Welcome to "Twixmas." That weird, wonderful time between Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve where nobody knows what day it is, cheese is a food group, and the only scheduled activity is watching movies.
Whether it’s The Holiday, Elf, or Die Hard (yes, it is a Christmas movie), the movie marathon is a sacred tradition. But you can’t do it properly if you are sitting upright on a stiff chair. You need to build a nest. Here is how to turn your living room into the ultimate home cinema.
The 'Floor Cushion' Expansion
The problem with Christmas is that there are often more people than sofa seats. Someone always ends up on the floor. But the floor doesn't have to be the cheap seat.
Create a dedicated "floor lounge" using large euro cushions or by taking the back cushions off the sofa (if they are removable). Layer them up to create a soft base. This is especially great for kids or teenagers who actually prefer sprawling out.
Bring the Duvet Downstairs
This is the golden rule of Twixmas: The duvet is allowed in the living room. In fact, it is encouraged.
Drag your heaviest winter duvet downstairs. There is something illicit and delightful about being under a duvet on the sofa at 2 pm. It transforms the space from a "living room" into a "slumber party." If you are worried about dog paws or chocolate stains on your white cover, slip an old cover on it or throw a large blanket over the top.
Blackout for the Matinee
If you are watching a movie in the middle of the day, glare is the enemy. You don't want the winter sun hitting the TV screen just as the romantic lead is about to propose.
This is where your blackout curtains earn their keep. Draw them fully. It plunges the room into cinema darkness, making the TV picture look crisp and vibrant. It also helps you lose track of time, which is the whole point of the holidays.
The 'Blanket Fort' for Adults
You need layers. The temperature drops when you are sitting still for two hours. Make sure every single person has their own throw. Sharing a blanket is romantic in theory, but in practice, it leads to cold toes and arguments.
Have a basket of rolled-up throws next to the sofa. Fleece is best for movie nights because it’s lightweight but incredibly warm. It’s the popcorn of the textile world—cheap, cheerful, and essential.
The Snack Buffer
Finally, protect your textiles. If you are eating Quality Street and mince pies in your nest, spills happen. Lay a runner or a tea towel over the ottoman or coffee table to catch crumbs.
So, get the pyjamas on (or don't, we don't judge), pull the duvet down, and press play. The outside world can wait until January.
