EMBRACE WINTER'S WARMTH AT HOME | THE PLAZA

The temperature has definitely dropped! All too soon we’re all moving from long, lazy evenings outside to cozy movie nights, heartier dishes, and more time on the couch.

The change of season always has me looking around my home and changing it up a little to suit shifting needs and moods. It’s a good time to consider what’s working, what items are a little worn and pass on items that I no longer love. Because, whether you’re driving home through the rain after a day at work or enjoying a lazy weekend afternoon binging Netflix with your favourite people, winter calls for cozy comfort.  Here are some of my favourite trends of the season and ways to bring them into your home.

It’s not just your wardrobe that gains layers as the weather turns, your home should too. The clean, simple lines of summer living are softened by the addition of throw rugs, cushions and other soft furnishings, instantly evoking feelings of warmth, comfort and welcome. Checks and plaids remain, bringing a welcome sense of familiar nostalgia with them along with embossed textiles. Mix and match soft fabrics like velvets, faux fur and knits to add depth and visual interest that is functional too. After all, is there anything cozier than curling up under a soft throw rug with a good book?

Rich, saturated colours return for the cooler months, instantly adding a sense of richness and luxury to your space. With jewel tones ranging from rich, warm browns to sumptuous plums and (my personal favourite) stunning, deep blues, there’s a choice for everyone here. Greens are everywhere, ranging from saturated emerald luxury to romantic neutral sage. You don’t need to rush out and paint the walls though; even if you’re on a budget (who isn’t right now, am I right?) or you’re building confidence with colour, small touches will transform your living spaces. In the bedroom, get that new season feeling with a fresh duvet cover or warm extra blanket draped across the foot of the bed.

Instead of pining for the endless days of summer, celebrate the longer evenings by swapping overhead lighting for the warmth and intimacy of task and accent lighting to instantly create a cozy atmosphere that you’ll love to live in. Incorporate a mix of overhead lighting, table lamps, floor lamps and even candles to provide soft, diffused light throughout your home.

In addition to light and ambience, candles will also have your home smelling delicious with cozy scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or cedarwood evoking feelings of warmth and comfort, making them a beautiful addition to your winter sanctuary. Follow safety instructions – or pick up diffusers or room sprays for fuss-free fragrance. Bring the outside in with indoor plants, adding visual interest, improving air quality and keeping you connected with nature.

I’ll be honest, I’m absolutely a fan of summer and I do miss her when she’s gone. But, with just a few small touches, I’ll be waiting for her return in comfort.