Decorating Your Home for Winter in Bethesda MD might not seem important until the temperature drops! I house sat one summer in Georgetown in a beautiful townhome filled with treasures and antiques. I was struck by how the home was decorated for summer: light colored linen slip covers hiding heavier fabrics on the armchairs and grass rugs rather than oriental rugs. With a few changes in textures and colors, the home seemed cooler. (I should explain that this person had probably started these seasonal changes in decor before the advent of air conditioning.) When the thermometer is showing temperatures in the 20s, suddenly the opposite becomes important. Anything that makes your home seem cozy is suddenly a great idea. Here are some winter decorating and design trends to make your home more inviting and warm during the colder months.
Warm and Textured Layers
Decorating your home for winter is easy if you start with snuggly layers of warmth like throws and rugs.
Chunky Knit Throws: Add oversized knit blankets or wool throws for a tactile and warm vibe.
Sheepskin Rugs: Use faux or real sheepskin rugs on floors, chairs, or beds for added comfort.
Layered Fabrics: Mix materials like velvet, wool, and flannel in pillows, curtains, and upholstery.
Switch to Earthy and Warm Colors for Decorating Your Home for Winter!
Deep Neutrals and Earth Tones: Incorporate colors like terracotta, ochre, and deep green to create a grounded feel.
Soft Whites and Creams: Pair warm whites with natural wood for a serene look.
Accent Colors: Add pops of deep burgundy, navy, or mustard.
Candlelight is Perfect for Decorating Your Home for Winter
When it is dark by 5 pm as it is right now, the glow of a candle in the window or warm Christmas lights just makes me feel warm all over. If you love decorating your home for winter, here are a few suggestions to spread that warmth when you need it most.
Candlelight: Place clusters of candles in varying heights on mantels, coffee tables, or window sills.
Fairy Lights: String fairy lights around mirrors, shelves, or across the ceiling for a soft glow.
Warm Bulbs: Use soft, warm-toned LED bulbs to create a golden, inviting atmosphere.
Hygge Inspired Spaces
Reading Nooks: Create a cozy corner with a chair, layered blankets, and a small table for books or aromatic tea – preferrably in front of a fireplace.
Soft Rugs: Use high-pile or shag rugs to keep feet warm and add a plush feel to living spaces.
Fireplace Focus: Decorate your fireplace mantle with seasonal items like pinecones, candles, and string lights.
New Slippers: Treat yourself to a new pair of slippers lined with something warm and snuggly. I like the Minntonka slippers with fleece or the LL Bean fleece slippers which are advertised as wicked good. (I just got a new pair this fall.)
Functional Warmth Is an Easy Step in Decorating Your Home for Winter
Throw Pillow Galore: Add extra pillows in a variety of textures and sizes for lounging.
Heated Throws or Pads: Incorporate electric throws to keep warm without sacrificing style. This is a huge success in our house from a few Christmases ago.
Draft Blockers: Use decorative draft blockers at windows and doors to maintain warmth and add charm.
Extra Socks: Is there any better time to add on some of those unmatched socks?
Winter Tablescapes
Adding some festive or seasonal touches to your table or countertops is easy decorating your home for winter.
Seasonal Centerpieces: Use a mix of pinecones, candles, and greenery for your dining table.
Textured Linens: Choose tablecloths or runners in heavy fabrics like linen or wool blends.
Rustic Dinnerware: Opt for ceramic or stoneware pieces in earthy tones – (or Spode Christmas tree china for the holidays!)
Sustainable and Minimilist Decor
I hesitate to suggest a minimilist approach to decor in the winter. To me, cozy means lots of pillows, blankets and such – but if that isn’t you, then here is the alternate approach to decor.
Recycled Materials: Use vintage or repurposed decor items to reduce waste.
Minimalist Approach: Keep decorations simple, focusing on key pieces that evoke a cozy atmosphere.
DIY Projects: Create your own wreaths, garlands, or ornaments for a personal touch.
Change Those Curtains!
Warm weather calls for light colors and light weight fabrics – and the winter makes me want to go heavy duty on the drapes and curtains.
Heavy Curtains: Replace light summer drapes with heavier fabrics like velvet or blackout curtains to keep out drafts and enhance the cozy feeling.
Double Layering: Use sheer curtains underneath heavy ones for flexibility and softness.
Decorating Your Home for Winter Means Light Those Candles!
Seasonal Candles: Use scents like cinnamon, cedarwood, or vanilla for a warm ambiance. Personally, I love changing from summer scents like lilac or rose to evergreen and cinnamon.
Simmer Pots: Create your own fragrant mix with orange peels, cloves, and cinnamon sticks simmering on the stove.
Essential Oils: Diffuse oils like frankincense, peppermint, or pine for a cozy, clean scent.
If You Want to Try Your Hand a Decorating Your Home for Winter in a New Location…..
As your trusted realtor, I’m here to help you find a new home to decorate. Let’s sit down and discuss what’s most important to you so we can find a home that truly fits your goals and lifestyle. If you want to do some peeking at what’s on the market now, just click here! Contact me today at 240-401-5577 or by email at lise@lisehowe.com to begin your journey!
