The leaves have fallen and there’s a chill in the air: yes, winter is surely upon us. At this time of year, following a crisp country walk or festive activities in the city, there’s no place we’d rather be than curled up at home. After all, ’tis the season for interiors that are sleek and snug – think stylish snowy colours, luxurious materials and burning fires. In need of inspiration? Here are five properties on the market that strike the right balance between cosy and chic, from a red-brick Mayfair mansion to a modern Marylebone apartment.
Brick Street, Mayfair, London
This beautiful Grade II-listed home wouldn’t look out of place down a winding country lane, thanks to its charming red-brick façade and quaint chimneys. In fact, it has a prime location in the heart of Mayfair, moments away from both Green Park and Hyde Park. Inside, an array of soft greys defines the palette, while lavish carpets and furnishings provide a wonderful sense of warmth. There are also fabulous floor-to-ceiling curtains in silvery tones, which look particularly festive when drawn, and fireplaces thoughtfully placed in plenty of rooms, from the reception to the dining room and a number of bedrooms. There’s even one in the home cinema, a particularly snug space decorated with incredibly comfortable sofas and a mahogany-style wood panelling.
Cadogan Square, Knightsbridge, London
Is there anything as cosy as a night spent at home with the fire burning? During the winter, there’s perhaps little we love more than doing exactly that – especially when the backdrop is as beautiful as the one at this property. Situated within a handsome period building in Kensington, this west-facing apartment overlooks and has access to Cadogan Square, one of the city’s most glorious private gardens. But inside is where the real magic happens: the interiors have been conceived by the world-renowned architect and designer, Viktor Udzenija, who has paired stunning original features with slick contemporary elements. At this time of year, the main living area – featuring fuzzy carpets, abstract art and Italian marble – comes to into its own, especially when that fire is lit and the large sofas are filled with loved ones.
Marylebone Lane, Marylebone, London
The lighting is the first thing you’ll notice when walking into this Marylebone apartment’s open-plan living and dining room. A contemporary interpretation of a chandelier artfully hangs over the dining table, while an installation-style light feature sits above the main seating area. Together, they create an ambient glow that illuminates the space beautifully, particularly on a dark and frosty evening. Elsewhere, the interior styling is exquisite: there’s glistening gold wall panelling that makes an elegant statement, objet d’art and antique vessels sitting pretty on shelves and podiums, and a gorgeous bar, which is perfect for serving something sparkling. But the most cosy space here is the reception area: a circular sofa in pleasing shades of pale green and pink is paired beautifully with a large, luxurious rug. The perfect place, we think, to enjoy that glass of champagne.
Grosvenor Square, Mayfair, London
This magnificent Mayfair apartment does cosy minimalism well. It’s no easy feat to get the aesthetic that is equal parts stripped-back and snug right, which is why we’re particularly impressed with the interiors of this property. A serene, wintery scheme runs throughout and is characterised by snow-white furnishings, deluxe gold accents and fluffy, frost-coloured carpets. The living area, in which a series of cream sofas face a large flat-screen TV, calls for movie nights at home, while a sparkling glass light feature defines the dining area. The main bedroom, which comes with its own dressing room and en-suite, is as sumptuous as a five-star hotel suite: starring a pared-back palette and plush materials aplenty, we can’t think of anywhere we’d rather pamper or unwind.
Chester Square, Belgravia, London
This five-bedroom, seven-bathroom family home in Belgravia is a Thomas Cubitt-designed beauty. Its white, stucco-fronted façade bears the hallmarks of grand Neo-Classical architecture and sets the tone for interiors, which also evoke grandeur. Unfolding over six floors and measuring more than 4,200 sq ft, the living spaces have been meticulously designed from tip to toe. When the temperature drops, head to the lovely reception room, which has been arranged around an ornate fireplace. The dining room, meanwhile, has been furnished with tactile dining chairs for sinking into while enjoying a feast. And then there’s the cinema: located on the lower-ground floor, this hidden gem has velvety walls in a rich purple hue and a large corner sofa for snuggling up on.
