How to Make Your Home Cozy for Winter
Add Plush Area Rugs
Plush rugs give people the feeling of being comfortable and protected from harsh elements. Interior design experts suggest layering area rugs made of sheepskin, faux fur or something with a heavy knit over hard floor surfaces and underneath furniture such as coffee tables and beds.
Create Layers of Rich Texture
Textured throw blankets and pillows create a luxurious feel while adding visual interest at the same time. Replacing an entire set of pillows could lead to cost and storage questions, but fortunately it's easy to find pillow covers that fit the bill.
Just search a shopping site for "faux fur" decor and a large selection of pillow covers and throw blankets will typically show up, such as this collection on Amazon.
Trade Cool Lighting for a Warm Glow
Warm lighting goes hand in hand with the feeling of comfort, so it's worth making sure that the light bulb colors in your home are not too cool. (The color temperature of bulbs is measured in Kelvins.)
According to Cnet, "soft white" bulbs in the 2,700 to 3,000 Kelvin range are best for cozy areas such as living rooms and bedrooms. Smart LED bulbs such as these ones on Amazon are more expensive, but they allow you to change colors from cool to warm whenever you see fit.
Tip: Battery-powered candles offer another quick and safe way to provide soft accent lighting. Many sets come with a remote control.
Turn Off the Overhead Lights
Bright overhead lights in gathering areas can make people feel like they're under a spotlight. A great solution is to instead use table lamps, accent lights and uplights or downlights to create a casual environment that puts everyone at ease.
String lights or puck lights like these ones on Amazon are a quick and inexpensive way to add this type of lighting to any room. Floor uplights placed in corners and behind furniture do wonders to add warm energy to areas that would otherwise be dark and featureless.
Hang Something Round on the Walls
Rounded decor items make a room feel cozier immediately, according to Jemma Lane of Arbor Living. In addition to wall decor, the same concept applies to pillows, poofs and items on shelves.
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 feeling comfortable.
Incorporate Warm Metallics
Even if warm metals aren't part of your primary decorating theme, it's easy to pick up temporary pieces in copper or bronze that help create a warm seasonal feel during the cooler months.
The Spruce blog suggests buying copper pans at a second hand store and hanging them on the wall.
Use Natural Decor Materials
Weathered wood, stone and natural accents such as pine cones, colorful berries and evergreen branches add to a rustic feeling of comfort that often works well even in homes with a modern style.
Make a Snack Station for Guests
Everyone likes to know where they're supposed to go, especially when food lies at the destination. :) Having a snack and beverage station for visitors is a handy way to make people feel welcome and creates a gathering spot where they can easily connect with other guests.
| 
