A comprehensive guide to essential creature comforts.
It’s (finally) cooling down!
Winter is finally upon us. This was a long, hot summer in the worst sense of the word, and although many parts of the country did not get the rain it might be used to, at least the temperatures have mellowed out a bit.
There is nothing like crisp Autumn morning to get you in the mood for hibernation.
We’re getting a head start on the hibernation game and invite you to enjoy our creature comfort wish list.
As much as woodsmoke and exhaust fumes are the unfortunate signature scents of a South African winter, we think that can be improved upon.
Essential oil burners and diffusers
These are great for bigger spaces and provide a stronger scent profile, which lingers in your home. Add to this the fact that many essential oils have wellness benefits and it’s the perfect way to double up on winter comforts.
We just love the Anke Products and Odie Brown Collection ranges.
Scented Candles
Not only do scented candles smell amazing, giving a subtle fragrance to smaller spaces, but they also play an added roll in creating a hibernation hideout: mood lighting! There are so many candles to choose from, some are fruity and foodie, with fragrances like cherry pie, cinnamon, and vanilla, or you can opt for warmer scents like sandalwood and cedar.
For aesthetically beautiful candles check out Ethereal Candle Crafters.
Home fragrance guide
Textures and fabrics
We are not just talking about fleece and chenille now. While these are classics and well known for their comfort factor, we are talking about (faux) fur!
Faux so good!
These days, the faux fur industry has been revolutionised and the different textiles and materials used are better than ever. Faux fur throws and blankets also keep their lustre and in general last much longer than before. Now before you pull up your nose at fur as a design choice lets remind you of some of the most popular trends in home furnishings recently. Drawing inspiration from series like Game of Thrones or Vikings, fur makes sense. It is the iconic luxury material. From elegant ladies in fur lined capes and gloves, to the clothing of queens and empresses, fur has been the ultimate in elegant comfort.
The ultimate fur snuggle blanket
If a fur blanket sounds a bit over the top, at least get yourself some luxurious local wool-slippers.
If you need assistance in creating the perfect snug room, click over to DIYGirls for some great inspiration.
Hot drinks on demand.
Now that you’ve set the mood, why not treat yourself to an old-fashioned drinks trolley or coffee station. While the ultimate will be to have your very own barista, there are ways of getting great drinks at home. (No, we are not talking about uber eats…)
Create a space where you can prepare your hot drinks without trudging all the way to the kitchen. Whether you go as basic as a kettle and a jar of powdered hot chocolate or get yourself a restaurant grade coffee machine is up to you – just ensure that its close to your comfort zone, easy to use and clean (no point in making more work for yourself) and stocked with all your favourite winter drinks.
Do you want to spend the price of a car on your coffee corner? The La Marzocco KB90 Commercial Espresso Machine will only set you back R 371,455.00… (and remember – the beans are sold separately!) Have a look at the Jura Coffee Machines starting at R17 300.
On the other hand, a 2kg tin of Milo goes for around R500.00 and you can get a kettle for less than R200.00…So what you do depends only on your budget!
This winter, make it all about you – yes, summer bodies are made in winter, but what’s wrong with a summer body that’s the result of some selflove and snuggles?