Autumn/Winter Styling Tips to Keep Your Home Warm and Energy Bills Down
Announcement posted by 360PR 07 Apr 2026
As temperatures begin to drop across Australia, many households brace for the seasonal spike in electricity and gas bills. But according to Justine Wilson, Founder and Principal Stylist of Vault Interiors, creating a warm and inviting home this autumn and winter doesn't have to mean cranking up the heater.
"With energy costs continuing to rise, homeowners are becoming much more conscious about how they heat their homes," says Wilson. "The good news is that smart styling choices can help retain warmth, reduce heat loss and create a cosy atmosphere without relying heavily on electricity or gas."
From layered textures to strategic furniture placement, Wilson says a few thoughtful updates can make a noticeable difference to both comfort and energy efficiency. Here are her Top 5 Autumn/Winter Styling Tips to keep homes warm, welcoming and cost-effective during the cooler months.
1. Layer Textures to Trap Warmth
Soft furnishings are one of the easiest ways to make a home feel instantly warmer.
"Think chunky knit throws, wool blankets, velvet cushions and layered bedding," says Wilson. "These fabrics help retain warmth while creating that cosy, winter-ready look."
Styling tip: Stick to warm seasonal tones such as caramel, rust, deep greens and warm neutrals to visually enhance the sense of warmth in your home.
2. Add Rugs to Insulate Floors
Bare floors, particularly tiles, concrete and timber, can allow heat to escape and make rooms feel colder.
"Adding large rugs to living areas and bedrooms creates an extra insulation layer while also softening the space visually," Wilson explains.
Styling tip: Choose rugs that extend under key furniture pieces such as sofas and beds to create a more cohesive and insulated feel.
3. Switch to Heavier Window Coverings
Windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss during winter.
"Swapping lightweight curtains for thicker fabrics like linen blends, velvet or thermal-lined curtains can significantly help retain heat indoors," says Wilson.
Styling tip: Keep curtains open during the day to allow sunlight to naturally warm the home, then close them at dusk to trap heat inside.
4. Rearrange Furniture to Maximise Warmth
Small layout adjustments can improve how heat circulates throughout a home.
"Avoid blocking heaters or air vents with large furniture pieces," Wilson advises. "Instead, position seating areas where they can benefit from both natural light and warmth."
Styling tip: Creating smaller conversation zones in large rooms can help spaces feel warmer and more intimate.
5. Use Lighting to Create Warmth
Lighting plays a surprisingly powerful role in how warm a room feels.
"Cool white lighting can make a space feel stark and cold," says Wilson. "Switching to warm-toned bulbs and adding table lamps or floor lamps creates a softer, more inviting glow."
Styling tip: Layer lighting with lamps and candles to create a cosy atmosphere without relying solely on overhead lights.
Beyond comfort, Wilson says seasonal styling can also influence how buyers perceive a property. "Buyers respond emotionally to homes that feel warm and inviting," she says. "When a home looks cosy and energy-efficient, people immediately imagine themselves living there, which can make a real difference when it comes time to sell."
As Australians prepare for the cooler months ahead, Wilson believes homeowners should think of seasonal styling not just as decoration, but as a smart way to improve comfort, reduce energy costs and refresh their living spaces. "A cosy home isn't about spending more on heating," she says. "It's about creating layers, warmth and thoughtful spaces that work with the season."
PR Contact: Lisa Solomons | 360PR | E: lisa@360pr.com.au | M: 0416 175 518