Even if you live in a mild-winter area, as I do, the shorter days and falling leaves mean chilly weather is on the way. When cold winds blow or gray clouds threaten, curling up in your cozy home with a mug of hot tea and a good book is a delightful way to ward off the winter. You don’t need to make extensive changes to bring the warmth inside when the temperatures fall. A few small changes are all it takes to get your décor ready for winter.

In the Bedroom
When the wind howls, you’ll be snug and warm in your bed with a cozy set of flannel sheets. Take it further with a flannel duvet cover or comforter, and add an extra blanket for all over warmth, or a wooly throw at the foot of the bed to prevent cold feet. If you don’t already have a rug at your bedside, add one now. Mornings are tough enough without the shock of bare feet hitting a cold floor. Give your window a snuggly touch by draping a heavy knit or crochet swag along the curtain rod.

In the Living Room
Switch out cotton, summery throw pillow covers for knit, velour, plush or denim covers in comforting colors like eggplant, pumpkin, hunter green, terracotta, gold and warm browns. Toss a thick, wooly throw blanket on the back of your sofa, and layer an area rug in complementary colors over your floor. Heavier, lined drapes keep out drafts and help insulate the room.

A bowl or basket filled with pinecones is a nice touch of nature, as is a vase filled with pine clippings, dried ornamental grasses or seedpods or colorful fallen leaves. Set out fragrant candles to add some glow to a cold winter night.

In the Bathroom
The bathroom doesn’t need much to show the change of seasons. Swap your towels for a rich, warm color, along with the shower curtain. Add a plush, small rug to cuddle your feet while you brush your teeth on chilly mornings. One or two candles are always a nice touch.

In the Kitchen
Don’t forget your kitchen when decorating for the winter. Instead of bright dishtowels and kitchen mat, warm things up with earthy oranges, golds, greens and browns. Set out a bowl of nuts, along with a decorative nutcracker. Don’t forget to show off a few winter-themed mugs, perfect for a cup of hot chocolate or steaming cup of tea.