How to curate a homely hearth for cosy winter nights

It’s that time of the year when we’re looking forward to a beautiful blossoming spring and leaving the cold winter chill behind us. But as much as most of us love the warmer temperatures and lighter mornings, we’re fast approaching the last chances to enjoy the charm of a proper cosy night in by the fire. Winter may bring us frost and snow but it also brings us irreplaceable homely days, warm tea and crackling fireplaces.

To overcome their infamous miserable winters, the Danish created a concept which is now part of their national identity. It’s all about that feeling of cosy contentment and the wellbeing you experience by enjoying the simple things in life. Its name? Hygge – pronounced HOO-GAH! If you love immersing yourself in your surroundings by the captivating fragrance of a burning candle, or if the simple touch of a fluffy blanket whilst you’re snuggling up on the sofa truly warms up your soul, you’re feeling the Hygge.

Despite their terrible winters, Denmark is considered one of the happiest countries in the world - so we’ve decided to bring you some tips on how to recreate the perfect cosy winter nights around the hearth in your own home.

Blend in softness

Start with appealing textures on the sofas and cushions placed on the furniture surrounding your hearth. Incorporating fabrics such as; cashmere, soft wool or flannel to your interior is a must - and combining them with laid-back tones like pastels, ivories or light greys will allow you to achieve an incredibly sophisticated and relaxed look. The Global Luxe fabric range from Clarke & Clarke is the perfect example of delicate textures and soothing colours. You can also incorporate chunky knit blankets to create a visual contrast and immerse yourself in ultimate cosiness.

Sense the tingling fragrances

Fill the space around your hearth with scents that remind you of good memories. Aromas can transport us to a specific place or remind us of that special person in our lives. Finding the right one for certain moments can help lift your mood and ease your mind. Rich jasmine can take you back to your holidays on the Spanish coastline, lavender can evoke memories of a loved one’s linen, while the fragrance of fresh cotton and vanilla can remind you of the scent of your mum’s favourite fabric conditioner.

There’s also something special in how a candle burns whilst the twinkling light dances. You can find Wax Lyrical on the top floor of our studio building with a wide variety of long lasting candles such as fresh linen, Mediterranean oranges, wild honeysuckle and much more. Fragrances that will help create an idyllic and tranquil atmosphere ready for you to relax and enjoy some ‘me time’.

 

Immerse in a luxurious feel

Soften up your floors with a sumptuous and delicate rug next to your hearth. There’s a wide variety of fabrics available for winter such as cottons, yarns or even faux fur so, pay us a visit in our Sheffield store to feel and identify your favourite texture and make sure you give your feet a proper spongy party. Rugs can also help to achieve visual harmony within any space dividing and defining areas for a consistent sensation so, getting the right size and shape will make a big difference.

Our experts are always available in store to assist and advise you in case you’re not sure about exactly what you’re looking for. In the meantime, take a look at our Asiatic Plush Rug, considered the deepest on the market and available in a variety of different colours. This could be the perfect addition to that Scandinavian look people hanker after.

Create a flattering glow

Ambient lighting is really important when trying to establish the mood of your main living area and creating an ambience that complements the warm glow of an open fire. If you’re aiming for a soothing vibe, choose a vintage style bulb which gives a lower level of calming light. A table light like the Oda Small Lamp is a perfect example of muted warming light. Dimmable lights are great at regulating the intensity from the main spotlight of a living area.

Now for the final steps. Step into some fresh warm socks and loose loungewear, grab your favourite hot drink or book and complete your whole Hygge experience by gazing out your window at an English winter sunset – should you be lucky enough to have a room with a view!

At Ponsford, we’re proud to supply luxury furniture choices that suit a variety of individual styles and tastes. Discover more by exploring our range of accessories online or, alternatively, visit our showroom here in Sheffield to speak with one of our interior experts today.