It’s beginning to look a lot like... Well, not quite

But winter, and the festive season, are near so get your house in order, says

As we prepare to set our clocks back this weekend, the promise of cosy evenings at home becomes a reality. More time indoors gives us time to think about a few interiors changes, especially if we want our homes to look their best for the festive season.

Think cute reading nooks, sumptous soft furnishings and an all-over welcoming look for your family and friends during those cold winter days and dark nights.

Don’t blow the budget on replacing larger items or big renovations unless you really need to – a few well-chosen accessories and fresh touches can carry your home from summer into winter in no time at all. Keeping things simple can really pay off as it gets closer to Christmas as a plain backdrop can help show off a stunning Christmas tree or pretty lights to wonderful effect.

If you are going to make decor changes or invest in a key item of furniture, take some time to think about a colour that is going to see you through winter – why not opt for a deep, luxurious hue that will look great with twinkling fairy lights or candlelight in the background?

Whether you decide to plump for a new sofa or dining table, make sure that it is something that will be useful all year round. If you are having a crowd over for Christmas dinner but usually feed a family of four, why not look at flexible options that mean you won’t be left with a huge table that you don’t need on most occasions? If you are thinking of buying a new sofa, would a sofa bed be a useful addition when guests stay over?

Whether you have taken the plunge by investing in fresh pieces or decide that you don’t need anything new, this is the time to create a cosy scheme by piling on the cushions and throws to instantly transform your living space. There are plenty of beautifully textured fabrics around this season but anything with a knitted or faux fur finish – or even velvet cushion covers – can really help to add warmth and depth to your scheme; get the lighting right and you are all set to curl up with a good book to while away those winter nights!

For the ultimate cosy corner, get that wood burner fired up, or even consider having one installed for the season ahead. If you have a woodburner or open fire, this is a good time to have the chimney swept or do any safety checks before the cold weather hits.

If you do have a project in mind – perhaps that kitchen or bathroom just isn’t up to scratch for festive visitors or you need to rethink seating or sleeping arrangements – then it’s time to get furniture items or tradespeople booked as the months leading up to Christmas are busy ones for everyone.

Have your house looking its best – and cosiest – with some small changes that will see you all set for the festive season.