With winter on the horizon, bringing frosty mornings and festive cheer, many feel inspired to make their homes feel cosy and welcoming. Preparing for the colder months and the Christmas season goes beyond decking the halls. It’s about creating a warm, comfortable space that’ll stand up to winter’s chill and the holiday hustle.
Start With a Seasonal Deep Clean
A clean home is the perfect canvas for winter décor.
Start by tackling those often-neglected spots – dusting light fixtures, cleaning windows, and scrubbing floors. Pay special attention to your windows; winter sunlight is softer, and clear windows can help make the most of this natural light.
Additionally, now is the time to get organised. Sort through holiday decorations, untangle string lights, and check for any needed replacements or repairs. If you have outdoor lights or decorations, ensure they’re in working order and that your extension cords are in good condition.
Warm up With Textiles and Layers
When winter hits, layers aren’t just for your wardrobe. Adding warm textiles can make your home feel cosier as it shields you from winter chills.
Choose wintery fabrics like wool, faux fur, and chunky knits. Drape blankets over sofas, chairs, and beds for easy access. Layer cushions in warm colours – think deep reds, greens, and neutral tones – alongside your regular pillows.
Solid wood or luxury tile flooring can feel chilly, so you’ll want to add rugs for warmth underfoot. Think plush, thick rugs, which not only feel luxurious, but also help insulate your home. Layering smaller rugs over larger ones is another trend that adds warmth as well as visual interest.
Use thermal curtains to block out drafts. These heavy-duty curtains can help lower heating costs too. Take it a step further by choosing ones in festive colours or with holiday-inspired patterns for a touch of Christmas.
Create a Welcoming Entryway
Your entryway sets the tone for guests, so make sure it’s both practical and inviting for the winter season. Start by placing a heavy-duty doormat outside to prevent mud and snow from entering your home. Inside, you could consider adding a boot tray or basket for wet shoes and a hook or rack for coats.
For a festive touch, hang a wreath on your door, and add a few twinkling lights around your entryway. This creates a warm welcome for guests, while keeping your space functional during the busy winter months.
Decorate for the Holidays
With your home cosy and winter-ready, it’s time to add a bit of holiday magic. When it comes to Christmas décor, start with a centrepiece like a Christmas tree or garland on the mantel. Choose ornaments and décor that reflect your personal style. Whether that’s classic red and green, rustic farmhouse, or minimalist gold and silver.
String lights are a simple, but effective way to add a festive glow. Drape them along windows, banisters, and mantels to create a warm ambience. If you want to go the extra mile, consider hanging some holiday-themed wall art or swapping out every day throw pillows with Christmas-themed ones.
Prepare for Guests
If you’re hosting family or friends over the holiday season, take some time to prepare your guest spaces. Ensure your guest room is warm and inviting with snug bedding, extra blankets, and maybe even a holiday-scented candle. A few small festive touches, like a miniature Christmas tree or a bowl of holiday chocolates, can make your guests feel wanted and respected.
For larger gatherings, make sure you’re stocked up on essentials like towels, soaps, and hanger. Prepare your kitchen for extra meal prep and consider setting up a hot drink station with tea, cocoa, and festive mugs for guests to help themselves.
Embrace Ambient Lighting
As daylight hours shorten, it’s important to create a warm and inviting glow inside. Swap out any harsh lighting for softer options. Use floor lamps, string lights, and candles to help you achieve that cosy, ambient effect. A fireplace is the ultimate addition, but even an electric or faux fireplace can bring warmth and charm to your space.
Consider placing string lights on bookshelves or weaving them into your holiday garlands to enhance the cosy, festive feel. A few carefully placed lanterns or hurricane candles can also do wonders in creating a welcoming glow.
Take Your Time to Enjoy Your Snug Space
Finally, remember to pause and enjoy the space you’ve created. Winter and the holiday season are times to slow down. To savour the warmth of your home and make memories with loved ones. From cosy movie nights to Christmas baking sessions, enjoy the magic or winter in a space that feels welcoming and festive.
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