Making Things Cozy for Winter
Make your home comfortable and cozy for winter. There are little changes that anyone can do to create an invitingly warm environment.
Lighting
Lighting is the best way to change the look of things. Keep everything low, not just the wattage, but the height of the lamps as well. Low lighting softens the furnishings in a room the way make-up smooths the wrinkles. Pink light bulbs are an old trick for creating a glow in the bedroom. Makes everything look rosier, including people.
Camouflage
Replace small plants with one large plant or tree to make a dramatic statement. Use it to hide a corner of the room that isn't so pretty. If you have a paneled wall that you'd like to replace, cover it with wallpaper. Hang a large painting or group of art on the wall so they become the main attraction.
Warm Accessories
If you don't have the money to recover or replace an old sofa, throw a quilt or patchwork pillows on it for a comfortable country look. It does wonders toward making a favorite, but tired, piece even more comfortable.
Carpets
If an area of the carpet is worn, cover it with a small hooked rug. This will add charm, distraction and interest.
Familiar Surroundings
Cover an unattractive table with an antique lace table cover or pretty fabric and fill the table top with framed family photographs. A grouping like this is always comforting to look at and will make the room personal and warm.
Overdo A Good Thing
Most people feel best when surrounded by their cherished things. Take out all your favorite memorabilia and arrange it carefully around the rooms. It will give you pleasure and add comfort to the soul.
Rearrange Furniture
Change the arrangement for a different flow pattern. Create intimate groupings. Pile books on a table near a comfortable chair. When the weather turns warm you can create a looser arrangement with less clutter on tables. Fresh flowers and a coffee table book on gardens will perk up a tabletop.
Copyright Leslie Linsley, author
Reprinted with permission, HouseNet, Inc.