This year more than any I think we’re all dreading the longer nights and shorter days. No matter your circumstances, everyone will be effected by the hike in energy prices. In our house I’ve made the decision that we won’t turn the heating on until October. At the start of the month I thought we wouldn’t need it anyway, but the past few mornings we’ve been tempted, so far we’re holding out.
Heat the human not the home!
Have you ever heard such a ridiculous sentence. These words belong in years gone by. I firmly believe that this sentiment should no longer be a worry for people. The government should have gotten their act together, they haven’t…..so we need to plan how we’ll heat our homes for the changing season.
Sound investments.
Everything is going up in price- everything! But some things are still worth the investment. Throws and rugs keep heat in your rooms, as do curtains. The one off payment for these will make a difference in keeping your family cosy this year.
I learned that putting a terracotta pot over four tea lights will generate heat. The terracotta absorbs the heat and then radiates it. So as long as the cost of tea lights doesn’t go through the roof we can have table top heaters at dinner time. Although I wouldn’t leave it unattended.

Keeping with your theme.
Grey is still massive in the interior design world, the bright contrasts paired with it, and white is more popular than ever don’t scream cosy and warm. However if you choose the right accessories for your rooms you can make them warmer without breaking the bank.

Lucy tiffney floral throw.
£55.
Next.

Fox & Ivy highland cow Sherpa throw.
£20.00
Tesco.
Layering is still on trend this season, as are bold colours. If you introduce throws and cushions they make your space look less cold, and keep your heat when you sit with them.

Structure linen cushion, multi.
£35.00
John Lewis

Marion linen cushion, putty.
£50.
John Lewis
If like us you have a tiled or wooden/laminate flooring it becomes even harder to heat your home. It’s amazing the difference a rug makes! Even better, they can be rolled up and put away in the summer months.

Carter ochre rug.
From £100.75.
Run Rug.

Rosette black hallway carpet runnner.
From £11.75.
Run Rug.
However you manage to heat your space and your family this autumn please remember you are not alone. If you get your home ready for the colder seasons now it will keep costs down until the heating has to go on.
We realise decorating is a luxury service, and we are lucky that we are busier than ever. We don’t walk around with our eyes closed though. No one has got it easy at the moment, so if we can help anyone in any way please pick up the phone.
The painters wife xxx
01236 424 804