Tips to Create a Welcoming Retreat

Winter is a season of coziness, but shorter days and chilly weather can sometimes leave our homes feeling a bit dreary. At Style at a Certain Age, we believe your living space should be a reflection of warmth, style, and comfort all year long. A few simple updates can transform your home into a welcoming retreat that brightens even the gloomiest winter day. Here are our favorite tips for refreshing your home decor this winter.

Embrace Layers of Warmth

Winter calls for extra layers—not just in your wardrobe but in your home decor too!

• Throw Blankets: Add plush throws in cozy textures like faux fur, chunky knit, or fleece to your living room and bedroom.

• Layered Rugs: Layer a smaller, textured rug over a larger neutral one to create depth and warmth.

• Seasonal Pillows: Swap out lighter pillows for ones in rich fabrics like velvet or wool. Choose patterns and colors that feel inviting, such as deep reds, emerald greens, or soft creams.

Brighten with Lighting

Good lighting can completely change the mood of a space, especially during the darker months.

Home Decor Pro Tip

Choose warm-toned bulbs to mimic the soft glow of natural light.

Create Cozy Corners

Designate a nook in your home as a cozy retreat.

Keep Your Home Decor Functional

Winter home decor should not only look good but also serve a purpose.

• Entryway Organization: Add a stylish basket for gloves and scarves and a boot tray to keep things tidy.

• Throws at Arm’s Reach: Keep blankets in decorative baskets near sofas and chairs for easy access.

• Seasonal Storage: Use clear bins or boxes to store holiday decor or seasonal items when not in use.

More Easy Home Decor Tips

Refresh Your Color Palette

Switching up your color scheme can refresh your space without a full redesign.

• Warm Neutrals: Add tones like caramel, taupe, and cream for a sophisticated and cozy feel.
• Pops of Color: Incorporate jewel tones like sapphire, ruby, or emerald through decor accents such as cushions, vases, or throws.
• Winter Whites: Brighten your space with soft whites paired with natural textures like wood or rattan.

Rearrange and Declutter

Sometimes all it takes to refresh your space is a bit of reorganization.

• Rearrange Furniture: Move seating closer to fireplaces or windows for a cozy and practical setup.
• Declutter Surfaces: Keep counters, coffee tables, and shelves clean by removing unnecessary items.
• Add Personal Touches: Display family photos, travel mementos, or sentimental decor pieces to make your home feel uniquely yours.

Closing Thoughts

A few simple updates can make your winter home feel brighter, warmer, and more inviting. By layering textures, incorporating thoughtful lighting, and embracing natural elements in your home decor, you’ll create a space that’s a joy to spend time in—even on the coldest days. Health and Wellness can go hand in hand with your home decor, check out Books, Tea & Style: The Perfect Trio for a Cozy and Chic Life.

About The Author

Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 66, 5’8, and size 8.