Winter Comfort

We talk a lot about the seasons here.  Personally, I love change.  I know that may seem weird to some, but each change in the season, whether it is a change in the weather or a difference in light, signifies a transition.  I find inspiration in that.  It forces me to reflect, and inspires me to start new projects.

There is a reason that in the design world there are seasons as well.  Sometimes it can get overwhelming.  It often seems that a new season is emerging just as the last one is getting started.  Not all of us have the luxury of completely redecorating our homes every time the weather takes a turn, or a new design trend emerges.  But there are a few things that stick out in my mind as we settle into winter.

Winter makes me think of comfort.  While I just want to hibernate in a cave of coziness, that certainly is not a reality.  The following elements are what have inspired me in my home this chilly season.

Cozy Breakfast Nook

Now that the holidays are over, I am taking a little hiatus from entertaining.  Therefore, my dining room is getting a little break.  Instead, I intend on fully utilizing a smaller, more intimate space.  When the temperature starts to plummet, my favorite part of the day is enjoying my coffee tucked into a small cubby attached to my kitchen.  From here I can enjoy the fuzzy morning warmth before having to prepare for the day ahead of me.  On weekends, this time stretches into the day and the space is perfect for reading, writing, and crafting.

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Fabrics

It never fails that at the beginning of the cold weather season I am ready for a change in my wardrobe and embrace chunky layers, and by the time Spring rolls around I am ready to shed all that material.  But before that happens I surround myself with all the soft fabrics I can get my hands on.  This extends far beyond clothing.  Throw blankets are my favorite thing about winter.  There is nothing quite like curling up with a good book or movie, under a cozy blanket.  And if you do find yourself purchasing new furniture with your leftover holiday money, think plush velvet, a trend that I am a big fan of.

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Colors

The hues that surround us impact our life much more than we know.  Sometimes colors can be subtle, and other times they are bold.  My go-to color for winter is always white.  There is just something about the crispness that matches the mood.  But I also crave some brightness in the dull fall and winter landscapes.  With a shorter amount of daylight, I personally like to mix in some powerful pops of colors.  Magenta offers a rich luxurious feeling with a hint of warmer times to come.  I like to introduce these colors through pillows, table settings, and even bedroom décor.

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Many dread the approach of winter, the dark period, but I confront it head on with a warm welcome.  This is the perfect time for me to reset, think about my goals, and get started on some new projects before the busy Spring season is upon us.  With a few simple changes, this transition comes easily.  Snuggle up, get comfortable, and enjoy this time – it will be gone before you know it!