During this time of year, I often hear people talk about how they don’t want to put away their Christmas decor because the house feels so empty after it is all packed up. But at some point in the beginning of January (or end of December) we pull out the totes and box up the Christmas decor. And then what is left?
A home that suddenly feels more spacious. Some even think the space looks too empty. The extra lighting that gave your home a warm glow in the evening is gone. The extra layers brought in through garland, Christmas pillows and more are removed. And while it can feel good to have the extra space, and the openness can be a big motivation for helping you purge and organize more in your home, it can also feel cold. Especially during the long dark hours of a winter evening.
Thankfully there are a lot of options to warm up your home, aside from turning up the thermostat. Which is perfect for those who don’t love the winter, the dark and the cold. Making a few changes can flip the atmosphere in your home and help you create a space that makes you want to settle in and rest for a while. Today let’s look at one of the easiest ways to change up your home and create a space you want to settle into and rest.
When your home feels cold and sterile the quickest way to bring in that warm and cozy feeling is to add layers of fabric to your space. Blankets, rugs, pillows, and curtains all help create that feeling of warmth and security that everyone loves to feel inside their home.
But not just any pillows or throw blankets. The pale yellow pillows with flowers on them might not give you that warm and cozy feeling you long for in the winter. Instead, let’s look for pillows and blankets that offer the “cozy up here” vibes. Below are five tips for adding textiles to your home in the winter season and some of our top picks for blankets, pillows and more.
1. Bring in as many throw blankets as possible! Leave one or two draped on the couch, roll them up and place them in a basket, or find an open shelf to stack the extra blankets.
Tip: The coziest blankets are often knit blankets or those made with fleece or faux fur.
These are some of our top picks for cozy blankets. They are heavy, warm, and make you want to curl up on the couch. (Click on any image to be taken directly to the store where the item is found.)
2. Add extra pillows wherever possible. The couch, chair, bed, entranceway bench. Anywhere you can sneak in a pillow or two, go for it.
Tip: Look for soft, plush pillows. Velour and faux fur pillows are great for the winter season.
These pillows bring in deep colors, warmth, and provide the perfect place to rest your head when relaxing in the evening.
3. Bring in a rug to keep your feet warm when the floors are cold.
Tip: A rug with a longer pile (think shaggy) will up the cozy feeling.
These rugs warm up the space and will be comfortable for kids who love playing on the floor.
4. Adding curtains, or swapping out for new fabrics, make the room feel soft and cozy. And their ability to help keep the cold air from seeping into the home makes them practical during the winter season.
Tip: Look for curtains that are made with linen or cotton, and also have a lining behind them, to give them extra weight.
These curtains keep things fresh and modern and bring the cozy factor.
5. Add an extra blanket to your bed for the coldest months of the year.
Tip: A knit blanket added between the sheets and duvet will add weight and warmth.
While we may be struggling with a home that feels empty after the Christmas season, these five tips for cozying up a space work in any season and any climate. Because in reality, who doesn’t want to walk into the door at the end of a long day and immediately feel safe, comfortable and cozy all year long?
What do you think of when you picture a cozy home in your mind? I’d love for you to share your thoughts with us in the comments. And if you aren’t sure what home design style speaks to you, head over here to snag our free guide showing you four popular design styles. One of them (or a combination!) may be exactly what you love and now you will know how to describe and shop for your style.