Anne Chessin Designs
WWhen the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more inviting than being cozy indoors. I miss the sun sometimes, but I’m perfectly content staying home when it’s cold outside.
I’m especially drawn to the Hygge approach this season — cultivating warmth, comfort and appreciation for simple pleasures at home. If you’re craving that same feeling, these ideas can help you create a happier, cozier winter space.
A recent study from Sterling’s Best Places named the top three most Hygge cities in the U.S.:
1. Seattle
2. Portland
3. Minneapolis
No surprise: Seattle tops the list, and it’s where I live. I’ve lived in all three of these cities and I love the emphasis on homey comfort this time of year.
Five simple ways to make your winter home feel more Hygge:
Add Creature Comforts
Introduce soft textures and little conveniences that make home life feel luxurious. Lay a fluffy throw at the end of the bed, stock the pantry with ingredients for favorite winter soups and stews, and keep a stack of inspiring books and magazines by your favorite chair. If you have a fireplace, gather firewood in advance. Warmer window treatments, like shades or curtain panels, instantly soften a chilly room.
Simple Gatherings Book Video
Make Memories
When winter feels long, host a warm-beverage gathering for friends and family or create a personal coffee or tea ritual. Taking time to prepare and savor a hot drink — feeling the warmth in your hands — is a simple way to bring comfort and connection into cold days. Small rituals like these build meaningful memories.
Studio McGee
Pretty Puttering
Winter is perfect for gentle nesting and refreshing your surroundings. Start with a basic clean-up, then rearrange pillows, swap throws, update shelf displays and add fresh flowers or a few houseplants. Small shifts in arrangement can make rooms feel new without a big investment.
New England Home
Beat the Blues with Music
Music can lift the mood on gray winter days. A simple speaker, a smart display or even your phone can fill the house with uplifting tunes while you cook, clean or relax. Create a winter playlist that energizes you and makes routine tasks feel lighter.
Design a Scent-sational Home
We often focus on how a home looks, but how it smells affects comfort just as much. Candles are lovely, but to avoid adding toxins to indoor air, consider using essential oils in a diffuser. Bright citrus blends like lemon or peppermint are great for mornings, while orange or “joy” blends lift the mood. Lime and bergamot feel fresh for daytime, and cedarwood with lavender helps wind down in the evening for a restful night.
Atlanta Homes
Create a Cozy Atmosphere
Layered, soft lighting transforms a room. Turn off harsh overhead lights and rely on lamps, twinkle lights, candles or a fireplace to create a warm glow. Lighting that invites relaxation makes evenings feel restorative.
Related Posts:
The Winter House
10 Tips for Styling Large Living Rooms (and other awkward spaces)
Winter Bedrooms: Layers
10 Cozy Winter Kitchen Rituals (and part two)
Hygge and A Cozy Winter House