This is the season to prioritize comfort.  The evenings come early, and the morning air can be brutal.  Instead of just hunkering down, it’s the ideal time to celebrate home life with some extra attention to our well-being.  The Danish call this attitude Hygge, we call it the essence of home.

You can heighten the feeling of comfort in small ways or go big with a whole house refresh. Either way, here are some of our favorite ideas to up the cozy-factor this winter.

Natural Materials

Natural and authentic materials help us feel grounded. A stone fireplace, architectural beams, and natural wood tones are soothing.  Even accessories added to your kitchen counter or cocktail table will create a mood.  One of our favorite places for cozy touches is Summer Made in Lake Geneva.

Soft Furnishings

Simple additions go a long way to warm up a room.  Bulky knit throws, area rugs, toss pillows and overstuffed furniture all nurture the spirit. A good place to start your shopping for the Lake Geneva winter vibe is Paper Dolls Home Furnishings.

Warm Color & Texture

Natural colors tend to lean warmer and when combined with the texture of knotty wood paneling, the effect surrounds you in security.

Layering Pattern

Pattern fills a room,  and when layer upon layer is applied the comfort factor rises.  Upholstered headboards and lush layers of bedding compound the visual effect.

Quiet Moments

When everyone is forced to stay close to home, it pays off to have an at-home-retreat.  A quiet place where you can hang a do-not-disturb sign and enjoy a bath, sauna, or favorite chair with a good book.  You’ll love this list of book club favorites.

 

Fireplace Gatherings

Taking the chill off around the fireplace is a time honored tradition.  Arranging comfy furniture in a cluster around the hearth will facilitate warm and friendly conversations.

 

Inviting Spaces

Rooms that are pulled together are always more inviting.  Coordinated by color and designed with good circulation space, people will not hesitate to enter and put their feet up.

Scented Spaces

Engage all of the senses with a fragrance that will enhance memories.  Evergreen, bayberry, zesty orange, and cinnamon will keep you filled with warmth.

 

Embrace Friluftsliv – The Outdoor Extension of Hygge

 

Friluftsliv follows the Danish Hygge trends with the Norwegian cultural concept that promotes “free air life”.   Spending time outdoors during the winter season has been shown to improve physical and mental health and reduce stress.  Even if you’re not up for a long walk, a warm cup of cocoa on your screened porch will do wonders to reduce stress.

 

Daily Rituals

Relying on daily routine can give structure to otherwise endless days.  Light a candle, call a friend, have an afternoon tea  . . .   taking the time to tune into your sense of calm during the winter will provide a sense of balance throughout the season.

 

So, stopping fighting the urge to ward off winter and start working with it to enjoy the warmhearted memories you’re now creating.

 

 

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects.  Building a new home or remodeling can be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.

262-245-9030

 

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