Everyone needs a cosy pad to escape to so that you can recharge your batteries and regather your energy. But how do you do that when money is tight and you've bills to pay?
At this time of year in particular, making your space lovely and festive only adds to the enjoyment of the season.
So what to do? And what do you do when you share your space with others?
Here are some tips you might like to try.
Create a mood board
You can find inspiration from the interior magazines like Elle Decoration and the Sunday supplements.
Repaint - but if you are renting you might want to follow these tips to avoid upsetting your landlord!
Try some DIY projects
Here's a way to make your own fabulous cozy headboard.
Display family photos
Create a photo wall or mix and match frames. Visit your local printer to blow up your favourite prints to A3 or larger and frame them.
Update the curtains
You could add a statement theme to jazz a room up or just replace with calming neutrals to dial the volume down. If light is a problem, it's worth investing in black-out linings which will give you an extra hour of snooze time on light summer mornings and keep you warm in the winter.
Use seating in the bedroom
Create a cozy corner to read in by adding an armchair to your bedroom.
Add texture with throws and cushions
You don't have to spend a fortune. You can make such a difference with soft furnishings such as throws and cushions. Buy the cushion pads and the covers separately or make your own covers if you can sew.
You can also add character to your bedroom with bedding in different textures, colours and fabrics.
Hang String lights
These are pretty at any time of year. Stuff strings of battery operated lights into glass vases to add a cozy glow to corners and mantle pieces or drape over the kitchen or your bed to add some atmosphere.
Create a nook
If you've no room in the bedroom to add a chair, create a cozy corner in your main room - perhaps with a mini table or bookshelf and a lamp to read by.
Add light and reflection with mirrors
A decorating basic - make your space big by using the power of reflection. You could make a large mirror a feature of the room.
Add plants / flowers
Nothing spruces a room up like a beautiful floral display and you can find some reasonable bunches in stores like Aldi. Add an extra note of interest by displaying them in quirky ways, for example unusual china cups.
Light Candles
Very Hygge and there are so many types and fragrances to choose from at every price point. Candles are a really quick way to add coziness.
Make your own artwork
If you are the arty type, why not create a wall dedicated to your own artwork. I have seen some pretty convincing paintings simply done with acrylic paint. Or if you are into photography, why not display your work - I love black and white photography.
Replace the toilet seat or taps
No explanation needed on this one and is there anything more irritating than a dripping tap?
Display your make up / perfume bottles
If you don't have many ornaments, improvise. Antique perfume bottles and some of the more unusual modern fragrance bottles make a lovely display.
Hat boxes in stacks also make a great display.
Use modular furniture that can be moved around
If you're investing in furnishings, it makes sense to buy things you can move from room to room - and take with you when you move on.
No matter where you live, it's easy to add your own personality to your space and create a home that is welcoming and great to come back to after a hard day's work or studying.
What would be your top tip?
