Cheers to Winter!
Birchview Design
For our fourth and final season of the year, we are pulling inspiration from our Scandinavian pals, and leaning into the power of “hygge”. The word (pronounced “hoo-ga), is defined as “…creating cozy and convivial atmospheres that promote wellbeing” and is all about surrounding ourselves with things that make us feel good (and who doesn’t want more of that!). Time spent embracing the outdoors, surrounding yourself with loved ones, connecting with your community, and a great emphasis on revamping your interior atmosphere to be extra supportive during a time that can feel more taxing on the body and mind are all ideals that are inspiring. Just like each of our own individual lifestyles (and design styles for that matter), hygge is completely individualized and is all about discovering what makes you feel great in life. Check out a few of our BDI-interpreted ways of incorporating hygge into your space this winter:
Layer Love
As winter blankets our world in frosty hues, the interior of your home has the opportunity to take on a warm and inviting role
through the artful layering of fabrics. Beyond mere decoration, the strategic combination of textures and textiles creates a cozy sanctuary that not only shields us from the cold, but also delights the senses. Bringing in heavier fabrics such as wool, velvet, and chenille provide insulation and a luxurious vibe. The addition of seasonal throw blankets, pillows or drapery that complement your existing palette and vary in pattern, size, texture and shape instantly add depth and create visual interest. Check out your local farmer or maker’s markets for artisan-made textiles to snag one-of-a-kind pieces and get layering!
Foraging Fun
Although our love for fresh greenery runs strong, when the winter months hit, this isn’t always possible to maintain (especially for a secondary home or cottage). Enter: the branch. While devoid of the stereotypically saturated colours of its deciduous and coniferous cousins, branches are absolutely unmatched in spatial and architectural interest. How wispy branches are able to fill a space without feeling heavy is one of life’s little mysteries, and we are all for it. Smaller thinner branches work great in vases and crocks, and larger thicker ones can be used to layer up open shelving or mounted as textural art. Whatever your required size or style, a branch of your liking can be foraged almost anywhere, and requires zero maintenance. Embrace a walk winter and enjoy seeing what you can forage!
Seasonal Switch
As winter’s enchanting embrace settles over our exterior surroundings, there’s a unique opportunity to infuse your living space with special seasonal decor. What better way to capture the spirit of hygge than by commissioning a bespoke art piece from an artist in your community! The incorporation of local elements in the artwork creates a piece that reflects the unique specialities of your environmental surroundings (this could include local landmarks, flora, or fauna that are meaningful to you and the artist). We love to recommend the installation of an art rail on your mantle or open shelving to allow you the option to change out your art with the seasons, without any maintenance of wall installation. Definitely a win-win!
Birchview Design Inc. is an award-winning interior design team serving clientele in the Kawartha Lakes, GTA, and beyond. As a full-service studio, the firm offers an all-inclusive, simplified experience with elevated design expertise.
www.birchviewdesign.com / @birchviewdesign
Build: Four Points Construction
Photography: Ashley Adams @flashadams
Fireplace Art: Peter Rotter @peterrotter.landscape.artist
