When winter approaches, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of retreating into the warmth and comfort of your own home. The cold weather outside may be uninviting, but it doesn’t mean our homes have to be.
Making your home cozy for the winter can be a delightful process, not only does it provide you with a comforting retreat, but it also adds an element of charm and homeliness to your space. Here are 13 ways I make my home feel cozy in winter, and how you can do the same.
1. Layer Up with Blankets and Throws
Blankets and throws are not only functional for keeping warm, but they also add a soft, inviting touch to your home. Arrange them on sofas, chairs, or even on the floor for an impromptu seating area. You can choose blankets in warm colors like rust, burgundy, or mustard to add a pop of color to your space.
Materials like wool, chenille, or faux fur bring a sense of luxury and warmth. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different textures and patterns for a cozy, eclectic look. Chunky knit blankets are very popular and add a rustic charm to your space.
2. Light Up Candles
Candles add a sense of warmth and intimacy to a room. The soft, flickering light creates a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for winter. Choose scented candles to fill your home with comforting aromas like vanilla, cinnamon, or pine.
Candles can also serve as decoration. Choose different sizes and colors to create a visually appealing arrangement. You can place them on your coffee table, mantel, or windowsill. Remember to always be mindful of safety when burning candles, never leave them unattended.
3. Use Warm, Earthy Colors
Colors can greatly influence the mood of a room. Warm colors like reds, oranges, and yellows make a space feel cozy and inviting. Consider adding these colors to your home through throw pillows, rugs, or wall art.
Earthy tones like browns and greens can also create a cozy atmosphere. These colors mimic the natural world and can help to bring a sense of calm and tranquility to your space. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different colors to create a palette that feels warm and inviting.
4. Invest in a Quality Rug
A quality rug can make a big difference in the feeling of a room. Not only does it warm up a space visually, but it also provides insulation against cold floors. Choose a rug with a thick pile for maximum warmth and comfort.
Consider the size and shape of your room when choosing a rug. A large rug can help to define a space and create a sense of intimacy. The color and pattern of the rug can also add interest and depth to your room.
5. Display Family Photos
Displaying family photos can make your home feel cozy and personal. Choose frames that complement your decor and arrange them in a way that tells a story. You could create a gallery wall, or place them on shelves or side tables.
Photos can be a great conversation starter, and they remind us of happy times. They can be a comforting presence in the winter months, when we may not be able to see our loved ones as often as we’d like.
6. Use Fairy Lights
Fairy lights are not just for Christmas. They can create a magical, cozy atmosphere when draped over a bookshelf, around a mirror, or along a mantelpiece. Choose lights with a warm glow for a soft, inviting light.
Fairy lights can be used in any room of the house. They can add a bit of sparkle to a bedroom, make a bathroom feel more luxurious, or create a cozy reading nook in a living room.
7. Make Use of Textures
Textures play a big part in creating a cozy atmosphere. Chunky knits, soft faux fur, and plush velvet can all add depth and warmth to a room. Mix and match different textures for a layered, cozy look.
You can add texture through throw pillows, blankets, rugs, and curtains. Even smaller details like a knitted tea cozy or a textured lampshade can make a difference.
8. Add Greenery
Plants can bring life and warmth to a room, even in the middle of winter. Choose plants that thrive in low light and cooler temperatures, like snake plants or pothos.
Not only do plants add a pop of color, but they also help to purify the air. Place them on shelves, windowsills, or use hanging planters to add greenery at different heights.
9. Create a Cozy Reading Nook
A cozy reading nook is a perfect addition to a winter home. All you need is a comfortable chair, good lighting, and a place to keep your books. Add a soft blanket and a cushion for maximum comfort.
A reading nook can be created in a quiet corner of a room, or you could transform an underused space like a landing or hallway. It’s the perfect place to retreat with a good book on a cold winter’s day.
10. Use Warm Lighting
Lighting plays a big part in creating a cozy atmosphere. Avoid harsh, bright lights and opt for softer, warmer lighting. Table lamps and floor lamps can create a soft, inviting glow.
Consider using dimmer switches so you can adjust the light to suit your mood. And don’t forget about natural light – on sunny winter days, open your curtains and let the sunlight in.
11. Display Books
Books can add a cozy, intellectual feel to a room. Display them on shelves, or stack them on a coffee table. Choose hardbacks with beautiful covers, or books that have sentimental value.
Books can also serve as decoration. Arrange them by color for a visually pleasing display, or stack them vertically and horizontally for a more eclectic look.
12. Hang Artwork
Artwork can add warmth and personality to a room. Choose pieces that resonate with you, whether they’re paintings, prints, or photographs.
Hang your artwork at eye level for maximum impact. And remember, art doesn’t have to be expensive – even a simple poster can make a big difference to a room.
13. Keep it Clean and Tidy
A clean and tidy home feels more inviting and cozy. Take the time to declutter and organize your space, and it will feel more peaceful and welcoming.
Remember, a cozy home is one that feels lived in. So don’t worry about making everything perfect – just focus on creating a space that feels warm and inviting.