Brighten Up Your Apartment!
February 3, 2014
Ok, I think we can all admit that we’ve had our fill of the snow and below-normal temps this year. Shorter days and draining winter nights can bring even the most cheerful of people down into a winter-induced depression. But the good news is that even though you can’t change the dreary weather outside, you can change your indoor environment into something warm, cozy and bright in a move that can directly affect your mood and happiness.
Let the Sun Shine In!
Like it or not, the freezing temperatures can make it difficult to get outside and get some sun. So when winter’s chill forces you inside for long periods of time, just make a few simple changes to let the light in. Keep shades up during the day to let in the maximum amount of light. Or, if you have heavy window treatments, swap them out for translucent curtains to maintain privacy while still letting in sunlight. If you can, try to spend a few minutes each day sitting next to the window, as sunlight provides us with Vitamin D, which can improve mood. The sun will also let in some extra heat, which may help reduce your heating bill!
Smells Like Spring
Our sense of smell is one of the most powerful senses we have. In addition to the warm, comforting glow that burning candles give off, the right scented candle can remind you of spring. Choose fragrances like lavender, rose, verbena, fresh linen and jasmine to get your mind thinking spring. The McKenzie Apartment Company recommends candles be used at a minimum, however wax warmers (such as those from Scentsy) are a fantastic way to make your home smell like spring. Also, Wallflower plug-in scents from Bath and Body Works are also another great way to fill your apartment with yummy smells. My personal favorites are anything to do with food… cookies, vanilla, birthday cake, mint chocolate, citrus… they all work for me!
Everyone Loves Flowers
What better way to cheer up your apartment than by bringing in fresh flowers and plants that constantly remind you of the coming of spring? Head to your favorite neighborhood florist and choose a long-lasting bouquet of flowers in the brightest spring colors. Pick out a few green plants that can help improve the air quality in your home, such as a peace lily or a fern. Gerbera daisies and Sunflowers also add a wonderful splash of color.
Make Room for Décor
A few strategically-placed décor elements can help transform a dark, chilly living room into something warm and cozy. Get your favorite oversized chair reupholstered with a fabric that’s splashed with bright, floral prints. For something easier to maintain, pick up a throw rug and a few throw pillows in lively, spring colors to transform your space from drab to fab. Décor accessories such as vases, candy dishes and other glassware can add a fun, funky element to an otherwise dingy-looking room in winter. Also, adding a tall white bookshelf, or even a wall-shelf as pictured above, with some colorful books can make a huge difference in your space.