Add touches of nature and big, bold aesthetic choices | Photo by PNW Production on Pexels

Notes on Design: 2 Themes to Decorate With This Winter for Your Apartment

They’re brief but they’ll get the creative juices flowing

The Christmas tree is still up; holiday decorations are here and there; and you’re starting to look around at what will replace them when they’re finally put away.

While incorporating layers of texture and seasonal colours is generally standard procedure when it comes to winter decoration, you can explore the following ideas for a bit of inspiration, too.

1 | Decorate with Nature In Mind

• If there’s one material that’s synonymous with the outdoors, it’s wood. Opt for furniture pieces made out of wood and those with wooden accents for a more rustic, yet timeless, aesthetic.
• In fact, there have probably been several times when you’ve had the odd mismatch of wooden furniture. But don’t let the conundrum get to you this winter — just ensure that the tonal quality of your woods remains close. Get creative with mixing wood types while bridging the gap with staining towards a similar shade.
• As the apartment dweller, chances are you’re far from the forest and, well, most certainly, a fireplace. Go figure: Why not display a few logs of firewood? There’s nothing wrong with recreating a bit of age-old, traditional comfort. It creates a sense of warmth, no matter where you place the logs. Keep them piled up on their own or neatly stacked in an actual rack designed for firewood.
• Of course, there are other natural materials worth exploring, too, for your decoration and furniture selections. For instance, consider granite, copper, or even leather accents — they’ll add a touch of elegance and reassurance.

2 | Make Big Statements

• Not so keen on a less-is-more approach? Think that it’s too cold outside? Bring charisma and dynamism with careful injections of vibrant and warm colours with your decorations and furniture. Consider as well hanging bold, graphic prints on select walls.
• While there’s always a chance of going overboard with various colours, don’t hold back with your furniture choices. In terms of style, shape, and colour, mix and match according to your best judgement, and it’ll speak volumes of your eclectic, yet thoughtful, character.
• On the topic of mixing things, there aren’t any rules against combining different styles, either. After all, most design styles are informed by each other in some way, shape, or form.
• If your space is limited, you can also create a huge difference just by switching up fabrics. To shift seasonal gears, consider adding, for instance, a few throw cushions with texture and contrast to them, instead of lighter and quieter materials like cotton and linen.
• Similarly, it’s important to assert yourself — so don’t shy away from creating a sense of place in your own home. Do you have a collection of vintage records or dolls? Consider displaying them with careful curation and intention.

Related: Notes on Design: 3 Home Upgrades Here To Stay in Your Apartment for 2022