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Blue Monday, January 20th, is often referred to as the most depressing day of the year. To help combat those winter blues, we spoke with Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate, who shared his top tips for transforming your home into a cozy haven.
“It’s really important to prioritize a sense of well-being in the home, especially during these dark, winter months when many of us struggle with our mental health. Current trends like dopamine decor and color drenching are really the perfect antidote for the January blues,” says Eric.
Here are seven ways to uplift your space and mood this winter:
Curate Your Color Palette
Bright and bold colors can do wonders for your mood. Opt for warm, earthy shades like burnt orange and golden yellow to evoke feelings of warmth and comfort. Alternatively, jewel tones like deep plum and emerald green bring an element of sophistication and richness to a room. The key is to embrace hues that energize and inspire you.
Layer Warm Lighting
Lighting has a significant impact on the ambiance of your home. Swap out harsh overhead lighting for softer options like floor and table lamps, candles, or fairy lights. Replace bright-white light bulbs with warm-toned ones to create a calming glow. This type of lighting not only enhances coziness but can also help improve relaxation and reduce stress.
Mix Textures and Textiles
To make your home feel snug and inviting, layer different fabrics and materials. Think plush blankets, warm rugs, and decorative throw cushions. Incorporate cozy textiles like flannel, wool, and velvet to add depth and richness to your decor. These soft touches encourage relaxation and comfort, especially on chilly evenings.
Bring Nature Inside
Houseplants and fresh flowers are an excellent way to bring a sense of tranquility into your home. Greenery not only adds a pop of color to brighten up your space but can also improve air quality. When it’s too cold to enjoy the outdoors, connecting with nature indoors can have a grounding and calming effect on your mind.
Invite Joy with Personal Touches
Surround yourself with decor that makes you smile. Display cherished photos, artwork, or souvenirs from your travels. Personal items help to create a sense of belonging and happiness, serving as reminders of joyful moments and meaningful connections.
Use Seasonal Scents
Engage your senses with seasonal scents that set the mood. Light a citrus-scented candle for an uplifting, fresh vibe, or burn lavender incense for stress relief. Essential oil diffusers are another great option for filling your home with comforting aromas. Scents play a powerful role in shaping the atmosphere and can significantly influence your mood.
Play Ambient Music
Music can be a powerful tool for elevating your mood. Create a playlist of instrumental music, or find ambient sounds like crackling fireplaces, ocean waves, or chirping birds. Playing these in the background can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide a soothing backdrop to your day.
By incorporating these simple yet effective design changes, you can transform your home into a sanctuary that nurtures your well-being during the winter months. Whether it’s through warm lighting, cheerful colors, or personal touches, your space can become a powerful ally in keeping your spirits lifted.
To learn more about Eric Bramlett, visit Bramlett Real Estate. Eric Bramlett is an expert realtor and the owner of Bramlett Real Estate based in Austin, Texas. With his extensive experience in real estate development and brokerage management, he’s won multiple industry awards and has been featured in top media outlets like Axios, Bloomberg, Forbes, Austin Business Journal, and Austin American-Statesman.
Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
