Ways to stay cosy for less this winter

Maximise insulation

“Well-insulated ceilings, walls and floors help to retain heat and because less energy is needed to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, it can reduce the cost of heating your home,” says Brendon O’Meara, owner of Binna Burra Construction on the NSW Barrington Coast. “Adding or replacing insulation can make a big difference.” According to Victoria’s Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, effective ceiling insulation can save up to 20 per cent on cooling and heating costs¹.

Identify draughts

Draught-proofing can be one of the cheapest and most effective ways to keep your home warm—and according to the federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, it can cut heating bills by up to 25 per cent². Start by sealing gaps around any external doors with adhesive weather strips or door snakes, which are generally low cost and easy to install.

Check for leaks around windows, skirting boards and even unused fireplaces—anywhere cold air can sneak in and warm air can escape. Even small adjustments, like adding a heavy curtain over the front door, can make a big difference.

Seal off unused spaces

If you’re not using a room regularly—such as a spare bedroom, laundry or formal dining area—close the door and focus heating efforts on the spaces you actually live in. It’s a small tweak but it can help to trap heat where you want it most and keep your energy use in check. Bonus: it can make your main living zones feel warmer, faster.

Don’t forget the fan  

“Switching on a ceiling fan in winter may sound counterintuitive but using the ‘reverse’ option helps keep your home warm,” says O’Meara. “As warm air rises, the fan circulates it back down to the floor.”

Encourage small shifts

If the heater’s always on full blast or lights tend to be left on around the house, it could be worth resetting the routine. “People are more likely to change their habits when they understand the reason behind the shift,” says Lisa Hodgson, creator of The Intentional Home Program. Framing it around something positive—like trimming energy bills to help fund a holiday—can help it feel like a win. And it doesn’t mean going without: what’s most important is that you feel comfortable in your home.

Consider colour

If you’re redecorating or making small upgrades with new bed linen or cushions, warm colours will make all the difference to the cosiness of a room. “Visually, warm colours ‘come in close’ so to make a large bedroom feel restful and snug, choose warmer shades,” says interior stylist Fiona Gould. Think rose pink, scarlet and terracotta, plus shades of brown and beige. To warm up your bathroom in winter, try new, fluffy towels in rich, earthy colours.

Add soft textures

Be inspired by the Danish concept of hygge and bring a quality of comfort, cosiness and wellbeing into your interiors. “Designers and stylists create interest and warmth by layering different textures,” says Gould. “In winter, you can add soft textures to make your home feel comfier and to keep you physically warm, too. Add throws to beds and sofas, swap cushions for fluffier and more textured designs and for extra layers, add sheepskins and rugs.”

Make use of rugs

Cold floors can take the cosy out of winter. “Placing a plush, textured rug on timber, tiled or concrete floors instantly adds warmth underfoot,” says Gould. “It’s a good solution if you’re renting and, on a more practical front, it can cover gaps and prevent cold draughts.” Even better: rugs help absorb sound and make your space feel instantly more styled and snug. Look for wool blends or shag styles for that extra “ahh” factor when you step out of bed in the morning.

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