Our habits, feelings, and environments change with the seasons. Home becomes more than just our residence throughout the winter months since we build our nest there. But refreshing your interiors doesn’t need to include costly remodeling or drawn-out redesigns. This winter, we’re embracing the art of the seasonal swap, small, thoughtful styling changes that can dramatically lift the mood and function of your space. Whether you’re staying put or preparing to sell, these easy updates will help your home feel new again, without the renovation price tag.
Switch Up Your Soft Furnishings
The quickest way to set a seasonal mood? Swap your soft textures. As the temperature drops, replace lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen with heavier, cosier options like velvet, wool, and boucle. Think chunky knit throws on the couch, flannel bedding, and floor cushions in rich, moody tones.
Tip: Choose cushion covers with zips so you can swap them out seasonally without replacing inserts. Stick to a cohesive colour palette for a more elevated look, think rust, navy, forest green, or warm neutrals.
Warm Up Your Lighting Game
In winter, lighting becomes less about illumination and more about atmosphere. Trade out bright, cool-toned bulbs for warm white ones. Add a lamp to a forgotten corner, introduce a dimmer switch, or layer in fairy lights to create ambience. Candlelight also adds instant warmth and a sense of ritual. Cluster candles of different heights on trays or sideboards for a relaxed, styled look that adds depth and softness to darker evenings.
Tip: Use smart bulbs or warm LED globes (around 2700K) to get that “golden hour” glow at any time of day. Salt lamps or lantern-style table lights also work well to create visual warmth.
Restyle Your Shelves and Surfaces
Bookshelves, coffee tables, and entryway consoles often become cluttered catch-alls. Use the new season as an excuse to refresh your surfaces. Style with intention and group items by height or colour, and introduce seasonal pieces like ceramic vases, dried flowers, or timber accents.
Tip: Use the rule of threes, styling items in groups of three (such as a book, a candle, and a decorative object) creates a balanced, visually appealing look.
Swap in Seasonal Artwork or Prints
You don’t need a gallery wall overhaul, just a subtle change can signal the season. Try replacing a summery beach print with a winter landscape, moody abstract, or earthy-toned illustration. If you use frames with removable mats or open backs, switching art seasonally is surprisingly easy and satisfying.
Tip: Buy or download affordable digital prints and rotate them throughout the year. A4 or A3 frames from local stores make it simple and stylish to update your walls on a budget.
Add Layers, Not Clutter
Winter styling is all about thoughtful layering but be careful not to overwhelm your space. Focus on adding warmth through texture and tone, not just more “stuff.” Stack books next to a woven basket, layer a sheepskin throw over a bench, or place a low tray on the bed with a candle and teacup.
Tip: Aim for three layers per key area, for example, a rug, a coffee table, and soft furnishings in the living room. This gives depth without overdoing it.
Refresh Your Home, Reclaim Your Space
Your home should grow with you – and that includes responding to the seasons. These styling swaps are proof that you don’t need a new floorplan or a fresh coat of paint to make a big impact. With a few intentional updates, you can create a space that feels fresh, lived-in, and completely ready for winter.
So, next time you feel the urge to renovate… maybe just restyle instead.Thinking of selling or just want your space to shine this winter?
Chat with your local BHGRE agent for styling tips that help your home feel fresh – and market-ready – without the reno price tag.
Disclaimer: The opinions posted within this blog are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate, others employed by Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate or the organisations with which the network is affiliated. The author takes full responsibility for his opinions and does not hold Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate or any third party responsible for anything in the posted content. The author freely admits that his views may not be the same as those of his colleagues, or third parties associated with the Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate network.