How to decorate your home for winter

Want to decorate your home for winter, but not with Christmas decorations? We’ve got you covered with a range of snug, winter décor ideas to help you stay warm until the spring.

From soft light solutions to keep your home bright and cosy to seasonal greenery and colour palettes to help you create a cohesive theme in your home, read on for this year’s top winter décor trends.

Cosy winter lighting

Adjusting to the dark winter evenings can be tough. That’s why having the right lighting in your home is crucial in creating a cosy winter haven.

Banish the winter blues with the following winter lighting hacks:

1. Swap out your white light bulbs with ones that have a soft, golden hue
2. Place fairy lights around your bedroom and living room to create a dreamy vibe
3. Use flickering candlelight to create an inviting atmosphere  
4. Install dimmable lights to adjust your central lights depending on the mood and time of day
5. If you have one, make the most of your fireplace by turning it into the centrepiece of your room. Fireplaces are great at creating a cosy glow

Low and layered lighting is the perfect way to create an intimate, comfortable atmosphere in your home, perfect for those dark and stormy winter nights. Thinking of investing in new lighting solutions this season? Speak to a local electrician to get some advice.

Add a touch of green

Though your holiday wreaths and garlands can stay up well past December 25^th, there are other types of greenery that can also help you tap into that winter décor.

Colourful flowers are much better suited to the summer and spring, but there are still plenty of plants you can decorate your home with in the winter. For example, why not opt for Christmas roses or clematis? Dried eucalyptus is another popular option, as dried eucalyptus sprigs work great on mantlepieces, entryways and on stair railings.

Use textures and patterns to warm up your spaces

Escape the cold weather by incorporating soft textures like chenille blankets, velvet pillows, and faux fur area rugs. These elements not only look inviting but also add a tactile warmth to your spaces. Create a cosy, sensory experience by:

• Draping chenille blankets over sofas, armchairs, or at the foot of your bed. The velvety softness of chenille adds a touch of luxury, making it the perfect accessory for cosy winter nights. Opt for colours that complement your overall décor, creating a harmonious blend of warmth and style.
• Incorporating velvet throw cushions to instantly elevate the comfort level of your seating areas. The smooth and plush texture of velvet not only invites you to sink into your favourite chair but also provides an elegant touch to your winter décor. Experiment with rich, deep hues like burgundy, forest green, or navy for a luxurious feel.
• Bringing a touch of opulence to your floors with faux fur area rugs. These rugs not only add an extra layer of insulation against cold floors but also introduce a sense of indulgence to your living spaces. Place them strategically in areas where you often walk barefoot, such as beside the bed or in front of the fireplace, to create a plush, comforting experience.
• Experimenting with layered textiles to create visual interest and depth. Combine knit throws, woven blankets, and faux fur accents for a layered effect that not only keeps you warm but also adds a sense of cosiness. Mix and match patterns like plaids and herringbone for a visually dynamic and inviting atmosphere.
• Updating your curtains or upholstery with winter-appropriate patterns. Rich textures like tweed or wool-blend fabrics can enhance the warmth of your space while adding a touch of sophistication. Opt for deep, muted colours or classic winter patterns like houndstooth or tartan to complement the seasonal theme.
• Introducing furniture with textured finishes to enhance the overall tactile experience of your spaces. Look for pieces with distressed wood, hammered metal, or woven details. Vintage or secondhand furniture with worn-in textures can bring character to your space, contributing to the cosy ambiance.

Incorporating these textures and patterns into your winter décor not only transforms your home into a tactile retreat but also creates a multi-sensory experience that invites you to relax and unwind.

Need help installing curtains or moving furniture? A local handyperson can help you out.

Winter vignettes: creating a cosy corner

As winter unfolds, creating small, curated vignettes within your home can bring a touch of seasonal charm to various spaces. A vignette is essentially a carefully arranged collection of objects, often with a common theme, that tell a story or evoke a particular mood. Here’s how you can use winter vignettes to infuse warmth and character into your living spaces:

1. Choose a theme: Pick a winter-inspired theme for your vignette, such as snowflakes, pinecones or candles
2. Choose a location: Identify a spot in your home where you would like to introduce a touch of winter. Vignettes are often found on tabletops, shelves, mantels and windowsills
3. Gather objects: Collect objects for your winter vignette, such as snowflake ornaments, figurines, or even framed prints. Try and aim for a mixture of textures and heights
4. Layer and arrange: Create depth and dimension by layering objects in your vignette. Place larger items at the back with smaller items sitting towards the front. Using a tray or decorative platter can help anchor your arrangement
5. Consider adding lighting: Battery-operated fairy lights, mini lanterns and flameless candles can help you create a cosy atmosphere
6. Integrate natural elements: Pinecones, sprigs of evergreen, small bundles of twigs and leaves can add a rustic and authentic touch to your vignette

Try and make sure your vignette matches your other winter décor and colour palette, so you can integrate it seamlessly into your home’s interior design.

Make the most of your fireplace

Incorporating your fireplace into your winter decor is a timeless and heart-warming way to embrace the season’s spirit. The flickering flames and comforting glow of your hearth create an inviting focal point, making your living spaces feel cosy.

Decorate the mantel with seasonal elements such as garlands, wreaths, or charming ornaments. This will highlight your fireplace’s role as a centrepiece. Candles, placed around the fireplace itself or arranged on the mantel, can add a soft, ambient light that complements the wintery ambiance.

Lastly, use the space around the fireplace to showcase plush blankets, festive stockings, or even a basket of firewood. Fireplaces are more than a source of warmth, they’re a cherished symbol of winter at its cosiest.

Does your fireplace need a bit of TLC? Find a local fireplace specialist to help you get your fireplace ready for the long winter ahead.

Set up a hot chocolate bar

Setting up a hot chocolate bar is a great way to infuse your home with winter warmth and create a cosy gathering spot for family and friends.

Choose a dedicated area, such as a kitchen counter or a stylish bar cart, to arrange your hot cocoa station. Start by selecting an assortment of hot chocolate mixes – both classic and unique flavours – to cater to various preferences.

Provide an array of toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and cinnamon sticks. Enhance the experience with decorative mugs, stirring spoons, and festive napkins. To add a touch of indulgence, include flavoured syrups such as vanilla or peppermint.

Lastly, display your hot chocolate bar essentials in decorative jars, canisters, and trays to create an aesthetically pleasing and accessible setup.

In conclusion, transforming your home into a winter haven involves a thoughtful combination of lighting, greenery, colour palettes, textures, and delightful touches like a hot chocolate station.

By incorporating these elements, you not only combat the winter blues but also create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages warmth and togetherness. From the gentle glow of strategically placed lights to the seasonal charm of winter vignettes and the comforting allure of a fireplace, each detail contributes to a harmonious blend of style and cosiness.

Need help getting everything just right this winter? A local tradesperson is here to help, simply post a job today to get started.