Revitalize Your Living Room for Winter Comfort

As we spend more time indoors this winter, it’s a good idea to refresh your living space for maximum warmth and comfort. Your living room should feel like a cozy retreat from Connecticut’s chilly temps, and a few simple updates can make a world of difference. From layering textures to introducing this year’s most inviting paint colors, here’s how to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in your home.

Embrace Cozy Textiles and Layers

One of the easiest ways to transform your living room for winter is through soft furnishings. Swap out lightweight summer throws for chunky knit blankets, faux fur, or woolen textures that invite you to snuggle up. Layering area rugs can also add warmth, especially if you have hardwood or tile flooring. A plush, high-pile rug over a flat-weave base creates an extra-cozy look and feel underfoot. Don’t forget to add plenty of cushions in varying fabrics like velvet and chenille to enhance the inviting ambiance.

Introduce 2025’s Trending Paint Colors

A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in revitalizing your space. The color trends for 2025 are all about warmth, nature, and creating a sense of comfort. If you’re considering a new look, these trending hues will set the perfect tone for your winter sanctuary:

• Earthy Clays and Warm Terracottas: Inspired by nature, these rich, grounding tones bring a sense of stability and warmth to your living space. Shades like “Autumn Ember” or “Sienna Sunset” from leading paint brands are excellent choices.

• Deep Greens and Forest Tones: Reflecting a renewed connection to nature, hues like “Evergreen Haven” or “Mossy Retreat” create a calming and restorative environment.

• Muted Blues and Soft Teals: While traditionally cool, shades like “Coastal Mist” or “Winter Sky” add a sense of serenity when paired with warm wood tones and soft lighting.

• Rich Chocolates and Deep Caramels: For a sophisticated, cocooning effect, consider deep, chocolatey browns or caramel-infused neutrals. These colors work beautifully with warm metals like brass and copper accents.

Play with Lighting for a Warm Glow

Shorter days and longer nights make lighting an essential element in setting the mood. Swap out cool-toned LED bulbs for warm white or soft amber lighting. Incorporate layered lighting by using a combination of floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces to create a gentle, ambient glow. Candles and string lights can also add a touch of magic to your winter haven.

Rearrange for Better Functionality

Sometimes, a simple rearrangement of furniture can make a room feel brand new. Try orienting seating around a focal point like a fireplace or a central coffee table to encourage conversation and relaxation. If space allows, add a cozy reading nook with a comfortable chair, a small side table, and a warm lamp for those long winter evenings.

By embracing rich colors, soft textures, and thoughtful lighting, you can transform your living room into a comforting escape from the winter chill. Whether you make small tweaks or go for a full refresh, these updates will keep your home feeling warm and inviting all season long.

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. For remodeling needs, contact O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Submit your questions to Bob at info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line "Ask the Pro." All questions may be considered for publication, and advice is for guidance only.

The 2025 Interior Colors of the Year

As we look ahead to 2025, paint companies have begun unveiling their "Colors of the Year," a selection of shades set to influence interior design trends and inspire homeowners. While previous years have felt in sync, 2025 sets a wider cast, favoring deep, bold colors in line with serene, nature-inspired hues. Here are the key colors each of the major brands are putting their bets on for the coming year.

Behr: Rumors

Behr has chosen "Rumors," a deep ruby red, as their Color of the Year for 2025. This rich and inviting hue is designed to bring warmth and energy to any space. "Rumors" is versatile enough to be used as an accent color or as the primary shade in a room, offering a bold yet sophisticated statement. Whether on a feature wall, cabinetry, or even exteriors, this color aims to create a cozy and dynamic atmosphere​.

Valspar: Encore

Valspar’s pick, "Encore," is a striking ultramarine blue with a violet undertone. This color evokes a sense of confidence and constancy, making it ideal for creating a peaceful, yet vibrant environment. "Encore" pairs beautifully with softer shades like sage and lavender, which help to enhance its boldness while maintaining harmony within a space. It’s a color that encourages creativity and serenity, perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, or creative spaces​.

HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams: Quietude

"Quietude," selected by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, is a soft sage green with subtle blue undertones. This color is part of the Naturally Refined 2025 Color Collection, which emphasizes tranquility and enduring design. "Quietude" brings a soothing, natural feel to any room, making it a perfect choice for spaces meant for relaxation, such as bedrooms or living areas. Its gentle hue connects us with nature, fostering a sense of calm and retreat from the hustle of daily life​.

