KEEP THE HOME FIRES BURNING WITH OUR WINTER WARMING IDEAS
In most parts of Australia, even though the days are still pretty warm, the evenings and mornings are getting that lovely crisp, coolness to them.
We love the change of season. Watching the leaves turn gold, rust and red.
Autumn is a terrific time to start introducing some warmth to your home in preparation for Winter.
Here in Australia we don't have to worry too much about 'Winterising' our homes like those in Europe or Northern America and Canada, however there are some simple steps we can take to really cosy up our homes in preparedness for the shorter days and the cooler temps that make you just want to curl up, relax and get cosy.
This week, the Charcoal Team were discussing our yearly routine of packing up the Summer clothes, introducing boots and leggings to the wardrobe again (Yay!)...dusting off the crock pot for those warming Winter soups and stews, and most importantly, giving our homes the changes necessary for a comfortable chilly change.
Here is a selection of ideas that are quick and easy, yet will create a real impact in your home for Winter.
THROWS
Throws are such a handy item to have in the home and in our opinion you cant have enough!
We use ours to throw over our legs on chilly nights.
Image credit Elle Decor via Pinterest
A great way to add warmth and colour over a chair or sofa
Drape over the end of your bed for the dual purpose of keeping you warm on those nights you just need that little bit of something extra, and looks terrific too!
ADDING TEXTURE
'texture' - noun
The feel, appearance or consistency of a surface or substance
___________
Texture adds dimension to a room. Texture appeals to your senses in a visual way and also by how they feel.
Our extensive selection of cushion covers available instore or
via our online shop Peacock and Penny
A soft faux rug, a richly woven throw, sumptuously tactile velvet cushions, the earthiness of timber, leather, metallics and silks.
Adding layers via texture to the room will create an inviting, cosy space to relax and unwind.
Charcoal Interiors
A comfortable statement chair in luxurious fabric is the perfect addition to your relaxation space.
Charcoal Interiors
Charcoal Interiors
We recommend a chair that is wide enough to tuck your legs under.
Our Leather customised 'Peter' chair. Big and comfy.
Not sure which chair would be best for you or your space? And how about fabrics? If it all gets too hard, we are here to help. Come in with your seating requirements and let the team assist with finding you just the right option. Our design service offers seemingly endless possibilities.
Kate, Cathie and Colette in the Charcoal Interiors Showroom
FIREPLACES AND BRAZIERS
The cooler months dont necessarily mean you have to bunker down inside every evening.
We have a beautiful brazier at home on the back deck, that gets used a lot!
Watching a lovely crackling fire is better than any television show and sharing conversation over a glass of red wine is a fabulous way to connect with family and friends.
image credit M Borg via flickr
If you are lucky enough to have an indoor fireplace with a mantle, then take a couple of hours to give it a good clean and freshen up.
Charcoal Interiors Project
Here our client had the team renovate the original fireplace of this stunning 1800's Queenslander. The addition of some of their precious collectables accompanied by the aged mirror created a declaration of sophisticated eclecticism.
Charcoal Interiors project
In lieu of using the mantle as a showcase for collectibles, the Charcoal Design Team installed this stunning hand carved French Mirror which stands as a statement piece in the room, yet not detracting from the clients art collection.
Image - Tumblr via Pinterest unknown origin
A mantle piece is the perfect spot to showcase your favourite things, but perhaps it's time to take a good long look at your collections and refresh. Take the 'Chanel approach' and remove a couple of items for a less cluttered look. Adding beautiful blooms or greenery in a rustic urn can sometimes just be enough.
If it is too old to use, we love the idea of placing candles in the hearth.
image credit to coroflot.com via pinterest
RUGS
Don't be nervous about purchasing a rug for your home. Rugs are the perfect way to add warmth and character to a room. They also are an acoustic absorber....a beautiful way to cut down on the noise!
Charcoal Interiors Designer Cathie considering rug selections for our client
Don't skimp on size. In a living room, the size defines the conversation space and so it should be big enough for furniture legs to rest on.
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Charcoal Interiors Project
And in the bedroom you want to feel the rug out of your feet when you get out of bed on cold winter mornings. Below is a great example of placement of a rug for comfort as well as appearance.
Charcoal Interiors Project
So, the golden rule is not to skimp on size. Size really does matter!
If you are giving your room a complete make-over for the cooler months then we suggest choosing your rug first. Rugs make such a visual impact to the room, if chosen first you can then tie in your other soft furnishings with it.
CANDLES
Ah, one of lifes small luxuries is being able to light a candle in the bathroom, sink into a warm bubble bath and sip champagne don't you think?
photo credit bottomoftheironingbasket.blogspot.com via Pinterest
Winter and the colder months bring the perfect excuse to give the candles a dust off, or better still, get a whole set of fresh ones to last the months ahead.
Charcoal Interiors project
Create the ambience of a cosy retreat at home by grouping together a collection of candles. We recommend soy candles as they burn clean. We have an array to choose from in the showroom. Fill your home with a warm glow amidst the scent combination of Foxglove and Burnt Sugar Cane, Stinging Nettle and Vanilla or Gardenia and Angelica.
Witches Chase Soy Candles available. Limited Stock.
We also love these huge glass lanterns which are a real statement piece and the perfect home for large singular candles. All available in the retail section of our showroom.
Glass Statement Lanterns Available Instore Now. Limited Stock.
LUSCIOUS DRAPES
If you were thinking about taking the plunge and finally purchasing drapes for your home, then there is no better time than Autumn/Winter.
The beauty of our quality drape service is that we handle everything from fabric consultation, to measure up and installation with our experienced team.
Charcoal Interiors Project
With a seemingly endless array of fabric choices at our fingertips we can help you create the look you envisage.
Window treatments are perfect for creating warmth and luscious style to your home, whilst also reducing heat loss in Winter, and heat gain in Summer.
Contact us today for more information on our drapery service where we provide excellence in service and product.
Charcoal Interiors
41 Brookes St. Fortitude Valley
Brisbane. Australia.
Phone - 07 38526002
