This archive report was first published on 8 July 2021.
With the cold season in full swing, temperatures in Nairobi and Nyeri have dropped to as low as 11 degrees Celsius, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department.
While some may opt for heaters, they can be an eyesore and dent your pocket with higher power bills. Instead, interior designer Lina Odero recommends using warm rugs, which retain heat better than other materials.
"The warmest material will be wool. It retains more heat," she says.
Another option is to invest in curtains with thick fabrics, which can help retain heat during the night. "During the day, when it is a bit warmer, the curtains would retain some heat which will help keep the house warm during the night when temperatures drop," Odero notes.
She also suggests using candles and warm colours to create a cozy atmosphere. "Candles give you a cosy warm feeling," she says. "Colours such as orange, red and yellow (also) give you a feeling of warmth. It is all in the mind."
When it comes to furniture, Odero advises against leather sofas, which lose heat quickly. Instead, opt for throw blankets and cushions made of wool to help retain heat.
Finally, she suggests arranging furniture to allow even distribution of heat. "If you have a sofa too close to the fireplace, it is advisable to move it further to allow the heat to spread more evenly in the house," she says.
