With the freedom of the work-from-home order, many people are dreaming of relocating to someplace warm. After all, who wouldn’t enjoy a little extra sunshine this time of year? But for all the allure of tropical climates, winter can actually be quite exciting, too. Believe it or not, there’s a lot to love about this season and an endless array of beauty to be had - especially if your days are filled with snow activities and you have a cozy place with magnificent views to rest after a day of skiing.
To lift your spirits as we head into this colder season, today’s blog is about all things winter chic. So grab your favorite cocktail and put on that cozy knit hat - we’ll tell you all about why we love mountain homes (especially in the winter) and what makes them extra-special getaways you won’t want to miss.
Architectural Features
Any home can be a cozy retreat in the winter, but when it comes to enjoying the outdoors from the warmth of your space, a few key architectural elements make mountain homes the ultimate vacation spots.
A fireplace, naturally, is the obvious starter. Gas works well, but if given the choice, we’re always big fans of a wood-burning option (whether a full fireplace or a wood-burning stove alternative) because it’s the real deal. Nothing beats listening to that nostalgic crackling fire and the smell of burning wood, wouldn’t you say?
Fireplace via Stuv America
And then, of course, big windows and tall ceilings make mountain homes come to life, and a cozy retreat just isn’t the same without them. Both allow plenty of natural light and sunshine in, and make a home feel spacious and open. Plus, with an endless winter wonderland just outside, the panoramic view is all yours for the taking.
Photo used with permission from Kendall Wilkinson Design (@kendallwilkinsondesign), Highline Partners (@highlinepartners), Locati Architects (@locatiarchitects), Gibeon Photography (@gibeonphoto)
Color Palette
Another aspect of the mountain home that we adore is its color palette. We especially love a dreamy combination of grey, off-white, blue, and deep black from Farrow and Ball (our hand-picked favorites are French Gray, Stiffkey Blue, Snow White, Worsted, and Railings). These saturated colors with a variety of green and blue undertones work as a perfect contrast to the bright and crisp whites of winter and help to create a serene and cozy environment. And that’s certainly our idea of the coziest of winter getaways.
Wood Combinations
The aesthetic of a mountain home isn’t complete without embracing wood in all its forms. Not only is it very durable (shou sugi ban), but it can also be a sustainable material (some species, reclaimed wood). From distressed to sleek and modern, natural to dark-stained, ceiling beams to wall panels, there’s no limit to the combinations that are both beautiful and possible. Of course, incorporating wood doesn’t mean using it on every surface; you run the risk of an outdated log cabin vibe if you go that route. Instead, the choice and use of wood must be intentional and peppered here and there for a collected look; a mix of textures and colors is key to achieving the right balance. And when it’s done right? Well, it makes for a jaw-dropping ski retreat that deserves a spot in every travel magazine.
Photo used with permission from Kendall Wilkinson Design (@kendallwilkinsondesign), Highline Partners (@highlinepartners), Locati Architects (@locatiarchitects), Gibeon Photography (@gibeonphoto)
Furniture & Decor Essentials
We’re endlessly inspired by the furniture and decor touches that make winter retreats feel warm and inviting. From streamlined silhouettes for larger base items (furniture window treatments, and lighting) to finishing layers of cozy winter-inspired textiles (fabrics like boucle, wool, plaid, velvet, mohair, and fur), what is most striking about these retreats is the blend of minimalistic and simple styles with comfort and playfulness. The most beautiful homes tend to have a mix of pottery, plush area rugs, art, and planters, too, that add an intriguing element of charm we can’t get enough of. Together, the combination of it all makes it the kind of place you’d want to curl up in for hours enjoying a view of the fresh-falling snow.
If the thought of the upcoming winter season has you feeling down, you’re not alone. But there is so much to love about this season, and though we’ll likely be spending most of the time indoors, there’s no reason we can’t spend it in spaces that make us feel rejuvenated and allow us to bask in the beauty of the snow-covered landscape around us. So, if a modern ski lodge sounds like your kind of magical winter retreat, we say go ahead and indulge in a little remote vacation of your own. No matter where you are, it’s sure to bring you a sense of coziness and contentment that can’t be beat.
By Megan Johansson, Contributor to INVIEW Interior Design