January is a time of renewal & rest...


...and a time to freeze your buns off while the depression of deep winter slowly creeps in. 🙄😂


Okay, so maybe that's a little pessimistic, but it's not too far off for most of us who live in northern climes.


Because now that it's time to start thinking about putting every last Christmas decoration away, I'm feeling a little desperate to re-inject some cozy cheer into my home so I can fend off those winter blues...and I know I'm not the only one.


So here are a few quick & easy tips for adding cozy & warm vibes to your home this winter. May they bring a little cheer into your life, and remind you to savor the coziest time of year. It may not be as lovely as a Spring day or a Summer night, but winter has its own charms (like cozying up under a blanket with a book, sitting by the fire, or drinking hot cocoa) and it should be relished whenever possible.


Besides, the alternative is being a Scrooge, and that won't help you or your loved ones get through the snow and cold. 😂


So let's dive in!

Add An Accent Wall


Okay, so this isn't as overwhelming as it seems because if you choose a small or simple wall, you can get a project like this done in under an hour!


Adding a deep or warm tone by painting or wallpapering will add crazy amounts of charm and coziness to your decor, and is extremely cost effective.


Think: Tile, Paint, Murals, Wallpaper, Paneling, Shiplap, Picture Frame Molding


Here are some inspiration photos:

Rescue An Antique


Nothing adds charm and depth to a design like a vintage piece of furniture. From the wood tones to the ornate hardware that comes along with older furniture, you'll be feeling the coziness in no time.


Plus, you'll feel like a hero for rescuing a beautiful old piece of furniture!


Try your local Habitat for Humanity Restore first - they tend to have great deals on gently used pieces that will spruce up your space and give you all the feels.


And don't feel tied to the furniture's original purpose - a dresser can become a night stand, a dining table can become a desk (in fact my desk is a thrifted drop-leaf dining table that I refinished and I love it!) or a china cabinet can become office storage. Be creative!

Focus On Natural Textures


If you're going for cozy, then it's time to ditch the plastic, the polyester, and the paint for rich natural finishes like wood, woven baskets. ceramics, linen, brass, copper, stone, tile, and wool. You'll be amazed what a difference it makes!


This is another category I love to thrift for - I've found gorgeous pieces like brass candlesticks, copper vessels to plant houseplants in, old books to layer into my decor, and lots more. Some of my favorite pieces are from Goodwill! It's amazing what you can find there.


Think: brass vessels as vases, baskets, pottery, cotton throws, linen curtains, branches from outside, wooden cutting boards, leather accents

Add Some Brown!


Okay, I know it sounds nuts after we spent the last few decades eradicating brown from interior design in favor of black. white, and grey, but that's exactly why we miss it so much!!


Adding dark colors - especially neutrals - also anchor a space, and since most of us are getting sick of black, brown is a natural (pun intended) alternative.


Our minds seek out nature - we spent thousands of years living outside, and our brains haven't caught up with a sterile, indoor life. So if you want to create a rich, satisfying home, then consider adding brown back in! From the trees to the dirt and so much more, nature is always using brown tones, so why shouldn't we?


It can be in furniture, paint, accessories....wherever you want! Just be sure to sprinkle enough of it around so it feels cohesive.

Invest in Some Greenery


Bringing faux or real greenery into your home will cheer you up faster than anything else you do.


Our brains are wired to feel safe in a place where things can grow, so adding plants (even if they're fake) can trick your subconscious into chilling out!


So head to Home Goods, Amazon, Target, or TJ Maxx and snag some beautiful, realistic-looking plants, or work on your green thumb for even better results. You won't believe how much it can help cheer you up!

Happy Nesting!


I hope you loved these tips, and they bring you a little comfort and joy during these frigid months.


Design is powerful, and changing our environment can often change our thoughts, so spend a little time nesting this winter so that spring comes all the earlier. You'll be so glad you did.


Much Love,


Amy 😊