Cozy up your home

Even the excitement of a brand new home can’t always stave off winter blues brought on by short, low-light, chilly and sometimes rainy days. While you can’t do anything about external conditions — and you certainly want to save energy by keeping your thermostat as low as possible — there are ways to make your home look and feel more comfortable. Skillful use of light, floor coverings, window coverings and other textiles can “amp up the cozy” in your newconstruction interior.

Throws and blankets

Nothing spells comfort like a warm blanket. It sometimes seems even looking at a blanket inspires toasty feelings. To make the house look and feel more cozy, toss a blanket over the sofa and/ or armchair in your family room or man cave. Or stack throws invitingly in a homey basket made of natural fibers. The heavier the weight, the cozier the effect. In the bedroom too, an extra quilt or faux fur throw helps turn up the comfy factor.

As to color, consultants say brown tones — such as chocolate, beige and taupe — induce a feeling of safety and security, while blue and green tones proffer a sense of calm. Red and gold-tinged earth tones spell warmth.

Lighting

While you’ve likely got ceiling cans of varying sizes throughout the home, experts agree that adding floor and table lamps large and small can make a space feel more inviting. Consider directed fixtures for tasks such as reading or playing games. But don’t neglect lamps that act to wash the room with light. Accent pieces such as sconces or clipon fixtures provide for yet another layer of light. Wall dimmers can foster intimacy. For more traditional appeal, consider a few strategically placed candlestick fixtures.

Rugs

Even in a carpeted home, throw rugs can ratchet up the homey feel. Settling a rug of sheepskin or fleece next to the bed will ensure your feet at least get off to a comfy start each day. Rugs can also help anchor seating arrangements. Place one between the sofa and coffee table for a homey vibe. Of course, a bare floor is instantly warmed by the addition of any floor covering, large or small. Consider a knotted rug for a rustic feel or a traditional Persian for Old World flavor. In children’s rooms, plush floor coverings can boost a sense of fun. Think about candy-colored accent throws to complement bedding and window coverings.

Window coverings

Installing layers of window coverings, i.e., sheers, curtains and blinds, might seem fussy to some. But when winter rolls around, those layers of material help block out the chill. In addition, experts note drapes add texture to the walls, which enhances the snug appeal. Drawing the drapes can even help save on your energy bill.

Fireplace features

As the owner of a newly built California home, you will not be entitled to the bliss of spending an evening before a crackling wood fire. But the law does allow for other pleasures, albeit of a sleeker aesthetic. Gas and electric fireplaces, typically glassenclosed, still offer up the visual of dancing flames to delight the eye and boost midwinter spirits.

Short, chilly days tend to weigh upon the spirit. Happily, light, textiles and gas or electric fireplaces can go a long way toward making your home more pleasant for family and friends.