The key to getting your home ready for Autumn and Winter is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. From snuggly bedrooms to cosy living rooms, Debbie Leigh, Design Manager of ILIV fabrics, gives her advice on preparing for the cooler months. 
Pictured above: The Country Journal Collection, Colourway - Dove, from £27.00 per metre.
 
Energy Efficient Window Treatments
As the temperature drops, it's important to consider energy efficient window treatments such as thermal lined curtains. These curtains are designed to insulate your windows, keeping the cold air out and trapping the warmth inside. By installing thermal curtains, you can reduce heat loss through windows, ultimately lowering your heating costs and making your home more energy efficient. Opt for curtains with a thick, thermal lining that offers both insulation and light-blocking properties - this combination will help maintain a comfortable and cosy atmosphere while also providing privacy. Blackout and thermal linings are also great for bedrooms as they help to keep the room warm, increase energy efficiency and block out unwanted light promoting a good night's sleep.
 
Pictured above top, left to right: Siyuri Fabric Collection, Colourway - Evergreen, from £27.00 per metre. Chanterelee Fabric Collection, Colourway -  Auburn, from £30.00 per metre. Pictured above bottom, left to right: Chanterelle Fabric Collection, Colourway - Chintz, from £30.00 per metre. 
 
Inviting Guest-Ready Bedrooms
Prepare your bedrooms to welcome guests with a touch of warmth and comfort. Start by layering your beds with cosy blankets, soft duvets and plush pillows to create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. Consider adding an extra throw or two in complementary autumnal colours to enhance the seasonal charm. Don't forget about the lighting either - use warm, soft lighting fixtures and bedside lamps to create a relaxing and inviting ambiance. Adding some decorative touches like scented candles, a small vase of fresh flowers, or plush guest towels can also contribute to a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
 
Pictured above: Astoria Fabric Collection, Colourway - Rosedust, from 41.00 per metre.
 
Pictured above: Botanist Fabirc Collection, Colourway Coral, from £26.00 per metre.
Combining Fabrics 
Bedrooms offer a great opportunity to experiment with colour and pattern. From the bedspread to the curtains and even the headboard, there’s so much to play with. As a starting point work with 3 fabrics and the key is to vary the scale of the patterns. For example, if you pick a large-scale pattern as your main one, the second should be half the scale or size of the first, such as a large floral paired with a plaid or geometric pattern. The third can then be similar to either of the first two but using matching colours. When mixing 2 or 3 patterns it’s a good idea to also break them up with the clever use of plains either as plain cushions, trims or borders.
 
Pictured above top: Chanterelle Fabric, Colourway - Camo, from £30.00 per metre.
Pictured above left to right: Winter Garden Collection, Colourway - Adriatic, from £26.00 per metre.
Enchanted Garden Collection, Colourway - Rosedust, from £27.00 per metre.
 
Cosy Living Rooms with Layers of Soft Furnishings
To create a cosy living room, focus on incorporating layers of soft furnishings. Start by layering your sofa with comfortable cushions and plush throws in rich, autumnal hues. A soft, thick rug can instantly add warmth and texture to the room while providing insulation underfoot. Soft furnishings have a significant impact on the overall feel of a room. Layer plains and patterns carefully; when using bold patterns on upholstery it is best to keep the cushions plain or go for a plain fabric for the upholstery and experiment with a mixture of colours and patterns on scatter cushions.
 
Pictured above: The Country Journal Collection, Colourway - Dove, from £27.00 per metre.
 
Pictured above: Pembury Fabric Collection, Colourway - Henna.
 
Pictured above, left to right: Navajo Fabric Collection, Colourway - Quince.
Winter Garden Collection, Colourway - Stone. All priced from £26 per metre .
 
Pictured above: Teatro Fabric Collection, Colourway - Pewter, from £37.00 per metre.
Comfortable Dining Rooms Ready to Entertain
Prepare your dining room for entertaining by focusing on comfort and aesthetics. Start by choosing a dining table and chairs that are both stylish and comfortable, ensuring your guests can relax and enjoy their meal. Dress your table with a beautiful tablecloth or runner in autumnal colours to set the seasonal tone. Consider adding some elegant cloth napkins and placemats to complete the look. Incorporate soft lighting with the help of pendant lights or a chandelier above the table to create a warm and intimate ambiance. Adding a cosy rug under the dining table can also help anchor the space and provide added warmth and comfort for your guests.
 
Pictured above: Astoria Fabric Collection, Colourway - Stone, from £41.00 per metre.
 
Pictured above: Country Journal Fabric Collection, Colourway - Rosa, from £27.00 per metre.