Happy home makeover

From clever lamp tricks to cosy winter touches, transforming your living space is easy and doesn’t have to cost a fortune, says HANNAH BRITT

AS THE saying goes, home is where the heart is. But the latest research has revealed that for some, home can be a major source of stress too.

A survey of 2500 Brits by home interior specialists Hillarys (hillarys. co.uk) found almost a quarter of UK adults feel too embarrassed to invite people into their living space.

Outdated interiors, messy rooms and a lack of space were all cited as reasons.

If that sounds like you, don’t panic, help is at hand.

Charlie Marshall, interiors expert and founder of Loaf, insists creating a happy, welcoming home is simple – and won’t cost a fortune.

He said: “A few little changes can make all the difference to transform the home into an inviting space for guests.

“And the best bit? No home is too small to look stylish.”

Here he shares his top tips.

CONTRAST YOUR CUSHIONS

A couple of cushions can go a long way. Combine different sizes, colours and textures to cosy up a dull corner or make your sofa look more inviting.

Opt for contrasting tones, for example a deep blue sofa paired with bright yellow cushions.

Or, if you have a rug on your floor, pick a colour from the pattern and choose cushions in that shade. This ties the room together subtly.

PLAY WITH COLOUR

Light, pastel tones always work well in interiors, especially if you’re looking to brighten a room.

However, this season we’re seeing homeowners be more adventurous with colour and using zingier, brighter shades.

Look for inspiration on social media platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram.

And why not add a splash of colour to a plain room with a standout feature wall using brightly coloured paint or wallpaper.

MAKE IT COSY

Blankets thrown across the sofa or bed will keep you nice and snug and create an inviting, layered look. Have a few stockpiled so you can mix it up with different colours, textures and patterns.

LOVE YOUR LAMPS

When it comes to lighting, opt for a warm glow rather than stark white light. When choosing a colour for your ceiling light or lampshade, go for copper or brass as these give off a lovely soft light.

As we head towards winter, side or floor lamps give a cosy feel to a room. A simple glass lamp in an easy-to-live-with neutral shade is always a winner. They sit beautifully in almost any room, no matter how many times you redecorate.

ROLL OUT A RUG

If you have hard flooring, opt for a textured or brightly patterned rug. Not only will this add contrast to the room and bring it all together, it will make it warmer underfoot too.

REFLECT THE LIGHT

Mirrors soften a room, especially round designs with barely-there brass frames. They are so simple but are extremely versatile and can make a space look much bigger.

Hang one over a fireplace, or on a wall opposite your garden window to open up the room and bring the view inside.

MULTI-TASKING MARVELS

When guests come to stay, you want a sofa bed that is quick to set up and ready at the drop of a hat. The key is to look for fuss-free sleeping solutions.

If space is limited and you don’t have the luxury of a guest bedroom, be savvy and create a multifunctional space.

Armless sofa beds or sofa bed love-seats will free up space and are great for smaller city flats and sitting room nooks.

Explore stackable daybeds, trundles or boxed beds, which are dual-purpose alternatives to sofa beds.

NATURAL FIBRES

Don’t go for starched, ironed bed linen, instead choose laid-back 100 per cent linens that feel soft, natural and lived in.

Linen bedding needs no ironing, making it totally fuss-free and easy to throw on at the drop of a hat.

And be sure to bring the natural look into other areas of your house, using textures such as wicker and raffia in baskets and storage boxes. ● For more information on Loaf, visit loaf.com