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Five Easy Pieces: Get Cosy

Right it’s that time of year. The heating is on – albeit sporadically – but the fire is lit and the socks are definitely out of the cupboard. So today I thought I would create a fictional cosy corner where you can imagine snuggling up with a book and a packet of biscuits.

pink velvet throw from cox and cox
pink velvet throw from cox and cox

I often like to imagine creating a new corner of the house by adding a few new things and to that end I have chosen, for our imaginary cosy corner, a velvet bedspread, a pile of cushions, a chunky throw, a new lamp and a great plate for the afore-mentioned biscuits.

biscuit plate from rowen and wren
biscuit plate from rowen and wren

Just add books or magazines and you’re all set for the season.

Now there is one thing you may have noticed and that is that there is still lots of pale pink around. It’s becoming a classic colour as it’s a great neutral. What has changed this year is how you style it – which is a slightly poncy way of saying what you put with it.

In recent years it has all been about warming up shades of grey but now it’s much more modern and punchy to mix it with dark oranges, burgundies and golds.

round velvet cushions from house curious
round velvet cushions from house curious

The other point to note – if you want to keep things modern or bring in a little change is that round cushions are a thing again. Actually, it’s always a good idea to have one or two as both beds and sofas tend to be rectangle with square cushions and rectangle pillows so adding another shape is a good way to add layers of texture and colour.

chunky knitted throw from french connection
chunky knitted throw from french connection

Next you’ll be needing a throw. Particularly at this time of year when it might not be quite cold enough for the heating but you need a little extra as you settle down for the next episode of that box set. Killing Eve anyone? It’s brilliant. We’ve finished that and just started The Truth About The Harry Quebert Affair. I read it last year and am interested to see the television adaptation. Plus it’s set in beautiful Maine and starts Patrick Dempsey. Or should that be the other way round?

rosie light by pooky
rosie light by pooky

And finally a light to see it all by and I included this one because I loved the rich colours which would go so well with the pale pinks at the top of the post. Right then winter bring it on. We’re all set now…

 

Kate Watson-Smyth

The author Kate Watson-Smyth

I’m a journalist who writes about interiors mainly for The Financial Times but I have also written regularly for The Independent and The Daily Mail. My house has been in Living Etc, HeartHome and featured in The Wall Street Journal & Corriere della Sera. I also run an interior styling consultancy Mad About Your House. Welcome to my Mad House.