Seven Design Strategies to Keep the Winter Blues at Bay
Published: January 19th, 2016
“In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan, earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone.” Christina Rossetti, approx. 1871
It’s easy to succumb to the Winter Blues when the holiday sparkle gives way to the grim grays of January and February. Here’s a solution: Create a sensual feast to chase those blues away. Here are 7 great design-based strategies that work:
Warm it up – Replace those holiday candles in your home with new ones, perhaps with unusual colors, and USE them. Even in the daytime, nothing warms a gray day more than candlelight. Long winter nights become cozy with candles too, especially when accompanied by one of your favorite Pandora stations or musical mixes. Scented candles scattered around the home also add a layer of comfort. And if you want to add some emotional warmth to your home, create a wall of old family photos to remind you of those special people in your life.
Color it up – Simple splashes of color lift spirits. Fresh flowers in brilliant hues will bring delight to a room and a hopeful note of Spring. Check out this colorful arrangement, courtesy of Jan Channon Flowers.
How about some rich new throw pillows or a colorful sofa throw? These are some of our favorites:
Mix it up – Some of my clients refresh their home by adding new art or just repositioning existing art. While you’re at it, re-imagine where objets d’art and your favorite “chachkes” belong. Put some objects away and bring out the ones you forgot you even had. These are all great ways to revisit old friends and appreciate something you’ve neglected or taken for granted.
Straighten it up – Bringing order to a home gives a great lift. Toss the old junk mail and magazines. Clean out and re-think the pantry. Clean out a few drawers. Simple steps like these create a sense of calm.
Change it up – Introducing some new design element adds excitement during the winter months. Re-upholster that old chair for a fresh look. Slipcover your sofa for a seasonal change, and don’t forget to flip the cushions while you’re at it. Get some new bed linens in bold or atypical colors. Check out these great new ones we found:
Add some sparkle – Sometimes, we can find among our family heirlooms a tarnished silver piece that, with a little bit of polish, looks great on a table or bookshelf. Find those old silver candlesticks you put aside, make them shine and set them out in a prominent place. Polish your grandmother’s silverware and bring out the crystal for a classy dinner with friends that makes everyone feel special.
“Make no little plans”– Planning some major changes or wanting to complete a couple of rooms? Winter is the best time to get started. Call the designer, figure out a budget, and get the ball rolling. And if there’s a move in your future, start now to envision what you love and where and how you want to live. Planning instills confidence and hope, and that burst of growth and activity called Spring is just a few short weeks away!