Easy tips for you to reset your home

By Stefanie Nemec

Creating a Cozy, Minimalist Winter Retreat for Your Home

After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, January is the perfect time for a reset (or February, if you’re like me and the tree has just come down!). As the decorations and the seasonal clutter are packed away, it feels good to create a serene, minimalist space that promotes rest and rejuvenation - a cozy environment that allows you to recharge during the colder months ahead. If you haven't packed away your holiday decor yet, now’s the time to take a moment and assess whether it’s time to let go of decorations that no longer serve your space. Focus on what you truly love, and keep only what sparks joy or enhances your home’s seasonal vibe.

As you begin to store away your holiday decor, use this time to evaluate what you want your home to feel like in the new year.

Creating a Calming, Winter-Inspired Minimalist Vibe

To create a calming, minimalist vibe, you’ll want to pack away anything overtly tied to the holiday season, like bright reds and greens, and symbols of Christmas or Hanukkah. Consider leaving out decor that evokes the feeling of winter—think dark and moody blues and greens, warm whites, and objects with inviting textures. For me, this means packing away anything too vibrant, but keeping decor that feels like the quiet beauty of a winter forest—trees in brass, shades of white, and cozy textures like wool and boucle.

Candleholders are one of my favorite ways to add warmth to your space without relying on holiday-specific decor.

Marble, Brass, and Earthy Candle Decor

Use simple marble, brass or wood candlesticks, and swap out those red and green candles for something that feels more aligned with winter —white, green, or even brown. Yes, brown! Rich browns and beiges are making a comeback, offering a warm, earthy contrast to the cooler tones of winter. These hues are reminiscent of a log cabin retreat in the woods. There’s nothing more comforting than sipping your coffee (or wine) by candlelight, underneath a thick blanket.  Pair your candles with vintage or antique vessels in amber, green, or brown glass to add dimension and interest to your shelves and tables. 

Ambient Lighting and Winter-Inspired Art

Ambient lighting is also a must for creating a cozy winter atmosphere. Adding table lamps, wall sconces, or wireless lamps to your bookshelves can make all the difference. Layered lighting creates a warm, inviting glow, perfect for those long winter evenings. And don’t forget your local thrift and antique stores for winter-inspired art. A great piece of artwork can transform a room and elevate the entire vibe of your space. Whether you’re swapping out art on the mantle, walls or bookshelves, winter-themed artwork can add that final touch of seasonal coziness.

Brighter colors

Once the days start to get longer and warmer, that’s when I like to reintroduce pops of brighter colors. A touch of yellow, turquoise or bold jewel tones can signal the shift toward spring, while still maintaining a sense of warmth and comfort. But for now, embrace the simplicity and beauty of winter—clear the clutter, cozy up with soft textures, and let your home become a sanctuary for quiet moments and relaxation as we embrace the new year ahead.

Happy decorating and enjoy your cozy winter retreat!

*All Photographs Credit: Stefanie Nemec

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