Bringing Warmth Into Your Home..

“I see the turning of a leaf dancing in an autumn sun, and brilliant shades of crimson glowing when the day is done.” ~ Hazelmarie Mattie Elliott

It’s that magical time of year again; autumn. The cooler weather rolls in, the light is hazy, the leaves are bright shades of red and gold, and the evenings are dark and crisp with the crackle of log fires.

Autumn in the Welsh border counties is astoundingly beautiful as the sunlight is low across the valleys, the brooks babble ever faster, and the forests and hills sparkle with colour. Apple orchards hang heavy with falling fruit, pumpkins are ready for carving, and country kitchens are filled with the comforting smells of baking.

So, let’s embrace the changing seasons by bringing warmth into our homes with these simple tips.

“And the sun took a step back, the leaves lulled themselves to sleep and autumn was awakened.” ~ Raquel Franco

When an extra jumper isn’t quite enough, what can we do to make ourselves cosy at home?

Now is the time to bleed your radiators and get your annual boiler service done to ensure everything is running efficiently. If you have underfloor heating take up the rugs to allow the soles of your feet to get really toasty. Check your windows for draughts and close your curtains as evening draws in to keep the much needed warmth inside.

Be sure to outfit your rooms with chunky blankets and warm throws. Additionally, sheepskin rugs, heavy velvet curtains, and soft fabrics will create a warm atmosphere. And, of course, our Welsh cottages usually benefit from exquisite open fires and log burners so you can bask in the fires’ glow. Snuggling on the sofa under a knitted comforter sipping hot chocolate before a flickering fire must surely be one of the most blissful experiences there is!

“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.” ~ Emily Bronte

We often don’t consider bringing autumn’s natural majesty indoors. We decorate at Christmas with ivy, mistletoe, and holly, and in the summer months, we have vases of fresh seasonal flowers. So this autumn, why not decorate your home with rustic and delicate tree branches, dried hydrangea, evergreen fronds, and Michaelmas daisies?

Another way to create elegant and colourful autumnal décor is to fill glass bowls with pomegranates, figs, nuts, and dried gourds. Opulent, decadent, and inviting – what’s not to like?

“Wild is the music of the autumnal winds amongst the faded woods.” ~ William Wordsworth

Nothing quite says autumn like the delicious scent in the wind of bonfires, mulled cider, and apple pie. Bring these rich aromas into your home by filling a wide shallow bowl with spices such as dried orange, star anise, cinnamon, peppercorn, and clove.

Nestling candles or incense in the bowl as well will fill your home with soft smoky fragrances and create a rich, inviting atmosphere.

“Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.” ~ Jim Bishop

Gold is one of the primary colours most associated with autumn and gives a simple way of bringing a sense of warmth inside. Lighting is essential, so choose warm light bulbs in place of LEDs to provide an easy fireside glow in your rooms.

Add touches of metallics like brass and copper, which reflect light and change hue as the day passes.

And last but not least, select rich earthy golds for your soft furnishings, rugs, and wall décor to tie the look together.

“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” ~ Albert Camus

In the UK, we are famously excited about warm weather and sunshine. We are the brave folk who are BBQ’ing in jumpers and sitting in beer gardens with blankets to make the most of spring and summer’s rays.

Yet, we forget how wonderful the colder months are and what a comfort it is to be safe and sound in our warm homes with loved ones. How will you bring warmth into your home this autumn?