(NC) One of the best things about winter is coming inside from the frigid weather to a cozy and welcoming environment. To make your home a space where you’ll want to hibernate all season long, check out these tips.

Add layers of lighting. Our winters can be long and cold, so take steps to make sure your refuge is toasty warm and inviting. Swap out cool, white lightbulbs for warm ones and place plenty of light fixtures at various heights throughout your home. Think reading lamps, wall sconces and pendant lights. If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s clean and safe to use for natural lighting and warmth. You can also pepper your home with candles in comforting seasonal scents like fresh pine or cinnamon.

Create cozy nooks. Whether it’s in your bedroom, living room or study, set up spaces that make you want to curl up for a relaxing evening. Try making a little reading nook in your bay window where you can dive into a good read while pausing to watch the snow fall. If you love board games or puzzles, set up a dedicated table on the side of your living or family room, and you can leave them out so you can return whenever you like without worrying about tidying up.

Warm up with textiles. What’s better at this time of year than snuggling up with a fluffy pillow and blanket? Down isn’t just for the bed anymore, and there are lots of stylish (and Canadian) options that are a great addition to warm up any room in your household. For the most warmth and best insulation, choose high-quality down products that keep warmth in and cold out. Look for the Downmark label, which certifies a product is Canadian made and ethically sourced, an important feature for today’s savvy consumer.

(NC) Long nights and chilly weather activate our instincts to hunker down and nest at home. Get inspired to make your space relaxed and inviting and make the most of the season with these helpful tips and ideas.

For warmth. Is there anything better than curling up with a good book and comfy duvet as the snow falls gently outside? For a soft and warm cover, consider one with a down filling. Down is the warmest available; it’s a natural fill that has the ability to reloft and mould itself to your body for continuous warmth and comfort. It’s also great for your bedroom pillow and in a jacket for when you do decide to brave the cold.

Avoid buying down fibre, an inferior product that lacks insulation. To make sure you’re getting a quality product, look for the Downmark certification label, a globally recognized and trusted quality certification symbol for Canadian-made down and feather filled products. The label assures items are genuine and have been finished in Canada according to strict standards.

For décor. When looking for accent and decorative pieces, look for elements that evoke that cozy log cabin aesthetic. Think rich textures, plush neutrals and wooden accents. When layering a variety of throws, consider down and feather that will make the space feel warm and relaxed.. Add some winter whites with flowers and vases, and consider gold accents for a funky pop of colour that’s trendy and fresh.

For lighting. Fight the winter blues with plenty of lamps and candles. Create a comforting ambiance with a mix of overhead, floor and task lighting, which also gives you the flexibility to find the perfect brightness. Candles can add both warmth and light, giving your home a calm and lived-in feeling. Choose scented candles with your favourite aromas to remind you of yummy sweet treats or take you back to sunny summer day.

Curious about quality down and feather products? Learn more at downmark.org.

(NC) As the change in weather has us retreating indoors, take some time to spruce up your interiors with these design ideas.

Play with paint. One of the most budget-friendly ways to change up a space is with paint. You can use it to refresh antique or dated furniture, or you can create a whole new ambiance with a new wall colour. For the cooler months, try dark, nearly black walls to add depth to a room. Keep it warm and inviting with lighter furnishings and décor; the deep shade will accentuate their silhouettes for a striking finish.

Re-theme a room. Whether it’s your bedroom, kitchen or living room, switching up the style of a room can dramatically improve the overall look and feel. Try a new colour palette, or a different aesthetic like rustic, contemporary or cottage to create a renewed environment. For an affordable makeover, focus on smaller but impactful elements like textures, accents, furniture and décor.

Frame your view. Transform a boring basic window with gorgeous shades that do more than add style and polish. Hunter Douglas’ innovative custom window treatments offer light control for the perfect amount of natural sunlight, elegant performance fabrics for energy efficiency and UV protection, and intelligent shade operating systems for convenient smart home integration. Purposeful, polished window coverings give any room a finished look.

Organize chaos. Improving your home’s organization can make your entire living space feel fresh and welcoming. So take some time to clear out the clutter and use drawer and closet organizers to find an out-of-sight place for every trinket. If you have a small space, choose smart storage solutions that work double duty. And don’t forget your entryway. As the first impression of your home, it’s essential to keep neat and tidy. Use a coat rack and bench that doubles as shoe storage for an organized and seamless appearance.