Winter Survival Checklist
design by Laura Engen
It’s no secret that after nearly a year in quarantine, spending the rest of the winter cooped up inside feels especially tough. That’s why this month, we’re sharing our must haves for surviving the cold months ahead. And while this list is a mix of decor, wardrobe essentials, and entertainment, in the end it’s the combination of them together that makes us truly feel at home. In fact, one of the things we love the most about designing homes for our clients is that it’s about more than choosing the perfect tile or color palette. It’s about something bigger - creating the life you want to live. Our homes, more than ever, are a reflection of who we are and what’s important to us, and everything from the clothes we wear to the food we eat determines how we use our spaces and what makes everyday so enjoyable inside them.
So, here’s to creating a well-rounded home for the winter. With a little coziness and comfort, we’re sure to get through it together (even if we’re six feet apart).
Xo,
Laura
PUZZLE
Learning to bake bread, picking up needlepoint, discovering a love for watercolor painting - the hobbies of the pandemic are limitless. But if you’re ready to try something new (or a mama who just doesn’t have the time to do anything but pour herself a glass of wine at the end of the day), then this puzzle is for you. It’s a total step up from the usual Thomas Kinkaide options at Target, and honestly, it’s so pretty you could frame it (hey - why not throw it in a gallery wall as a reminder to enjoy slow moments here and there?). And whether you want to get the whole family in on the action or use it as a bit of “me-time” after everyone’s asleep, it’s the kind of (pretty) game we don’t mind leaving out on the table for days on end.
THROW
If you’re missing those just-crisp evenings of summer and fall where you miiiiight need a light layer or blanket, you’re not alone! The good news? You can still enjoy a bit of the outdoors, even when it’s covered in snow. We love this Faribault wool blanket in buffalo plaid for that exact reason. Not only is it the perfect decor addition to your indoor world (wouldn’t it look gorgeous draped on a sofa?), but it’s also a great extra layer for staying comfortable outside. All you have to do to complete your ensemble is to whip up a quick thermos of hot cocoa, plop yourself on a bench, and watch the sunset over the lake. You’ll most certainly feel oh-so-cozy (and chic).
CANDLESTICKS
One of the most essential ways to combat the winter blues is to embrace ambient lighting. And in our opinion, you can never have too many candles! But you don’t have to stick to only scented jar candles - why not up your style game with some seriously stylish taper holders? This pair of vintage glossy black candlesticks from House of Verna are amazing and would go perfectly with any decor style. Just be sure to snag them quickly if you’re dying for a pair - they’re part of this shop’s one-of-a-kind vintage collection and you don’t want to miss them! (P.S. be sure to check out the rest of their shop, too - they specialize in vintage housewares and clothing, leather, linens, and candles and it’s all totally swoon-worthy).
COAT
Feeling stuck inside when those temps hit single digits? This year, instead of getting endless cabin fever or forcing yourself into nine million bulky layers, do yourself a solid and invest in an actually-warm winter coat! This number from Minneapolis-based Askov Finlayson is a total lifesaver, no matter how cold (down to -20, in fact). And as a bonus, it’s climate positive, so you can feel good about your wardrobe supporting a healthy planet. So, go ahead - get out there and explore! Winter’s quite pretty if you’re toasty enough to enjoy it!
HOUSESHOES
Let’s be real - this season in Minnesota is all about practicality (as in most of us wear only 1-2 pairs of ultra-sturdy snow boots for THE. ENTIRE. SEASON.). By February, we are almost willing to walk through knee-high snow drifts in mules just for a chance at a shoe refresh. And while that is of course a (chilly) option, there are cozier options that allow you to stay in the warmth of your house. Personally, we are big fans of house shoes. And if you’re on the hut for a stylish pair that still feels comfy for endless hours working from home, get yourself some shearling slides from Hazel + Rose, stat! We love the “spiced orange” color especially (it’s just the right amount of saturation to make a statement, while still going with everything else), and the fact that each pair is made by hand means it’s an investment you’ll love for years to come.