By Jennifer Riner of Zillow
Transforming the home for the winter goes beyond turning up
the thermostat. Design-savvy homeowners are wise to winterize their interiors and
create warm retreats to combat chilling exterior temperatures. And what better
place to start than the bedroom – an area demanding ultimate coziness?
Incorporate these five ideas for a comforting bedroom this
winter.
1. Soft Lighting
Lighting is a prime ambiance enhancer. Hang string lights
behind sheer curtains for a soft, subtle twinkle. Non-holiday string lights
work best in
eclectic
or
modern bedrooms –
the asymmetrical appearance fits more non-traditional designs. If the room is
traditional, consider a small chandelier for classic Parisian flair. Elevated
lighting provides widespread illumination to brighten all sides of the room
evenly.
2. Knitted Linens
Chunky fabrics like cable knit are usually reserved for
sweaters and scarves. However, blankets featuring braided patterns outfit bedrooms
fashionably as well. Incorporate thick fabrics via quilts, cushion covers and
throws – but stick with interchangeable accessories for easy seasonal removal.
Once winter passes, sweater-like materials might be too overwhelming for the
summer.
3. Textured Rugs
Forget slippers – hop out of bed and feel the warmth of a
faux fur throw rug. Plush rugs heat up hardwoods and short pile carpets that
otherwise feel cold. Sleek furnishings combined with rich, lush throw rugs
create a
contemporary,
warm space. Throw rugs are impermanent, and
homeowners in warmer climates like
Texas might consider swapping them for more weather-appropriate textiles when
warm weather reappears.
Accessories add visual interest to bland bedrooms, but also
act as convenient tools for keeping warm during the winter months. Incorporate
a fuzzy throw at the foot of the bed. The extra blanket appears chic but spreads
out to create an extra layer of warmth for chilly December mornings.
5. Molding and Trim
Modify traditional designs to create the same warm feeling
as bohemian or eclectic bedrooms. Consider adding molding and trim in the
bedroom for a more permanent, cottage-like vibe. Wall embellishments add
interest to otherwise bland walls, without framed pictures or tapestries. Opt
for classic white bead board instead of eccentric, bright paintings that might
detract from the bedroom’s soothing qualities. Pair white molding with robin’s
egg blue wall paint and traditional, plush furnishings for a classic,
comforting, coastal bedroom.
Alternating bedroom designs throughout the year keeps
interiors looking fresh, but creating warm interiors for the winter goes beyond
updating interiors to help keep homeowners content and cozy.
