It feels like the summer was only just arriving on our doorstep, but already we are saying goodbye. Autumn has all but arrived, and winter is hot on its heels with the promise of chilly, dark evenings and festive spirit galore.
After a roasting summer, many of us are looking forward to the change of pace. But what of our homes? A new season begs for a new approach to our home décor, and the incredible homes of viral interior design influencers on Instagram have given many of us the itch to get redecorating. So, where should you start before winter arrives?
Small Changes for a Big Impact
Sometimes it’s the small changes that can make the biggest difference to your living spaces, and there are several little things you can do to bring that cosy, wintry spirit into your home. If you have hopes of more major home interventions, you may want to leave these little things for last and read on – but if you’re hoping for some quick ideas to transform your home, look no further.
Let’s start with the front door. Many of us forget that our front door is just as much a décor decision as it is a security decision! Numerous door designs might better reflect the season, but even a simple change like a new door knocker or a fresh coat of paint can work wonders.
For inside, little fixture changes can have a profound impact on your home’s vibe. For example, your wall outlets and light switches could all be swapped out for an alternative design; brass can bring the shine to your home, or distressed brass can add some rustic chic. Add soft blankets, fuzzy rugs, heavy curtains, and oversized pillows to any chilly areas of your home to keep it warm and cozy. A new furnace will also improve your heating efficiency and reliability. Research and understand the different types of furnaces to help you choose the right one. These changes make a huge difference in the coldest of months. Even changing your lampshades can have a major impact on the way light plays in your living spaces!
Creative Winter Storage Solutions
Making changes to your furniture will always make a massive difference to the feel of your home as a whole, but rather than focusing on the conventional changes – new sofa, new TV unit, and so on – why not devote some time to thinking about storage? With winter comes a new set of domestic needs, from proper storage of winter clothes to easy access to festive games and activities.
With this in mind, you might finally make the most of that awkward space under your stairs by installing some fitted wardrobes; they can hold your winter coats and scarves, and even provide an out-of-sight place to put your muddy winter boots.
An ottoman by the front door could also be a winning place to hide your boots or to keep your hats and gloves for ease of access when you leave. As for living spaces, new shelves can give your room a new lease of life – and the perfect platform for tinsel and mistletoe…
Complete Overhaul
While the little changes and additions are undoubtedly impactful, sometimes you just want to start fresh and make a statement. With the winter comes a completely new mood, and an opportunity for a completely new you – at least, in terms of interior design.
Some big changes can better befit the season, such as the installation of a wood-burning stove in your living room for that cosy, close warmth. Knocking walls through is ill-advised, especially when it comes to keeping the heat in; rather, adding a partition wall to create cosy rooms for curling up in could well be the transformation your home needs.
