As we spend more time inside over the winter months, creating a warming atmosphere is key. Studies show that our space can impact how we feel, from cold and uncomfortable to warm and cosy. Not only this, but texture and warm colours can create the illusion of feeling warmer through the mind's association. Warm hues and amber light can remind us of the sun, while a rug can not only trap heat but also reduce the urge to turn up the temperature. To swing in the direction of warmth, introducing the right vintage furniture or home decor can go a long way. From an antique rug to a mid-century chair in wool to a few vintage lamps and candles, take a look at our top tips for redecorating this winter season.
THE HUMBLE RUG
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Left image by Didi & Dora and sold on Bazaa
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Right image by Julia Nowak
Let’s start with a winter staple: the rug. While it might seem an obvious go-to, the humble rug is not to be underestimated. With the cost of living on many people’s minds, a rug can help reduce your heating needs by adding insulation and blocking drafts that leach out heat. Placement is important too—a rug doesn’t need to be centre stage. When the floor feels warmer underfoot, there’s said to be a psychological comfort that reduces the urge to turn the heat up.
Think about the areas where you spend the most time, or consider placing a large wool rug near the bed to reduce the shock of a cold floor in the morning, making it easier to start the day. Beyond practicalities, a rug will add a new piece of personality to your home. Bring in a bold mid-century touch or soften the space with a more muted Scandinavian Aztec piece. Whether it’s for warmth or the cosy aesthetics, the rug is a strong winter ally.
A MID-CENTURY WOOL CHAIR
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Left image by the History and sold on Bazaa
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Right image by Emilie Faraut
While a chair might not be at the top of the list, there’s something to be said about the sculptural nature of mid-century chairs. Designed with the shape of the body in mind, many of these styles sit in a relaxed, slouched position for ultimate comfort. Pair this reclined stance with the rugged-up feeling of wool, and you have yourself one cosy winter sitting spot. When it comes to wool, the benefits don’t stop at warmth. While insulating, wool is also stain-resistant, fire-resistant, and wicks away moisture during the warmer months. A wool-upholstered chair is a vintage furniture piece that will adapt and provide value all year round.
For a large, sweeping statement, the Imola Chair by Henrik Pedersen will add a vintage designer touch. For the ultimate reclining experience, the Jorn Utzon Chair and Ottoman—designed in 1965 in connection with the completion of the Sydney Opera House—is not one to be missed. A wave-shaped piece of vintage furniture that is sure to make a warm and weightless statement in any room.
POPS OF WARM COLOUR
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Left image by Did & Dora and sold on Bazaa
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Right image by Caroline Mangum
There’s much to be said about colours and how they impact the feel of a space. Colour can influence our perception of temperature in a room. Our minds associate warmer colours like red, orange, and yellow with elements like fire and sunlight. On the other hand, cooler colours are more attuned to water and shade. But this doesn’t mean an entire overhaul is needed. A few pops of colour layered with cooler tones can create texture and visual interest while adding the illusion of warmth.
If you’re a fan of the red theory, winter is the time to embrace the fiery nature of this colour through your vintage furniture selections. If your style encapsulates Art Deco, consider leaning into the rich jewel colours of this era—like the deep purple of this 1950s wool chair. Or if your space is more monochromatic, a muted mustard will add a warm, earthy touch. These chubby velvet modular chairs will soften a room with their colour as well as their organic curved form. If you’re seeking more affordable options, consider an amber glass vase and fill it with bright winter blooms.
AMBER LIGHT LAMPS & CANDLES
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Left image by Eclectic Revival and sold on Bazaa
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Right image by Cora Pursley
Our list of tips wouldn’t be complete without touching on lighting. Before the light fixtures or lamps themselves, the colour of your bulb will make all the difference. Cool lighting, which gives off a white light, can feel cold and clinical. Warm lighting, on the other hand, can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. While cool lights are great for areas like the kitchen or bathroom, warm bulbs provide living areas and bedrooms with a more relaxing feel.
Pop a few well-placed warm-bulb lamps around a room to disperse light for a more tranquil mood. The orange flicker of a candle flame or two will also add to the overall ambience. These Danish teak candle holders from the 1960s will suit many styles, from minimalist to mid-century to contemporary. And for you all your lamp needs, take a read of our previous blog post for a range of coveted lamp designs.
When rearranging your space to feel warmer for the winter, textures, colours, and light are all key. Keep an eye on natural materials like wool, warm-toned wood, and caine, and consider warmer hues that can compliment existing furniture—whether you’re opting for an antique rug, designer chair, a new vintage lamp, or a few pillows to change up the space.