The climate at this time of year is different across the country and around the world, but if your hometown is like where I live, you’re finally starting to feel fall temperatures. The leaves are changing colors and starting to fall here, and today is downright cold. I still want to be able to enjoy the outdoors, and do so comfortably—that is, warmly.
It has been on my project punch list for YEARS, and I finally did it: I got an outdoor heater, so that I can still enjoy reading on my patio, and not turn into a Popsicle while doing so. I have yet to try it out, but I’m hoping it extends the time I can use my outdoor space a little longer, by at least a month or so. And maybe the addition of a thick, wooly blanket could extend it even further…
So that got me thinking, what are some other ways that spaces can be modified for the seasons— to make the most of each area— throughout the year?
Decor
The most obvious tip for changing things up during the colder seasons, and the one that is all over the internet, is to switch out decor items. Whether it be for the fall and winter holidays, or to more subtly update your color schemes to go with the seasons. This could be swapping out pillows and blankets to warm neutrals like brown with pops of orange and gold in fall, and cooler toned blues and silvery grays for winter. Personally, I’d recommend keeping your color palette on the warmer side during the cold winter months to really amp up the hygge vibes! And using soft, luxurious textiles will make the setting even cozier as the temperatures drop.
Lighting
Another tip to up the warmth factor is to add string lights or even a table (or floor) lamp in an unlit corner, to add a warm glow to your spaces. Or even just swap out a warm white light bulb in an existing lamp if you currently use a more cool toned bulb.
To level up the cozy factor in the realm of lighting, put your lamps on timers so that they come on before you get home, and the glow will welcome you inside. It really makes such a cozy difference! I have two different types of timers for my lighting, a more manual version with two on/off timing cycles, and then the Govee Smart Plugs which I can create unlimited schedules for and also control with my phone at those times when they are not programmed to be on— I love these! Game changer!
Purpose
And finally, transform a space to accommodate a seasonal hobby or pastime. This could be on a large scale like rearranging some furniture to create a more conducive setup, or something smaller like my outdoor heater addition. Make a cozy nook for reading, or set up your coffee table or an often unused surface with a puzzle or a favorite craft. Lean into your favorite indoor winter activities by making an area dedicated to them for easy access and cleanup!
You can also create a space that promotes more social activities, like gathering with the important people in your life. The warmer months are more conducive to spending time outside or going on adventures with friends and family, but creating a warm and welcoming environment for indoor get togethers during the colder months is a great option.
You can change up your furniture placement to facilitate a game night or make it better for movie watching; you can add an electric fireplace (or make a fire if you have a real one); or you can clear off your dining table and make your chairs more cozy and comfy for extended sitting around a meal of comfort food and drink. All of these ideas can be a great way to create an inviting space for welcoming guests this time of year.
When fall transitions to winter and the cold months descend upon us, you’ll be grateful to have made these simple updates to your living spaces. It doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming to make these little tweaks, but the effect on your winter experience will be worth the cost. Brainstorm some activities you like to do during the colder times of year and see if you can change up any spaces to facilitate making them happen.
What changes do you make at this time of year to your home?
Photo by Shayna Douglas on Unsplash