Winter light in London has a very distinct quality. Days are short and skies often become an endless stretch of pale grey. On the off chance the sun does come out, it sits low, casting long shadows across the room. Rather than wishing the dull season away, we take delight in designing interiors that glow, creating warmth that helps brighten our days despite the dreary weather outdoors.
Colour
Winter is the perfect time to embrace bold colours. We love using sunshine yellows, soft reds and bright oranges for extra warmth. Colour can instantly lift a room, making it feel vibrant and inviting even on the darkest days.
Lighting
In the darker months, good lighting is not just practical, it is essential. Table lamps, floor lamps, backlit shelving and wall lights all work together to create softness, depth and glow. Lamps switched on in the late afternoon instantly make a room feel welcoming, inviting you to slow down and settle in.
Top Tip: Set your lamps on a timer so they automatically turn on once the daylight starts to fade.
Reflective Surfaces
Winter is all about maximising light. Reflective surfaces help bounce light around a room, subtly brightening spaces without adding extra fittings. Polished metals, glazed ceramics, lacquered finishes and glass catch light, adding a gentle sense of luminosity.
Lampshades
Lampshades play a quiet but important role. Fabric shades diffuse light gently, casting a warm glow. Patterned or coloured shades add another layer of interest, bringing character even when the lamp is unlit. In winter, these small details make a significant difference.
Candles
Candles become a daily ritual, especially during winter. Their flickering light brings movement and intimacy. Grouped on a table, placed on a mantel or tucked into a corner, they add warmth in the most immediate and comforting way.
Mirrors
Mirrors are invaluable at this time of year. Positioned thoughtfully, they catch and reflect the light, amplifying its effect and brightening darker corners. We love adding mirrors to the back of bookshelves, splashbacks or any dark corner that may need a lift.
The winter season provides an opportunity to make our interiors glow. Thoughtful touches bring warmth and quiet joy to interiors well after the dark has settled. In winter, when daylight is scarce, spaces that glow lift spirits and make winter something to savour rather than endure.