There’s something about the start of a new year that always makes me want to refresh my home. A quiet reset. As we step into 2026, I find myself craving spaces that feel calm, collected and gently connected to nature.

With the Christmas décor well and truly packed away, my home always feels a little bare in January. Not empty exactly - just ready for an injection of life. This January, I’m leaning into timeless warmth, intentional layering and soft, tactile textures; small changes that make our spaces feel lived-in and comforting.

Below are a few ways I’m slowly refreshing my home for the year ahead.

Layering with Textiles

Textiles are one of the most versatile ways to change the feel of a room. Cushions, throws, rugs and even lampshades can instantly soften a space and add warmth as the seasons pass.

I’m drawn to textiles that feel cosy, rich and full of depth...think gentle pattern mixing, subtle fringing and fabrics that invite touch. Layering different textures, rather than matching everything perfectly, creates a relaxed, collected look that feels far more personal and welcoming.

Bringing the Outdoors In with Plants

Nothing refreshes a home quite like greenery. Plants add life, softness and a connection to the outdoors - something I crave year-round!

Herbs in aged terracotta pots on the kitchen windowsill, topiary dotted through living spaces, and houseplants styled in traditional water pots add an effortless, slightly organic feel and help soften our homes.

Embracing Natural Elements

Natural materials bring a sense of grounding to a home and work beautifully in both traditional and more modern spaces. Wood, rattan, sisal, stone, linen and even humble hessian all add warmth and texture without overwhelming a room.

Some of my favourite pieces are the most practical ones: large wooden chopping boards left on display, woven baskets used for storage, ceramic pots, textured vases or a simple jute runner rug. These everyday objects quietly layer interest while still feeling purposeful.

A Softer, Warmer Colour Palette

I’m leaning into warm, earthy neutrals — butterscotch, mocha mousse, burnt clay and desert grey. I love neutrals that add depth without dominating a space.

I’m always drawn to green, and you can see it throughout my home. Mid-tones like moss, artichoke and pistachio bring a sense of ease and balance.

Lately, I’m craving touches of contrast in optimistic accents...saffron, plum or ochre. Just enough to lift the space and add a little fun without disrupting the calm.

Collected Over Time, Chosen with Care

Most importantly, a home refresh isn’t about starting again, it’s about reconnecting with what you already love. Over time, we collect pieces that tell our story: art, books, ceramics, framed photographs, plates picked up on holidays or passed down through family.

Slowly and intentionally adding to this collection is what gives a home that collected, lived-in warmth.

As we settle into the year ahead, I’m choosing slow, thoughtful updates - ones that make my home feel calm, joyful and uniquely mine.