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Jessica Shaw, Interior Design Director, The Turett Collaborative

Winter naturally draws us inward—toward home, toward rest, and toward spaces that support a slower, more intentional rhythm. As temperatures drop, interiors have the opportunity to become sanctuaries of warmth, balance, and emotional wellness.

Interior Design Director Jessica Shaw of The Turett Collaborative shares her favorite strategies for cultivating calm and joy this season. These thoughtful, easy-to-implement ideas help refresh the atmosphere, mood, and sensory experience of any space—whether residential or hospitality-driven.

1. Elevate the Atmosphere Through Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a simple yet powerful way to shift the tone of a room. Research shows it can reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and increase overall well-being. Shaw suggests experimenting with essential oils in a diffuser—her personal favorite is from Muji—to discover which scents resonate most.

Looking for a seasonal option? Simmer cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, and citrus slices on the stovetop to create a warm, festive winter aroma.

2. Declutter to Clear Both Space & Mind

Visual noise often translates to emotional noise. If clutter accumulates, it can trigger stress and disrupt spatial harmony. Shaw recommends taking cues from feng shui: remove what no longer serves you, and reorganize what remains.

A tidy, intentional layout encourages calm, creativity, and productivity—even in high-traffic environments.

3. Add a Single Element That Sparks Joy

After decluttering, bring back one small item that lifts your mood: a cozy blanket in a favorite hue, fresh flowers, a playful coaster, or a framed photograph.

These joyful touches help personalize a space and infuse it with renewed positive energy.

4. Let Music Set the Emotional Tone

Music activates endorphins, eases tension, and boosts overall mood. Whether classical compositions or atmospheric folk are more your style, Shaw recommends playing calming playlists throughout the day to help create a restorative environment.

A smart speaker makes this effortless—simply ask for relaxing tunes and let the ambiance shift.

5. Refresh What You Already Have

A winter reset doesn’t require a total overhaul. Reupholstering a chair, repositioning furniture, or repurposing a favorite piece can completely reinvigorate a room.

These small design moves are cost-effective, sustainable, and surprisingly impactful.

6. Invest in High-Insulation Bedding (and Skip the Top Sheet)

For a truly cocoon-like winter retreat, Shaw suggests layering soft, high-insulation bedding—and skipping the top sheet for a cleaner, cozier sleep experience.

The result: a bedroom that feels like a warm embrace at the end of every cold day.

A calmer, more joyful winter begins at home—through tactile comfort, sensory layering, and spaces that welcome rest.