The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
COUPLES’ RETREAT
Create a romantic hideaway in your own home by paying careful attention to materials, textures and lighting, suggests Jacqueline Wake Young
T here is an advantage of having Valentine’s Day in February – the weather is still likely to be chilly which gives everyone an excuse to cuddle up.
Now, as nice as it would be to do that cuddling up in, say, a country cottage or log cabin with a roaring fire, that’s probably out of the question at the moment.
But fret not, that romantic retreat feeling can easily be created in your own home and it’s a look that will work all year round, not just for Valentine’s Day.
Natural materials are where it’s at for creating a cosy, relaxing space – with an emphasis on wood, stone and earthenware, such as rustic-looking ceramics.
Soft, warm textures are next on the checklist, especially anything that has been handmade, such as knitted throws or cushions.
A real fire is ideal for creating a romantic ambience, but if that’s not possible the next best things are candles, especially in a relaxing fragrance such as lavender or bergamot.
Furs – faux of course – are great for snuggling under, or you can throw them on the floor to sit in front of the fireplace.
Attention should be paid to lighting – it’s hard to cosy up under the glare of a 100 watt bulb from “the big light” as Peter Kay would put it.
Dot smaller lamps around a room to switch on and off as the mood requires – and they will double up as task lighting for reading or knitting all those woolly cushion covers.
Heart bowls, set of three, £32.50, Oliver Bonas.
Pink heart-shaped tealights, £1.50, Primark.