Dutch Boy: Mapped Blue

Dutch Boy Paints has introduced "Mapped Blue" as their Color of the Year. This mid-tone blue is described as timeless and versatile, with a slight yellow undertone that adds warmth. "Mapped Blue" is ideal for creating a serene backdrop that adapts well to various styles and color schemes. Whether used in bedrooms, bathrooms, or even living rooms, this color promises to bring a sense of calm and continuity to the home​.

WGSN & Coloro: Future Dusk

"Future Dusk," a collaboration between WGSN and Coloro, represents a deep, moody blue-purple. This color sits between the realms of reality and fantasy, evoking the mystery of twilight. It’s a color that offers both reassurance and inspiration, making it suitable for a range of applications, from accent walls to entire rooms. "Future Dusk" is about embracing the unknown and finding beauty in the darker, more enigmatic aspects of life​.

Minwax: Violet

For those who favor a more whimsical touch, Minwax’s "Violet" offers a playful yet sophisticated option. This shade of purple is vibrant without being overwhelming, making it a great choice for those looking to infuse their space with personality and creativity. "Violet" is especially suited for accent pieces or feature walls, bringing lively energy into any room​.

One thing is for sure, the 2025 color projection is not for the faint of heart. Between bold blues and deep purples to shades on the softer side, there is something for everyone. If you’re feeling skeptical, ease in with an accent color or refresh your interiors with textiles that are simpler to update. A few small changes can often make a home feel brand new.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Credits: The Spruce, Real Simple, The Nordroom, 

Eight Budget-Friendly Bathroom Upgrades

Bathrooms may be small, but they have a big impact on both your home's value and your daily comfort. You don't need a huge budget to make significant improvements. Here are eight ideas to upgrade your bathroom without breaking the bank:

1. Fresh Air, Fresh Space

Proper ventilation is crucial for a healthy bathroom environment. If your bathroom doesn't have a good fan, consider installing one to prevent mold and mildew. It's an easy DIY project that can cost less than $100, and it will make a noticeable difference in air quality.

2. Go Green with Water-Saving Fixtures

Saving water is not only good for the environment but also for your wallet. Look for water-saving fixtures like low-flow showerheads and faucets. These options are widely available and can reduce water usage by up to 30%, helping you cut down on utility bills while doing your part for the planet.

3. Effortless Cleanliness with Shower Doors

Tired of water spots and soap scum on your shower doors? Upgrade to doors with a water-resistant coating. These coatings repel water droplets, reducing the buildup of stains and making cleaning much easier. It's a small change that can save you time and hassle.

4. Stylish Storage Solutions

Want to refresh your bathroom cabinets without a full replacement? Consider semi-custom options or cabinet overlays. These solutions allow you to update the look of your cabinets without the cost of custom work. A fresh coat of paint or new hardware can also make a big impact for minimal cost.

5. Get Organized with Drawer Inserts

Maximize your bathroom storage with drawer inserts and organizers. These can help you keep your essentials neatly arranged and easily accessible. Say goodbye to digging through cluttered drawers and hello to a more organized space.

6. Update Your Lighting and Mirrors

Swapping out old lighting fixtures and mirrors can instantly modernize your bathroom. Look for energy-efficient LED lighting and stylish mirrors to add a touch of elegance. Backlit mirrors are especially popular and can create a warm, inviting ambiance.

7. Affordable Countertop Makeovers

Granite and quartz countertops can be pricey, but you can still achieve a high-end look on a budget. Consider laminate countertops that mimic the appearance of more expensive materials. You can also find great deals on remnant stone slabs, perfect for smaller spaces like bathrooms.

8. Add Spa-Like Features

Create a spa-like experience with simple upgrades like a new showerhead. Rain showerheads provide a luxurious feel, while handheld sprayers offer convenience and versatility. Adding a new shower curtain or bath mat can also freshen up the space without a big investment.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. For more tips or to schedule a consultation, contact Bob at (860) 589-5155 or visit O'Donnell Bros. Inc.. Your questions can also be sent to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” Advice is for general guidance only.