Hey there and a happy new year to you! If you are like me, you might be ready to say goodbye to the jingle bells and all that holiday glitter, and bring a bit of winter magic into your home. Winter decorating can be just as beautiful as your Christmas decor.
While we might not be ready to usher in spring, and it might feel like you are going through two extremes, a full house with layered decor to a pared back look and feel, the transition from Holiday and Christmas decor to winter decor does not have to be daunting.
I know what you’re thinking! How do I turn my space into a cozy winter wonderland, perfect for snuggling up with a hot cocoa. Here’s my little guide to winter decorating in a way that’s easy and totally you.
1. SELECT SOOTHING COLORS
As winter wraps the world in its snowy embrace, the stark contrast of bright blue skies against the rich greens of evergreen trees beckons us to the cozy comforts of our homes. This magical season is the perfect time to curl up with a good book, lose ourselves in movies, or dive into beloved hobbies. And what better way to enhance this warm, indoor retreat than with the right colors? Choosing calming hues for your home decor during these chilly months isn’t just about style; it’s about creating a sanctuary that resonates with winter’s quiet charm. As we move away from the holiday’s glitz and into winter’s soothing rhythm, these gentle, comforting tones invite a sense of peace and cosiness, making every moment indoors feel like a warm, heartfelt hug.
Shop our winter picks
2. GO FOR UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE
Christmas is loud and proud, but winter? She’s more low-key.
Think about swapping that flashy Christmas tree for something more minimalistic.Decorating with trees and greenery during the winter season can bring a sense of life and natural beauty into your home. Here are some great options that are popular for their aesthetic appeal and ability to thrive indoors during winter:
- Fiddle Leaf Fig: Known for its large, glossy leaves, the Fiddle Leaf Fig can be a stunning addition to any room. It needs bright, indirect light and can grow quite large, making it a statement piece.
- Norfolk Island Pine: Often used as a mini Christmas tree, this plant is perfect for winter decor. It has a lovely, soft, and layered look and thrives in cooler temperatures with bright, indirect light.
- Rubber Plant: With its dark green, shiny leaves, the Rubber Plant adds a touch of elegance to your winter decor. It’s also known for its air-purifying qualities and is fairly easy to care for.
- Snake Plant: This plant is extremely hardy and can survive in low light conditions and cooler temperatures. Its upright, sword-like leaves bring a modern feel to any space.
- Peace Lily: Although not a tree, the Peace Lily can add a soft, serene touch to your winter decor. It’s known for its dark green leaves and occasional white blooms, and it thrives in low to medium light.
- Pothos: This trailing vine is incredibly easy to care for and can add a touch of greenery to shelves or mantles. It can thrive in a variety of light conditions, including low light.
- Succulents and Cacti: These are great for adding greenery with minimal maintenance. They’re perfect for smaller spaces and can be grouped together for a varied display.
- Olive Tree: An olive tree can bring a Mediterranean feel to your home. They prefer bright light and have a unique, rustic appearance.
- Pine Boughs or Holly Branches: For a more traditional winter feel, consider using cut pine boughs or holly branches in vases or as part of a centerpiece. They bring a classic holiday feel and a lovely scent.
- Eucalyptus: This can be used in wreaths or garlands, or simply arranged in a vase. Eucalyptus has a beautiful color and a refreshing scent that’s perfect for winter.
3. BRING IN COZY TEXTURES
Winter is all about being cozy! Ditch the sparkly tinsel and bring in chunky knits, soft pillows, and fluffy rugs.How?
Start by draping chunky knit throws over your sofa or armchair. These knits are not only stylish but also provide the perfect companion for those chilly evenings. Their thick, woven texture adds a layer of warmth and comfort, ideal for snuggling up with a good book or a cup of hot cocoa.
Soft pillows are another essential. Scatter a mix of large and small pillows on your couch and bed. Opt for fabrics like velvet, fleece, or faux fur to enhance the sense of warmth and luxury. The softness of these materials invites you to relax and unwind, creating a perfect nook for lounging or daydreaming.
Fluffy rugs are a must-have for a cozy winter home. A plush rug underfoot not only warms your toes but also adds an element of comfort and elegance to your living space. Choose rugs in warm hues or with rich textures to bring a snug, inviting feel to any room.
4. SOFT LIGHTING IS KEY
Don’t pack away all those fairy lights. Keep the white or amber ones to wrap around your mirror or window. They’re like little stars that keep the warmth in, minus the Christmas bling.Their subtle glow offers a gentle reminder of the beauty of winter nights, casting a soft, comforting light that transforms your space into a cozy haven.When wrapped around a mirror, they create a reflective play of light that adds depth and warmth to the room. Draped over a window, they offer a charming view both inside and out, setting a whimsical scene that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your warm, snug home.
5. NATURE’s TOUCH
Winter is nature’s quiet time, and we can totally bring that vibe inside. Decorate with simple things like pine cones, bare branches, and some evergreen touches.Consider a clear vase filled with tall, bare branches placed in a corner of your living room or on a dining table. This simple arrangement becomes a statement piece, embodying the stark yet chic beauty of winter. Its unadorned form has a calming effect, reminiscent of a tranquil, frosty forest. Pine cones, whether scattered across a mantle or gathered in a rustic bowl, add a touch of organic texture and bring a little bit of winter’s wild charm into your space.
Adding some evergreen touches, like sprigs of pine or holly, can infuse color and life into your decor. These evergreen elements symbolize endurance and vitality amidst the coldest months. They serve as a gentle reminder of nature’s ongoing cycle and resilience, even in times of rest.
6. SET THE MOOD WITH SCENTS
The smell of winter is just as important. We’re moving from cinnamon and pine to something more subtle like vanilla, sandalwood, or a cosy musk. Imagine scented candles or a simmer pot making your place smell like a winter hug.
7. MAKE YOUR FIREPLACE THE STAR
If you’ve got a fireplace, let’s make it the heart of your home. Create a cozy setup around it, even if it’s just for show. Stack up some logs, light a fire, and let the warmth spread.
Switching from Christmas to winter decor is really about creating a space where you can relax and feel at peace. It’s about those quiet moments and making your home a snug retreat. With these easy changes, your home will feel like a warm embrace, ready for those long winter nights.
Stay cosy, my friend! Let’s make this winter the snuggliest one yet!
