For the last month, as the snow has fallen and the hot chocolate has been poured, we’ve all gotten used to homes that just feel- full. Full of our favorite people, our favorite memories, and also full of décor. Tables that once sat empty now display our nativity scenes or lots of Christmas lights. Mantels have been decked with fresh garland and candles galore. Boxwood and evergreen wreaths hang in colorful ribbon over side tables, in front of windows, and on our doors. And the corners of all our living rooms display a dazzling array of lights and bulbs on our Christmas trees.

And then December 25^th comes in all its glory. One day wreaths and lights and stockings feel festive and cozy, but the next day we begin packing it all away. And when the lights are out, the Christmas tree down, and all the décor packaged up neatly for next December- well, it starts to feel quite a bit more empty.

It’s been a problem that many of our clients have been asking us about. How do we keep it comfortable and full- especially after the holidays? At a time when a cozy living room is most important- when the sun sets at 4pm and the snow is flying- we really need to create cozy vibes.

So often, the grand scale of our decorations are what bring in so much coziness. A 9’ Christmas tree is quickly missed in an empty corner. To solve this height problem, we brought in a vintage ladder and hung an assortment of textured cream and white blankets with a pop of amazing color. Not only does displaying blankets make your gathering room feel welcoming and cozy, but the added texture from all of the blankets will have you feeling just as cozy as your Christmas tree once did!

We also love wreaths quite a bit here at Bria Hammel Interiors. Although we don’t consider wreaths purely a Christmas decoration, often the live ones might start looking a bit sad come January! The color and texture that they bring to the walls is hard to replace, but a wintry piece of art in a simple frame does the trick quite well! We also love the idea of using vintage skis or snow shoes to give a crisp but rustic feel.

Another way to add fullness and a wintry feel is by filling your fireplace with firewood. The texture looks amazing and it adds the deep tones to a mantel that feels less lovely.

And you can never go wrong with mixing up your pillows! Choose a rich, deep color that contrasts. When the trees go bare and the snow is bright and simple, you can go extra bold with your color scheme inside. We went with burgundy, teal, and hints of brass and gold. To keep these royal colors casual, make sure to add natural tones like the birch logs, artichoke hearts, and natural wood finishes!

We hope as you’re packing your holidays away that you’ll feel inspired to decorate for winter. After all, you never spend quite as much time indoors as you do on chilly winter nights- make the most of them!