Easy Decor Tips to Make Your Home
Feel Like a Winter Retreat
Incorporate Warm Lighting
Warm lighting makes living areas feel welcoming. "Soft white" bulbs in the 2700 to 3000 Kelvin range are generally good choices for this kind of effect. (The color temperature of bulbs is measured in Kelvins.)
Tip: Adding string lights is a quick way to create a festive feel. Many versions allow you to change the lighting from cool to warm using just a remote.
Use a Diffuser for Seasonal Essential Oils
Walking into a home and smelling the winter baking scents of vanilla or cloves creates an immediate feeling of comfort. An easy way to achieve this even if you're not in the kitchen is to use a diffuser and essential oils.
This attractive option on Amazon has seven different LED colors and can be operated in "light only" or "diffuser only" modes as well.
Layer Richly Textured Throws and Pillows
Textured throw blankets and pillows create a luxurious feel while adding visual interest at the same time. Fortunately, it's easy to create this inviting look without adding an entirely new collection of pillows.
If you search a shopping site for "faux fur" decor, a large selection of pillow covers and throw blankets will typically show up.
Add Plush Area Rugs
Plush rugs give people a feeling of comfort and protection from harsh elements. Look for rugs with heavier pile during the cool weather season, whether it's sheepskin, faux fur, or something with a heavy knit to warm up hard flooring surfaces.
Decorate with Warm Metallics
Even if your home doesn't currently have a warm metal motif, you can pick up some temporary decor in copper, bronze, or rose gold to create that feel during the winter season.
Bring Natural Decor Inside
Natural accents such as pine cones, colorful berries, and evergreen branches create a refreshing feeling of comfort. In homes that have a modern style, the contrast of rustic elements such as weathered wood and stone is often very appealing.
Reverse the Ceiling Fans
Most ceiling fans have a switch that allows you to change the direction of the blades. This reverses the flow of air and directs warm air down from the ceiling, helping to keep your home cozy and comfortable.
Use Flameless Candles
Battery-powered candles come in a wide variety of styles and are an easy way to create warm, soft lighting without the hassle of real candles.
Many sets can be operated by remote control, like these flameless candles on Amazon that also have embedded string lights.
Cozy Up to an Electric Fireplace
Screenshot courtesy of Amazon.com.
For rooms that don't already have a fireplace, a free-standing electric fireplace can help keep those areas cozy and warm. A style like the one pictured above on Amazon is a great way to add a fireplace feel to a space that might not otherwise be able to have one.
Helpful Tips to Make Guests Comfortable
Make the Wi-Fi Passcode Easy to Find
Write the Wi-Fi passcode on two cards. Leave one in the main living area and one in the guest bedroom, so they don't have to track anyone down in the middle of the night to find it.
Create a Welcoming Breakfast Nook
It's always a delight for guests to wake up in the morning and find a delicious array of breakfast food and beverages laid out for them.
Tip: Choosing a variety of savory and sweet options is a good way to cover all the bases and make sure everyone is happy.
Have Crafts or Games Ready for Kids
(Quick Note: Links to some products are included for convenience and to provide examples. There may be better products and/or pricing at other online or brick-and-mortar retailers. None of these links are affiliate links.)
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