10 ways to dial up cosy lighting in your home this winter

From ambient side lamps to festoon lights, here's how to set the mood.

We’re all well-versed on layering up come winter - whether it’s reaching for thermals or topping the bed with extra quilts - but layered lighting? Yep, it’s a thing.

Interior designers always advise using multiple lighting sources to create the most cocooning of spaces. And it turns out there’s no such thing as too many: a side lamp here and a wall sconce there, creates ambience that no big ceiling light can match. Add in a few candles and a standing lamp to cosy up a dark corner.

Here are some ideas to get you started - time to give those harsh spotlights the switch.

1. Table lamps, everywhere

The accessory every sofa and armchair needs is a side lamp. Small wooden tables are perfect for this, and they don’t have to match. Add a coaster ready for your favourite tipple and you’re all set.

2. …literally, everywhere

Once the above is accomplished, pepper more on around vacant surfaces, from bar carts to kitchen worktops; it’s amazing how they instantly warm up a space.

3. The bedtime formula

Two is the magic number when it comes to lazying in bed. A classic shade casts a gentle glow around the space, but for actual reading, choose a style with an adjustable or articulated arm. That way you can shine the light exactly where you need it - and keep it away from your snoozy companion.

4. Make those walls glow

If your electrics need a tweak, now is the time to dial up the drama on walls. Sconces provide decorative appeal in alcoves, while shaded wall lights can help provide task lighting in kitchens.

5. Fancy festoons

You can’t beat the whimsical feel of string lights. Festoon lamps are typically used outdoors, making them even more unexpected when used inside. Suspend them from the ceiling, or to frame a bed as seen here.

6. Pendant power

Kitchen island and pendant lamps go together like strawberries and cream. Clusters of threes are popular, but anything goes. Mine Pinterest for inspiration - will you make a statement with yours or opt for a stealth style?

7. Standing tall

Floor lamps take up little space and help visually by adding another layer of interest to a scheme. If you have an awkward corner spot, see how a tall light effortlessly bring it to life.

8. Light up your art

Picture lights naturally double up as wall lights, and help your framed pieces attract the attention they deserve. Interior designer Laurel Chick created hers by gluing a battery-operated cabinet light into the shade of a wall light, cleverly making for a wire-free, remote-controlled source.

9. Lantern love

Whether fixed into the wall, hanging over a porch or positioned on a hearth, a lantern filled with soft-glow bulbs, tea lights or even fairy lights will inject old-world charm into a space.

10. Candle-lit glow

If in doubt, break out the matches and marvel at the flickering shadows of candles. Portable and always atmospheric, ensure you’ve always got a stash of something to burn this season.

Holiday cut-off dates:

From ambient side lamps to festoon lights, here's how to set the mood.

10 ways to dial up cosy lighting in your home this winter

From ambient side lamps to festoon lights, here's how to set the mood.

1. Table lamps, everywhere

2. …literally, everywhere

3. The bedtime formula

4. Make those walls glow

5. Fancy festoons

6. Pendant power

7. Standing tall

8. Light up your art

9. Lantern love

10. Candle-lit glow

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