Winter is the time when we seek a warm and comforting home. Does that describe your home? Or is your abode closer to cold and austere? You can make small changes in your décor that will bring the warmth into your home and make your home a welcoming retreat at the end of a cold, gray day. Ready? Let's start!
- Rich colors. Add pillows and artwork with splashes of rich warm colors such as reds, oranges and gold.
- Plush fabrics. Use soft and plush fabrics in cushions and upholstery that you want to snuggle up in – velvets, mohair and chenille.
- Throw. Throw warm afghans, quilts or down throws over chairs and sofas to invite cuddling. The layering of fabrics adds richness and texture to the room.
- Spicy scents. Place candles with spicy scents around the home – vanilla or cinnamon evoke feelings of comfort. Place mirrors behind the candles to magnify the candle’s warmth and reflection. Candlelight always softens and warms a room.
- Layer rugs. Layer oriental or kilim rugs on the floor to add texture, dimension and elegance.
- Rich drapes. Add rich drapes to create a “cocoon” of warmth in the room but make sure you leave them open during the day.
- Fireside. If you have a fireplace, move your sofa and chairs closer to maximize the warmth and intimacy it gives the room.
- Extra lighting. To combat the added gloom of winter, add extra lamps with warm incandescent light bulbs. Use lamps instead of overhead lighting for a more intimate ambiance.
- Golden. Use more gold, brass and copper in accessories. You can even change the hardware on furniture and cabinets to add an extra spark!
- Looking ahead. Be sure to keep arrangements of fresh flowers to remind yourself that spring is around the corner!
- Cozy corner. Make a cozy reading corner with a comfortable, over-stuffed chair, table and lamp. Curling up in a cozy corner with a good book is one of the best things about winter!
- Get together. Arrange furniture in groups for easy conversation. A small table and a couple of chairs or footstools will encourage people to gather together.
Adding warmth to your home can be accomplished easily and with only a few dollars. But the best way to make your home warm and comforting?
13. Bake a pie or cookies and share them with your family and neighbors. Allow smiles and laughter to make your home warm and comforting. What better way to chase away the winter blahs!
