Finding Freedom in a Smaller, Easier Home

For many homeowners, the decision to downsize isn’t just about moving—it’s about creating a simpler, more manageable lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to reduce maintenance, cut costs, or transition into a home that better fits your needs, downsizing can be a smart and liberating choice. But sorting through years of belongings, making tough decisions, and letting go of sentimental items can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips to make the process smoother.

Start Small, Start Now

Even if you’re not ready to move yet, decluttering early can make the transition easier down the road. A great way to begin is by tackling seasonal items—if you didn’t use it last winter, you probably won’t next year. Sell or donate gently used items through Facebook Marketplace, local shelters, or organizations like the Salvation Army. Many towns also offer seasonal bulk pickup for larger pieces.

Keep the Memories, Let Go of the Clutter

Leaving a home filled with memories can be emotional, but downsizing doesn’t mean letting go of those moments. Take photos and videos of special places in your home, or even create a video diary to share with family. Hosting a small gathering before you move can also be a wonderful way to celebrate and say goodbye.

Choose What Matters Most

When space is limited, less is more. Instead of keeping an entire collection, pick a few meaningful pieces that bring you joy. Some collectibles may also hold financial value—consider selling high-value items while donating or gifting others. The goal is to surround yourself with things that truly matter in your next chapter.

Paperwork Purge

Sorting through years of paperwork is no one’s favorite task, but it’s a necessary step in downsizing. Most documents, like tax returns, only need to be kept for seven years, and many records are now digital. Invest in a quality shredder and start clearing out old files—it will lighten your load significantly.

Enlist Help and Pass It On

Sorting through a lifetime of belongings is easier with support. Family members can help organize, and it’s also a great opportunity to pass down treasured items. Kids and grandkids will appreciate receiving keepsakes that carry meaning, and you’ll feel good knowing they are staying in the family.

While the idea of downsizing may feel overwhelming at first, the process can be incredibly freeing. With less upkeep, lower expenses, and a space that suits your needs, you’ll be able to focus more on enjoying life and less on maintaining a home that no longer fits your lifestyle.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions 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 www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

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.

Think Twice Before Tackling These Outdoor Projects in Winter

Many homeowners think about tackling big projects in the winter before the weather warms up and contractors start getting too busy. But when it comes to major exterior work like roofing and siding, winter isn’t your best bet. Here’s why holding off might save you headaches—and money—in the long run:

1. Cold Weather and Building Materials Don’t Mix
Temperatures below 40°F can significantly impact the performance of materials like shingles and vinyl siding. Shingles become brittle, increasing the risk of cracks and splits during installation, while vinyl siding shrinks in the cold, which can lead to misalignment or leaks when it later expands in warmer weather.

2. Shingle Adherence Needs Heat
Shingle sealant relies on warmth and sunlight to activate properly. In cold conditions, the seal might not set as securely, leading to potential issues down the line. Contractors often need to hand-seal shingles in these conditions, which adds time and expense to an otherwise straightforward process.

3. Air Tools Aren’t Winter-Friendly
Most contractors rely on air nail guns for outdoor work, but these tools can malfunction in cold weather. Moisture in the airline can freeze, causing nails to be driven in too shallow or too deep, compromising the integrity of the installation. Compressors face similar challenges in freezing temperatures.

4. Safety Risks on Icy Surfaces
Winter conditions make outdoor work hazardous. Even experienced contractors face risks from black ice on roofs or ladders, increasing the chance of accidents. While professionals take every precaution, working in icy conditions is inherently more dangerous.

5. Unpredictable Winter Weather
Snow and freezing rain can wreak havoc on a job site. Unlike rain, which can be managed with tarps, snow adds both moisture and weight, making it difficult to protect an open roof. Imagine starting a roofing project only to have a snowstorm dump a foot of snow on the site—it’s a risk no one wants to take.

6. Warranty Concerns
Many manufacturers require products to be installed in temperatures above 40°F for warranties to remain valid. A cold-weather installation could void your warranty, leaving you unprotected if issues arise later.

7. Winter Work Takes Longer
Cold weather slows everything down. Workers need to take frequent breaks to stay warm, and shorter daylight hours limit productivity. A job that might take a day in spring could stretch to several days in winter.

When Winter Work Can’t Wait
In some cases, waiting until spring isn’t an option. If delaying repairs could lead to further damage, make sure you hire an experienced contractor who is well-versed in working under winter conditions. Discuss the precautions they’ll take to ensure a safe and effective installation. Cutting corners to accommodate the weather isn’t worth the risk.

Is It Really Worth It?
While winter projects may seem like a good idea, the risks often outweigh the benefits. Waiting for warmer weather ensures a safer, smoother, and more cost-effective process.

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 www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.