Recently we have shared ideas and information about the winter- wonderland which is the Muskoka region. Life lived year round here, is a full life indeed. Yet, being as north as we are, winter does come with some challenges, including right at home. Our long, dark nights and short days can keep a Muskoka cottage dreary, but this need not be so.
You can brighten the interior or your home, cottage, or condo with some simple, yet clever decorating and storage ideas, and create a winter oasis within your dwelling. House Logic has published some great tips and advice on winter home projects which can not only add more cheer to your home, but also help you maintain and protect your property when the worst of winter weather hits.
One of the easiest things to do to brighten up your Muskoka cottage is to add more light, literally. Within one afternoon you can take your home out of the shadow of grey winter skies, and into a light and cheery atmosphere to be enjoyed every day. First, take a look at the lightbulbs you are using. Instead of yellow, incandescent bulbs, opt for those which produce a whiter, brighter light. Bulbs rated at 3,500 – 4,000K (Kelvins), provide light which is closer akin to sunlight.
Speaking of sunlight, did you know you can let in more light by removing your window screens? You might be surprised to find out just how much these have been blocking sunlight from your home. You can also enhance the amount of sunlight by opting for lighter weight curtains or pull-down shades. If you have any shrubs or trees near windows, trimming them back will also allow more light to come into your home.
If your Muskoka cottage is feeling a bit cramped this winter, some simple organization may help your space feel more open and cheerful. Cut down on winter gear pile-ups and give your family a place to store boots, hats and gloves. Set up some stackable storage cubes near the door to your Muskoka Room or other entrance; one handy place will make for more efficient mornings, and help keep things tidy. If space is a concern, get creative with your door. Hang a shoe bag, or attach some tin cans to create your own storage space for winter accessories.
Bringing in the weather is another concern when it comes to keeping your home bright and clean during the winter. Avoid tracking mud through your cottage with a boot rack or tray by the door. By providing a place for shoes to dry just inside, shoes can come off and mud or snow won’t get tracked throughout your cottage. You can also cut down on how much mud and water come in by placing a heavy-duty floor mat outside your door, and another mat on the inside; two chances to wipe off dirt will help keep your home, cottage or condo clean regardless of the weather.
A bright and organized home will help keep winter blahs at bay. If you are planning to move to the area, or are ready to sell, discover the care and expertise of The Rick Wearing & Sandra Parrott Team. We are here to work for you, to give you the best experience when it comes to fulfilling your home dreams. Please call us at 705-788-3535 or email at info@WearingParrottTeam.com today!
This information is taken from sources deemed to be reliable. The Wearing Parrott Team does not guarantee accuracy; we recommend information be validated independently.