Combat chilly temperatures and shorter days by creating a warm and cheery atmosphere this winter.

The downside of having less sunlight during the winter months is that many people experience the winter blues.

Saft also recommends placing an emphasis on comfortability, warmth, and cleanliness of your space.

living room with fresh flowers on coffee table and framed pressings on walls

Credit:David Land

Were hibernating, its dark earlier, its important we make ourselves more comfortable, he says.

As youre redecorating, he suggests asking yourself, what can function better in my home?

“Or, you want tohang a gallery wallbut you should probably clear some wall space first.

Navarro’s living room with shades of blue and neutral colors; Furniture in living room at home

Credit:Buff Strickland

He suggests working backward from your goal list, so it doesnt feel overwhelming.

Divide and conquer is the key, Saft says of decorating projects.

Dont Forget to Declutter

Clutteror lack thereofcan have a profound effect on our mood.

pastel pink and gold bedroom

Credit: Michael Partenio

Once you pare down your things, you now have room to decorate,” Saft says.

This can look like replacing the shower liner in your bathroom or tossingexpired spicesfrom your pantry.

Saft shares a few of his favorite decorating ideas to inspire acozy home refresh.

White living room with navy couch

Credit:Dane Tashima

Using heavier, warm textures, experiment with new throw pillow covers, bed sheets, and blankets.

According to Saft, this is a cost-effective, yet impactful, way to upgrade your space.

Everyone likes different color palettes so you should go with what makes you happy.

If warm plaid patterns dont appeal to you, dont incorporate them, he states.

The warmer glow will add a coziness to your space that combats the gray conditions outside.

Alternatively, you might try a new light fixture altogether.

One of the more labor-intensive ways to lighten a room up is by painting it.

Even if you love the color that it currently is, a fresh coat will look clean and vibrant.

Use a glossy paint to reflect light around the room, especially when using a darker shade of paint.

Saft also suggestsadding mirrorsto brighten up a space.

Always place them near a window so they can reflect more natural light," he says.

These are a few of Saft’s favorite ways to give a space a fast and easy upgrade.