Autumnal Spaces: 6 Ways To Make It Cosy

As the crisp autumn air rolls in, and the days grow shorter, there's nothing more inviting  than coming back to a home that is filled with comfort and warmth. And I’m not just talking about a kitchen with an Aga and the smells of cinnamon in the air, although that certainly adds another level of autumnal atmosphere.

In my opinion, one of the easiest and most effective ways to achieve a cosy vibe is through layering textures and colours. By mixing soft, sumptuous materials with more natural textures, you can create a cosy, welcoming space that envelopes and holds you in these darker, chillier days. Here are some ideas on what you can do to create a layered look for the seasonal shift that will help to keep the gloom at bay.

 1. From the Ground Up: Start with Rugs and Carpets

The foundation of any room helps set the tone for the entire space, so it is key to bear this in mind when looking at your living spaces.

Autumn is the perfect time to switch out lightweight rugs for something warmer. Both wool and shag rugs with a deep pile are good options for the colder months - offering up warmth and softness underfoot that creates a cocooning feeling. Alternatively, you could layer a smaller, patterned rug over a more neutral, larger piece which creates depth and a visual point of interest.

Soft Tufted Rug - Creating a soft cosy area in this Home Office by Crittall Interiors

 2. Blankets: The ‘Curl Up and Netflix’ Layer

Nothing says “relax” quite like a well-placed throw!

For the Autumn months, opt for heavier materials like a chunky wool blanket, or a softer type like an alpaca, that speaks to your sensuous side. I have a Yak wool blanket that was gifted to me after the birth of my daughter (a December baby) and it is the softest blanket I’ve ever touched. There is nothing more comforting than wrapping myself in it after lighting a fire, and settling in for a few hours of unadulterated joy watching period drama box sets with a cup of something warm. Play around with rich colours, like burnt reds, mustard yellows or dark greens to tie your décor into the season. If you generally prefer on a more neutral colour palette, consider having a coloured border or pattern detail in these shades, for a more subtle vibe.

Drape throw blankets over a deep armchair,  sofa, or at the end of your bed.  Layering can also create that desirable "lived-in" look, where comfort is key.

Tartan Blanket Bed Nook

 3. Cushions: Play with Texture and Size

Cushions are another great way to add layer and texture to your space. For autumn, think about mixing materials and colours, bringing in plusher fabrics and deeper shades.

Velvet cushions are for a plush and luxurious feel.

A boucle or sheepskin cushion offers a tactile quality whilst working with a more netural colour palette, and a chunky weave adds texture and a visual point of difference.

 Don’t be scared to play with size and shape: Mixing large with small, or square with round or rectangular pillows, can add depth and dimension to your seating areas. Personally I don’t love a large cushion on a small chair, as it can look too full, but on a deeper armchair or better yet, a  love seat, can comfortably take a little extra padding. Arrange them casually for a more inviting look that’s seemingly effortless.

4. Embrace Layered Bedding

When the colder months beckon, we tend to get out our warmer duvet’s  from the storage box in a bid to keep our toes toasty, and our beds cosy. The bedding we dress these in can be another way of bringing in some seasonal warmth.

Flannel or brushed cotton sheets provide a soft, inviting texture whilst also adding extra warmth. Note: Possibly not the best for anyone going through menopause. A satin cotton in a deep shade can bring in the warmth through colour, and when layered with a textured throw or quilt, can give the bed a luxurious feel that nods towards a hotel-like appeal.

Waffle cotton bedding adds texture, and layered with accent cushions creates a cosy pile that invites you to jump into bed with a giant leap.

5. Accessories: Bringing in Seasonal Textures

Autumn is full of beautiful colours and interesting elements. I love the red berries hanging off the trees, they make a striking table display. Adding natural elements to your interior decor creates a cosy atmosphere and by incorporating aspects of the outside world contributes to a harmonious feeling inside the home. A few other ways in which you can bring these elements into your décor is to use dried flowers or foliage arranged in a vase, or a woven tray that can be styled with a candle for added warmth.

These little touches add depth to your design and help to tie the whole room together with an autumnal feel.

6. Lighting: Softness and Warmth

 While fabrics and accessories are essential to creating a comfortable living space, lighting is arguably the most powerful driver when trying to create a cosy atmosphere. By having soft pockets of lighting in strategic spots that create a warm glow invites anyone within the space to relax and recharge. Think a mix of table and floor lamps for this. Candles create a feeling of intimacy whilst also contributing to the layered effect. Consider using candles on a daily basis. Personally, I cannot get enough of them.

Always use a warm-toned bulb to enhance the cosy atmosphere. Avoid harsh, cool lighting that can detract from the inviting feeling you’re trying to create.

This kitchen we designed features pockets of light in key areas that create a soft and inviting atmosphere.

 Final Thoughts: Layering for Comfort and Style

 By layering textures and fabrics throughout your home, you will add visual texture to the room, especially if you mix different patterns, colours, and materials. This  in turn provides comfort as we are intrinsically linked to the natural world, and even though our lifestyles are increasingly removed from this, leading to a disconnect, whenever we bring aspect of this into our surroundings we reap the benefit. Studies have shown time and time again, that by spending more time outdoors we increase our wellbeing and quality of life. And this can be achieved simply by adding colours that literally affect our mood. Worth doing in my book!