Happy 2010! The beginning of a fresh, new decade!

Happy New Year!

Wow! Am I glad that 2009 is over and 2010 has officially begun! Now that’s a change for me. I usually am not the person wishing away time or longing for the New Year however this year I was definitely ready for a change and with the New Year will come a change in scenery. Once the holiday décor is packed away, the house will need some added warmth as we snuggle down inside to wait out the cold winter months ahead. I typically start taking down my holiday décor on January 2nd. Tomorrow my game plan is to start with the formal living room and dining rooms. This is where I use the most traditional décor and lots of RED. Once that is packed away, the rooms will feel bare and a little lifeless. To add back that needed warmth, here are my top 4 tips I live by:
1. Add warmth by including darker, richer color. I like to add pillows and throws in colors like chocolate, evergreen or ruby. These colors complement my décor but deep shades of caramel, navy or plumb would be lovely at this time of year too!
2. Include cozy accents. I break out the handmade crocheted afghans that my Mother-in-law, Ann, has made me. Keeping them draped on the back of chairs or sofas make them handy when Old Man Winter brings a chill to the air. If your upholstery is springy or summery, try adding a slipcover in a darker shade to cozy up your space.

3. Cover your windows. I like to hang heavier window treatments during the winter months. The benefits are two-fold: 1) heavy weight fabrics help to insulate against winter’s cold temperatures and 2) adding color and pattern keeps the winter blahs at bay. Nothing is more depressing to me than bare trees and gray horizons!

4. Use greenery generously. After taking down my holiday wreaths, garlands and swags, I always feel that my home is naked. A few years ago, I started keeping evergreen wreaths and garlands (less the holiday glam and glitter) displayed through the end of February. Adding fresh touches of cedar, pinecones, natural holly and magnolia leaves gives a full, lush look that is perfect all winter long. Another fun trick is to add twigs of pepper berry in vases and pots throughout the house to punch up natural elements and add interesting color and texture.
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I hope to share some before and after pictures with you later this next week as I prepare my own home for the winter months ahead. What are some of the ways that you cozy up your nest after the holidays? Please share your best tips for adding stylish winter warmth!
Until I see you again,
Live Life Beautifully!
~Alisa