfect ambience to make you feel warm and toasty.

Try the luxurious chocolate and toffee aromas which are popular at the moment or if you’re more into fruit then opt for an apple and cinnamon scented candle, just perfect for late autumn.

Bring on the throws

Cooler weather means now is the perfect time to get out your favourite throws and bedding or indulge in some new ones. You may find you can avoid putting the heating on for a little longer if you dress your home appropriately as well as creating a new ambience.

If you want glamour, there are plenty of luxurious designs to choose from but you can always opt for simplicity and comfort with a simple white throw that goes with anything.

You should also take a closer look at your window dressings and do everything you can to prevent heat loss through the glass.

Thicker curtains are one option but if you’ve always fancied the idea of shutters then the range of options from firms such as Purely Shutters is sure to have just what you want. Shutters help keep out the worst weather and retain warmth in the home, and there’s a huge variety of materials, styles and prices to choose from.

Sort it!

If summer kit is still spilling out of the drawers, pack them away for the winter and enjoy a de-cluttered home. If you’ve the time, vacuum packing summer wardrobe items under the bed is a neat way to save space and prevent you from pulling out unsuitable clothes in your rush to get dressed each morning.

The party season

And last but not least, the party season is just around the corner so plan your social diary and have some fun! It’s a great time to enjoy the arts, cinema or even a blustery visit to the seaside so why not arrange an event with friends and make the most of this magical time of year?

Having sorted everything out at home you can enjoy the party season free from worries and return to a warm and cosy autumn home when you’re finished. Bliss!