Add warmth to your cottage with decor

Now that the holidays are over, so is the warm glow of Christmas lights—unless you are like me and they stay up until summer occasionally. But, for those of you who feel embarrassment at lighting up your Christmas tree at the end of January, how do you continue to keep your cottage feeling warm for the long winter months? When decorating a cottage, it can be easy to get caught up decorating for summer only. However, by adding a few things here and there you can easily create a warmer, more winter-friendly vibe.

An easy and great seasonal plan can start with pillows and throws. In abundance, these make you feel like snuggling up on the sofa and staying there for a while. They can be switched out for cooler, fresh colours when spring arrives. For the winter months, try reds and oranges to heat things up. And a nice basket full of blankets adds pattern and warmth to any room where an extra layer is needed.

The same way layering helps keep people warm, layering in your house also works. For example, a window can sometimes feel stark or cold with just a blind. Consider adding curtain panels on the side to warm things up and add pattern or texture to a room. They also help with drafts!

Something as simple as adding a stack of good books, magazines (Cottage Life, of course!) and some candles can make a huge difference. And don't forget the things as simple as the light bulbs you choose. A lot of fluorescent bulbs can give off a cool light, whereas incandescent bulbs give off a yellow, warmer light. However, it is getting easier to find fluorescent bulbs in warmer tones now.

Try adding a rug to a space—it's much nicer to step onto than a cool floor. And once the warmer seasons arrive, roll it up and store it until the following winter.

A good tip for dressing to stay warm in the winter also applies to decorating: Layer, layer, layer! Just think how great it will feel to peel back all the layers in the Spring and de-clutter—but that's another topic.