How to Brighten Your Home in the Depths of Winter
Winter isn’t just cold—it’s dark. With less daylight and more time spent indoors, our homes have to work overtime to keep us feeling energized, inspired, and cozy. The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your entire space to make it feel fresh again. At ALT Design Studio, we believe that small shifts can bring big energy—especially during the long Iowa winters.
Start with the Simplest Fix: Clean & Clear.
Decluttering might not be the most glamorous part of design, but it’s magic. Removing excess visual weight and giving your surfaces a reset instantly makes a space feel brighter. Once you’ve cleared the clutter, it’s the perfect time to bring in a few low-light houseplants. They don’t just add a splash of green—they breathe life (literally) into a room.
Play With Reflection.
Light is precious this time of year. To maximize it, consider mirrors and reflective accents. A table mirror, metallic shelf styling, or even a gold tray can bounce natural light around your home and make your space feel more open. Bonus: these pieces look just as good after the snow melts.
Design Lighting That Glows—Not Glares.
Our lighting advice stays consistent year-round, but in winter, it really earns its keep. ALT always recommends layering lighting at multiple heights: floor lamps, table lamps, and even shelf or sconce lighting. Warmer bulb tones (think soft white, not stark blue) help create that cozy, lived-in feel, even when it’s 5 PM and pitch black outside.
Texture, Color & Style Swaps
Bouclé, chenille, and rich woods or rattan instantly warm up a room. Not sure about color? Don’t worry about chasing seasonal trends—just find tones that match your home’s personality. Bold shades = playful. Earthy tones = grounded. Either way, ALT helps you make it yours.
Embrace the Fresh Start
Instead of rushing to redecorate post-holidays, we encourage clients to pause. Enjoy the clarity that comes after the tree comes down. Then refresh intentionally—whether it’s new throw pillows, a framed art swap, or a tiny DIY you’ve been putting off.
