The White Company Winter Warmers features in The Independent - 15 October 2008
All hopes of a long Indian summer have end¬ed, the heating is on, the curtains are drawn against the chill and it's time to get cosy at home. While you don't need to totally redecorate your house in tune with the seasons, there are a few easy tricks that will change the feeling from one of cool, fresh summer days to a more opulent and luxurious warmth that might just take the depression out of those long winter evenings.
THROWS & CUSHIONSSome interior designers suggest having two removable covers made for the sofa, one in pale linen for the summer and one in deep velvet berry colors for the rest of the year. This is all well and good, if you can afford it, and it does mean that you can wash them periodically, which isn't a bad idea. But if your budget doesn't run to that, consider buying a few throws and cushions in different textures that will instantly transform a room into something more cosy. Try
www.thewhitecompany.com.LAMPSHADES
You might think it sounds tiresome, but changing lampshades from cool cream colors to something darker with a gold lining that will bounce the light around just as effectively is a simple way to change the look of a room and make it feel more cosy.
WINDOWS
There's something about the summer that calls for light muslin drapes that let the sun flood through, but in the winter you need something more substantial. Curtains are expensive but consider fitting some plain blinds in a co-ordinating color and simply dressing the windows at the edges with a length of velvet or heavier material. This has the added bonus of stopping draughts round the edges and means you can get away with a lot less material. It's also a chance to add in some strong colors that will not overwhelm the room.
RUGS
An easy way to transform a room. Use light colors in sum¬mer and change over as the nights draw in for a cosier feel. Choose either dark colors or, if you still like the neutral look, consider the texture - sheepskin rugs are pale but delicious to walk on.
AND FINALLY, PUT YOUR FEET UP
The room has been transformed; it feels warm and opulent. So, for the final touch, buy a footstool, put your feet up and pour yourself a glass of something red and warming.
If you want something smart, The Little White Company is hard to beat. Wooden chair, £45
Tailor made for bedtime
This autumn, the White Comapany has introduced its made-to-order upholstery service using natural linen or fabulous velvet fabrics to create a personal touch in your home. The range of contemporary furniture includes a divan base, headboard, ottoman and chaise longue, with the natural linen available in neutral colours such as snow white and pewter grey , and the velvet fabrics in silver , oyster and mushroom.
...For sheer style and practicality it is hard to beat The little White Company's changing table This multipurpose unit — changing table on lop with a hanging rati on the side — houses six canvas storage boxes (£16 each).
