HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR AUTUMN
The clocks went back last weekend, so what better time to prepare your home for Autumn and Winter? I explore two main themes in this article; seasonal home maintenance and adding cosiness to your interior design. In just ten steps, I’ll guide you to get set for the months ahead.
AUTUMN READY HOMES: THE PRACTILCALITIES
Are you ready to set aside some time this weekend to get your home Autumn ready? If so, the first step is to consider the practicalities. Yes, I know you might have hoped that I’d jump straight to the fun bit. However, maximising warmth and comfort requires more than a new blanket or two.
1. Home Heating
Check the last time the boiler was serviced and, if it’s been a while, get on the phone to your plumber. Sorting any issues out now is far easier than a mid-winter emergency call out! You could also ask them to bleed your radiators during the visit, to ensure they work efficiently.
2. Fireplace as the Focal Point
As the nights draw in, the fireplace becomes a focal point of the living room. So, whether you have a chimney, wood burner or electric heater, give it a bit of attention. This will likely involve a sweep, a bit of polish on metalwork and a dust, so it looks the part and functions properly. For those of you with wood burners, ensure you have a plentiful supply of timber.
3. Draft-proofing
The smallest gap can allow cold air in, but there is a simple way to keep it out. Strips of foam draught-proofing foam are low-cost and widely available from DIY stores. Stick them around the perimeter of external doors and window frames as required to boost thermal efficiency.
4. Added Insulation
Other DIY solutions that help to keep a home snug include blanket loft insulation and foil-backed panels that sit behind radiators to reflect heat back into the room. If you have a chimney that is decorative and not used, a chimney pillow can be installed to fill the gap.
5. Declutter
The next step is to clear any items that won’t be needed through the colder months. What can be packed away until Spring? Are there items in your home that you no longer use or need that could be sold or donated? A declutter creates the space needed for seasonal features.
AUTUMN READY INTERIORS
Now the practicalities have been addressed, we can focus on Autumnal cosiness. That is creating a home that evokes the season and ensures you enjoy returning from a day in the office, the school run or a brisk walk in the woods.
6. Switch Up the Duvet
Autumn and winter are seasons for rest and rejuvenation. For this reason, we’ll start in the bedroom. It’s time to replace the duvet with a higher tog option and wash and pack away your thinner summer bedcovers. This could inspire you to purchase a new set of bedding or a throw in nature-inspired autumn colours.
7. A Layer Underfoot
A great way to add a warm layer to any room is with a rug. Provide a soft, warm surface to step out of bed onto or a cosy rug beneath your feet in the living room. This is an especially noticeable Autumn upgrade in rooms with hard flooring.
8. Lighting up the Evenings
As we can’t rely on natural sunlight at this time of year, it is important to introduce lighting features to interior design. By decluttering, you now have space to introduce table lamps and candles for a soft lighting ambience. Add in a reading light for brighter, task lighting.
9. Soft Furnishings
Blankets draped on the sofa and bed are a seasonal must-have! I love the texture of a knitted or crocheted wool blanket. What’s more, if you are thinking about a new hobby, making your own is a great project for the Autumn! In addition, seek out tactile cushions made from fabrics including velvet or bouche. Also, consider hanging thicker curtains for autumn and winter window dressing.
10. Seasonal Scents
Aromas play a powerful role in our perception of a space and as we are less likely to throw open the windows, we need ways to keep our interiors fresh. One option is to collect items from nature on a walk. As an example, pine cones and evergreen foliage make a delightful decoration with a subtle scent. Alternatively, you can opt to burn apple, pumpkin and spice-scented candles.
A HOME FIT FOR AUTUMN
In a dedicated weekend, all of the points listed above can be achieved. Then, you can make a steaming drink, curl into a blanket and put your feet up, knowing your home is fit for Autumn.
As a final point, we know it takes more effort to get out during the shorter days. However, social connections are another important way to bring warmth into our lives. So, now that your home is looking the part, why not arrange a few friend or family get-togethers at yours?