Winter decorating ideas to banish the cold

Nothing brightens up a long winter more than an enticing, warm and sumptuous home. Making sure your property is well insulated and draught-free is a must, but there are also plenty of ways to update your scheme using texture, colour, lighting and visual tricks to banish the cold and create a feeling of warmth and cosiness. It's all about winter decorating.

In this living room, layers of texture, colour and pattern all add up to create a cosseting scheme. Generous full-length wool curtains help to insulate the room, and their natural colour ties in with the striped rug, preventing the scheme from feeling too heavy. Patterned paisley wallpaper in a rich chocolate brown adds a cosy but elegant feel, perfect for winter evenings, while pattern draws the eye. A warm throw and soft firelight completes the look.

Take your cue from Scandinavian styling and opt for layers of white and cream to build an indoor winter landscape. Keep the look soft with faux fur rugs and throws, comfortable pouffes and plenty of tactile cushions. Including a striking winter artwork like this one will bring the outside in for cosy appeal - minus the cold...

Make the fireplace a focal point. This dining area benefits from a great combination of natural daylight from unadorned windows combined with the ambient glow of an open-fire. A sofg rug underfoot and plenty of cushions and crisp table linen provides a cosy feel.

Cosy up a bedroom with plenty of soft neutrals. The key for a winter look is to go for heavier textures such as wool, cashmere, faux fur, velvets and thick linens, building up several layers. Make the bed the focal point with plenty of subtle pattern and a warm throw. Carry the look through with a welcoming blanket-laden occasional chair. In this scheme, hints of gold, elegant candles and a roaring fire complete the look.

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Find more decorating inspiration at House to Home.