8 minute read
WINTER TEXTILES
hen the temperature drops, we want our homes to feel warm, restful, and comforting. Updating your interior with a few carefully chosen winter textiles can create the ambiance we crave with very little effort. Here, local designers share easy ways to take coziness and warmth to the next level this winter.
Which textiles help us create a sense of warmth and coziness in cold weather?
“A very easy way to add warmth and comfort -- that inviting feeling that we are all after -- would be to incorporate easily swappable items such as throws, pillows, and lighting,” says Sara Godfrey, founder of Sara Godfrey Design in Alexandria, MN. “In the winter months, we strive to feel wrapped in a hug in our own homes. It's easily achieved by adding knit throws and chunky knit/woven pillow covers, creating a layered soft and cozy aesthetic.”
As Godfrey mentions, pillows and blankets are the easiest winter textiles to add to a room. However, there are additional ways to evoke feelings of softness and warmth from floor to ceiling. Start by emphasizing texture.
SKYE FINGALSON
PRESIDENT DESIGN 2 SELL & ALLURE
SARA GODFREY FOUNDER OF SARA GODFREY DESIGN
What kind of textures work well in winter?
Winter is a tactile season, a time when we want to curl up in a pile of plush pillows, wrap ourselves in a soft blanket and sink into thick rugs. Soft or fuzzy fabrics a rug with a deep pile and curtains and table coverings in familiar patterns and touchable textures feel extra comforting.
“Fabric can help cozy up a room,” says Jeanene Hoppe, Fergus Home and Hardware’s (Fergus Falls, MN) Window Treatment/Interior Designer. “Select plush fabrics like soft velvets for pillows, which are making a comeback with fabric manufacturers. Use soft, warm throws to add an accent to the room and cover up with them in front of a warm fire.”
The textiles we wear in the winter also work well in the home. Jamie Wallace, Certified Kitchen Designer at Calla Lily Designs, Fergus Falls, MN, recommends incorporating wools, fleece and flannels, by way of throws and pillows, but that’s only the beginning.
“When we think ‘winter’, we think plaids, tweed, and furry pillows,” says Skye Fingalson, President of Design 2 Sell and Allure, both located in Detroit Lakes, MN. “Incorporating fur and plaid pillows, knitted throw blankets, and tweed fabric furniture are ways to add winter textiles to our homes. They create their own ambiance of comfort and relaxation, the kind that — mixed with a warm fire — give both you and your guests a soothing atmosphere.”
Which colors work well in winter?
“Holidays always call for reds; think rich accents with a mix of outdoor elements and silver to add some additional cheer throughout your home,” says Jamie Wallace. “But in the aftermath of the Christmas teardown, we always enjoy the more soothing tones of blues and whites to ring in a calmer season in the New Year.”
If neither of these color schemes work for you, don’t worry. There are plenty of other options to choose from.
“If your current color palette and space allows, you may opt for richer jewel tones,” suggests Center of Design (Audubon, MN) Owner and Lead Designer, Liz Carlson. “It really is personal preference. I think there is something soft, warm, and cozy about the off-whites or soft creams in winter.”
LIZ CARLSON
OWNER & LEAD DESIGNER AT CENTER OF DESIGN
How can we easily transition between seasons?
“Pillow covers are a great way to swap your pillows out during the seasons if you wish,” explains Sara Godfrey. “You can use the insert for multiple different covers if you choose. I always recommend pillow covers have a hidden zipper or a button enclosure so you can effectively swap and or care for them by washing per their care instructions.”
Place seasonal items like blankets and pillow covers in one spot in the linen closet or in a special box or bag in storage. Switching them out when the weather cools will take just a few minutes. Or, you can simply add more pillows and blankets for maximum warmth.
How can we change our floor coverings this season?
“Swap out your sisal or jute rugs for sheepskin, wool, faux fur or really any higher pile rug that you can sink your toes into,” suggests Liz Carlson. “If you want to get real wild and crazy, try layering your rugs!”
Layering rugs doesn’t have to be intimidating. It’s just another way to add dimension and comfort. Use the larger rug as a base and add a smaller rug on top. Patterns enliven a quiet space, while solid colors anchor a room with lots of furniture. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns and try natural fibers.
“A layered rug look can also create an environment that lends to a restful, homey vibe,” says Sara Godfrey. “Using hide rugs, fur, or faux fur elements is another way to layer textures giving depth to the space.”
See more from this home in the Mar/Apr 2023 issue of Lake & Home.
SARA GODFREY FOUNDER OF SARA GODFREY DESIGN
What window treatments are best for cold weather?
Layering works for window treatments, too. It’s a practical and pretty way to your home toasty on cold winter nights.
“It’s all about keeping the heat in your home,” explains Jeanene Hoppe. “The key is to layer products, such as a shade under a drape. Another option is to use Hunter Douglas Architella shades which have four layers creating three air chambers for extremely high thermal insulation value and energy savings.”
Many other manufacturers also make shades and curtains with insulating properties. They’re available in a wide range of colors and textures. They’ll keep your home looking great while minimizing your carbon footprint and maybe even lowering your heating bill a bit.
JEANENE HOPPE
WINDOW TREATMENT/INTERIOR DESIGNER AT FERGUS HOME AND HARDWARE’S
How can we add winter textiles to our tables and dining spaces?
“A great way to add winter textiles to our tables is by bringing the outdoors in,” says Skye Fingalson. “I enjoy going outside and cutting off some of my pine bushes, bringing them in, and arranging them in my dining room centerpiece. Another way to incorporate winter textiles to our tables is by scattering pinecones amongst the table. They bring in a lot of texture, but also that sense of comfort and a nice piece of nature.”
Jamie Wallace adds that placing bare twigs, spruce boughs, or eucalyptus in centerpieces or vases can make a table feel fresh and lively, and Minnesota is not short on options when it comes to natural elements.
Natural elements and greenery elements look great when they’re layered over festive winter textiles. It’s an easy way to wow guests when you’re entertaining, and even when the holidays have come and gone, glitz can still be incorporated alongside more rustic accents. A touch or two of silver and gold can perk up a home’s environment in the long winter months.
“Tablescaping is such a treat to our guests when they come over for dinner and assists with the overall presentation of the dinner,” adds Skye Fingalson. “Add a plaid or woven table runner and mix in various textures and sheens.”
SKYE FINGALSON
How do we decorate on a budget?
Adding winter textiles to your home doesn’t have to be expensive. Note the places where you could use a little extra comfort. Perhaps the kids would like to curl up under warm blankets on movie night, or putting your feet up on a tweed footstool would feel great after a long day outdoors. Record your needs, along with the colors, textures, and fabrics you love.
You might already own items that would fill these needs. If you don’t, don’t worry. The next few months will be the perfect time to shop for next year.
“Often times, buying out of season is the best way to purchase these items on a budget,” says Sara Godfrey. “Classic woven and knit blankets in neutral tones are typically available all year long, so keep your eyes out for sales and discounted seasons.”
Just a few thoughtfully placed winter textiles can go a long way. They signal the start of a new season and help us create a comfortable atmosphere, so choose the fabrics, colors, and textures that are most comforting to you, creating your own restful winter retreat. L&H
SARA GODFREY FOUNDER OF SARA GODFREY DESIGN