As winter sets in and the days get shorter, we tend to spend more time indoors. The winter season become synonymous with reprieve, relaxation, and closeness with family and friends. While we're spending a great deal of time indoors and preparing to host loved ones, naturally we begin to contemplate on how our home can look its best. This can be accomplished through anything from major renovations, to fresh new ideas, and seasonal decor.
Many homeowners desire that their house should look its best while they're hosting family and friends for the holidays. Spending so much time indoors in the winter, a natural impetus may arise to get some work done that has been put off. Generally, renovations are more costly during the summertime. Since business tends to be slower in the winter, renovations become more affordable.
Due to the cold weather outdoors, it's better to stick to interior renovations during this season. Projects such as applying fresh coats of paint, replacing kitchen appliances, or even installing new flooring are all manageable. Replacing flooring, however, may take up to four or five weeks to complete. Hardwood floors are subject to moisture, so they need to rest within the room anywhere from two days to a week before being installed. Other flooring can be installed faster than hardwoods, such as Luxury Vinyl Tile, or vinyl sheet flooring, which do resemble hardwoods.
Winter can also be an opportune time to add fresh coats of paint to the walls. Generally, spring and summer months are considered better times to paint, because it's feasible to open the windows at this time and let the fumes out of the house. This is better for health as it prevents breathing in toxins. However, the windows can still possibly be opened in the winter, and the air being arid helps the paint dry quickly, speeding up the work.
Another good project to take on in the winter is updating lighting fixtures. During the winter season, the daytime is shorter and we receive less sunlight. This can result in a seasonal affective disorder, wherein we feel a bit down. One solution to this is to spend time soaking up sun during its peak hours, or opening all the curtains to allow as much natural light in as possible. Another solution is to improve the quality of your home's lighting, or increase the overall lighting. Utilize full-spectrum and energy-efficient light bulbs. This enacts a brighter and wider glow. You may also utilize accent and task lighting, which creates a soothing glow.
A few minor ways to usher in the ambiance desirable in this winter season are by adding candles, lighting a fire in the fireplace, and bringing out thicker comforters, a basket of blankets for the living room, and a thick, spacious area rug. The candles will add much desired light and warmth, as will the fireplace. The thick blankets and rugs will create a cozy environment wherein to spend time with family and loved ones.