TThe change of seasons is a perfect reason to refresh your home. With the holidays behind us and winter still stretching ahead, this is a great time to create a snug, warm sanctuary where you can feel cozy all season long.
We recently moved into a new house, so our bedroom is still in the “just moved in” stage. In January I’m excited to plan a thoughtful refresh—little changes that make the space feel more intentional and restful.
Even if you don’t have major projects planned, taking time this season to rest and daydream is nourishing. My upcoming book, A Lovely Life, talks about using winter as a season to rest and rejuvenate. I naturally spend more time in the bedroom during cold months: I love the kitchen and a warm fire, but I especially enjoy retreating to the bedroom to snuggle up and relax.
This month I’m joining a simple home challenge called A Lovely January—pick one room to make progress on. If you’re following along I’d love to hear what you do and see your results.
I chose our bedroom for the challenge.
Our main budget this year will go toward a kitchen remodel and an addition, but because the bedroom is my winter retreat I want to give it a cozy refresh. We’ll use the furnishings we already own: a versatile dresser, our cane bed, the painted bookcase we brought from our old house, a couple of lamps, mirrors, two built-in nightstands that came with the house, and an IKEA chair. Over time we may swap pieces that better fit the room’s size or storage needs, but for now these items will work well.
So what’s on the refresh list?
We took down our holiday garland, so the room is a clean slate to work with.
Lighting:
Lighting is a priority to make the room feel warm and inviting. We added a new brass floor lamp for reading in the chair, and we’ll keep a pretty floral lamp on the dresser. I’m considering replacing the existing ceiling fixture eventually to add personality, but that can wait. For now I’ll install plug-in wall sconces by the bed to free up nightstand space and add a soft glow. One additional lamp or sconce will help balance light around the room without spending a lot.
Mirror:
We already hung a mirror that reflects the view outside and helps the room feel larger and brighter. It’s a simple change that adds depth and light.
Bedding:
I love quilts and seasonal layers, and this winter I’m planning to refresh the bedding to create a cozy winter look. Mixing pillows, duvet covers and quilts lets you change the mood without replacing large furnishings. Since this is the main bed I’m using right now, I can have fun experimenting with textures, colors and layers.
Color Palette:
We considered repainting but decided to wait. The current paint (Bunny Gray by Benjamin Moore) is calming and complements the view of water and sky outside, so it serves as a soothing backdrop. For now I’ll focus on textiles and accessories to bring color and pattern into the room.
Slipcover:
The existing chair is comfortable, so rather than replace it I may update it with a slipcover to freshen its look and keep it functional until a different option feels right.
Bench:
We need a bench at the end of the bed to help our dogs get up and down safely. They’ve become morning snuggle companions, so a bench solves a practical need while fitting the cozy vibe.
Art:
Art will add personality and color. Right now we have a few pieces in place, but nothing permanent. I’ll keep an eye out for artwork that complements the season and the room’s palette and can be swapped over time.
Window Treatments:
Curtains will add softness and the option to darken the room for better sleep. Some windows have paper shades and others have no treatment, so I’ll plan curtain panels for a cozier feel and consider shutters for privacy on lower window sections.
Function:
Organization is needed in the bedroom and closet, so I’ll gather ideas and install systems to make daily routines easier and keep the space feeling calm.
Flooring:
My long-term plan is hardwood floors throughout the house. We may do them as part of a larger remodel or start upstairs first. Meanwhile, adding a throw rug near the door or chair will add warmth, color and pattern.
Dream List:
There are plenty of future ideas: wallpaper or wood accent walls, wood ceilings, crown molding, a fireplace—this room could evolve over many seasons, and I’m excited to work on it gradually.
This list gives me a clear starting point for the season. I’m not in a hurry; I’ll tackle what feels right and enjoy the progress. My January goal is to finish updated lighting and a cozy winter bedscape by month’s end.
UPDATE: We’ve made progress on the bedroom with three simple updates to create a winter sanctuary—check the blog for photos and details.
I also shared the lantern-style ceiling light we ordered and installed; it made a noticeable difference in the room’s character.
What are you working on this month? Share your plans, progress and ideas in our community or on social media with the hashtag #alovelyjanuary—I’d love to see your updates.