During winter, the temperature drop and dark mornings can easily dampen your mood. However, there are many ways you can fight the winter blues, including making some design changes to your house. Since everybody will probably be spending this season indoors due to lockdown restrictions, it’s more beneficial than ever to ensure your home sparks joy.
You don’t need to undergo a huge renovation to create a comforting ambience as you can make a big difference to your interior design with just a few simple adjustments.
1) Lighting hacks
The miniscule amount of daylight during winter is a significant cause of seasonal affective disorder. Make the most of the natural light we do have by opening your curtains during the day and hanging up mirrors to reflect the light around the room.
When the night sky emerges, use artificial lighting like lamps and fairy lights to creating a cosy ambience.
2) Striking artwork
Bare walls can feel uninviting, which isn’t likely going to help boost your mood. Filling the space with unique artwork can help you feel creative, inspired, and energised. Displayingpieces that you love and reflect your personality will also help create a positive and homey vibe.
You can peruse art from your sofa on online art galleries, such as Bleur Art, which showcases impressive artwork from a variety of independent artists. With a selection of diverse pieces including portraiture, figurative sculptures, and illustrative embroidery, there is something for every preference.
3) Soft furnishings
There’s nothing more comforting than snuggling up at homeas rain taps against the windows, so stock up on fluffy blankets and cushions for maximum cosiness. If you have hardwood flooring, invest in a soft rug, so you don’t have to brave walking across the cold floor to get to your morning coffee. Also, ensure your curtains are thick enough to retain heat.
4) Colourful accessories
When choosing your colour scheme consider the psychological effect it can have to help you emit a particular mood in the room.• Blue is associated with calmness, but light tone blues can make a room feel cold. Instead, opt for rich and deep hues. • Warm colours, (e.g. orange, red, and brown) can help a space feel cosier. • Green can evoke positivity due to the association with nature. • Yellow is a cheerful and energising colour that looks great year-round, despite being mostly associated with summer.
You don’t need to re-paint the walls to add pops of colour into your home, as you can incorporate the shades with accessories such as rugs, curtains, cushion covers, and vases.
5) Bring nature in
When the miserable weather limits your time outdoors, you may begin to feel fatigued. However, house plants can help you feel connected to nature. Greenery has several therapeutic benefits as it can reduce stress levels and induce relaxation.
It’s believed that the monstera plant can balance energies and boost your mood. Displaying scenic photographs of nature can also encourage calming emotions.
Experiencing dips in your mood during winter is inevitable, but you can minimise the impact. Making these small changes to your home will help create a welcoming environment that you won’t want to leave.
