New England Home
BI caught the flu this week, which wasn’t what I had planned. I had intended to wrap up the holidays, focus on nesting projects, and get blogging, but instead I spent several days in bed with a fever, chills and a persistent cough. It’s been a rough start to January. My whole family was under the weather, so there wasn’t even anyone around to look after me. Still, I’m slowly recovering and looking forward to getting back into home projects.
January can bring a winter slump—cold days, limited sunlight and low energy make it easy to feel stuck. I usually fight those blues by making the home cozier: adding layers of blankets and texture, rearranging seating to create a snug spot by the fire, and enjoying low-key puttering around the house.
I love nesting and settling in, so a quiet stretch at home actually appeals to me.
BHG
Now that I’m on the mend, I’m excited to plan smaller design updates for the year. We don’t have a major remodel on the horizon, so I’m concentrating on modest changes that make a home feel more personal, functional and comfortable. While my head is still a little foggy, I’ve been browsing online for ideas and inspiration.
BHG
I’m continually refining the difference between what looks great in photos and what I want to live with day to day. Sometimes they overlap perfectly, but other times a pristine, minimalist room that looks beautiful online would feel cold and impersonal in my home. I prefer spaces that feel alive—rooms with color, texture and items that reflect personality. For me, the way a house feels is just as important as how it looks.
Cozy Winter Bedroom
During winter I walk through each room and take note of what works and what doesn’t. When a space feels right, I’m content. When it feels off, I make a plan to improve it. There are many corners of my home I still want to tweak; progress is steady but gradual. With limited time and budget, I prioritize changes that will have the most impact. Sometimes replacing furniture is helpful, but often reimagining and repurposing what I already own yields the best results. This year I’m focused on creative reuse and a lot of organizing.
BHG
How has your first full week after the holidays been? Did you get snow, or have any unexpected setbacks? I hope you’ve stayed healthy—getting the flu is no fun. If plans were derailed this week, remember you can always take another run at them next week and find more success.
Serena Crawford Portfolio
House Beautiful
Southern Living House Plans, Historical Concepts
Do you enjoy winter nesting?
What are your favorite things about your winter home?
See my essentials for a cozy winter home in my guide on eBay.