Photo by Spacejoy
Photo by Luisa Brimble.
Photo by Andrew George.
Winter is nesting time. Even if you’re wild about winter sports, you’ll still want someplace cozy where you can strip off your outer layers and rest up between outings. Between the short days and chilly breezes, the majority of us spend more time inside this time of year than we do during the other three seasons.
The difference between coziness and cabin fever can lie in having that inside space set up as a haven where you can nurture yourself, where you feel satisfaction and serenity. You’re obviously the only one who knows exactly what that means for you, and it works best if you pay attention to your own instincts and make your space uniquely yours. Don’t forget a functional, good-looking coatrack or hall tree and a nice absorbent doormat where you can shed your ice-encrusted gear and let it dry.
Pay attention to those moments when the thought, “Wouldn’t it be lovely to have a…” even if the thought is fleeting. Make notes. Look around the Internet for examples of whatever that particular thing may be; our advertisers’ websites are a great place to start, because you can follow up in person. You’re more likely to purchase the perfect rug, lamp, or blanket if you get to touch it first. And do prowl the vintage spots! You’ll find a wild assortment of choices, and any money you save this way can be put toward something that really needs to be bought new—or toward a nice evening out.
The difference between coziness and cabin fever can lie in having that inside space set up as a haven where you can nurture yourself.
It’s a good idea to start out with the biggest item you need, then choose other things that play nicely with it.It’s a good idea to start out with the biggest item you need, then choose other things that play nicely with it.
Here are some of our favorite tried-and-true tips for crafting a nifty nest. Enjoy the process. Take before-and-after photos. Throw a party, even if it’s just a couple of friends and a pizza, and show them your results. You might just inspire them to do some nest-building of their own, and the world needs as many comfy, serene people as we can muster.
furniture
It’s a good idea to start out with the biggest item you need, then choose other things that play nicely with it. If your old chair or couch has gotten sprung-out or flattish, consider swapping it out. We have some wonderful sources around here.
Pro tip: Being able to put your feet up in some way is a beautiful thing in
Surround yourself with lamps you love, especially near your favorite reading or crafting spot.
winter. So is having the perfect side table, perhaps with drawers or a cabinet to help you keep your incidental items organized.
Photo by Minh Pham.
art
Photo by Spacejoy.
Here too, if your walls need a refresh, pick out a major piece you love first. It’ll set a tone. Things don’t necessarily need to match, mind you, but once you start creating the vibe you want, you’ll know if a smaller item fits in or fights with it. Look for art or sculpture that draws your eye, that you can gaze at and into with pleasure. Masterful artists (and we do have plenty of those around here) know how to create a feeling of depth even on a canvas.
lighting
Photo by Karolina Grabowska.
Surround yourself lamps you love, especially near your favorite reading or crafting spot. Consider full-spectrum LEDs, good for your eyes and your mood alike. Supplement with candles that look and smell fabulous.
fabrics
Photo by Jordan Bigelow.
You’ll want a cozy throw near at hand. Will yours be nubbly wool, quilted and puffy, velvety? Consider seeking out the perfect pillows to go with it—with more than one, you can recline in all sorts of ways. Beyond that, are you overdue for a bedroom-transforming comforter or duvet cover, or a new set of fluffy towels? A woven wall hanging can also do wonders for a space, either as a focal point or a complement to your major artwork. And don’t forget the possibilities for window treatments. Pretty thermal curtains can save on heating bills in the dark of the evening and frame the beautiful outdoors for you when the sun is high.
ceramics
Photo by Toa Heftiba.
There are so many joys to having good pottery or stoneware in your life, starting with solid cups, bowls, and plates that will keep food and drink nice and toasty and feel good in your hand. Beautiful candle holders, vases for dried arrangements, pots for live plants (do treat yourself to something living and green!), incense burners and potpourri holders, coasters…the right ceramic pieces add warmth and dimension to any space.
