How Decorators Enhance a Home for Winter: Real Example

In this house in a provincial town of Kumo on the west coast of Finland, there used to be a family farm. The 220 square meter area was more than enough for living and selling homemade products — this was common in the 1940s.

In the 1960s, farmers began moving away, and soon after, these empty houses were put up for sale. Six years ago, the Emilia Ruuskanen family bought one of these former farmhouses to restore and live in.

It's amusing that Emilia’s mother once bought milk in this very house, so purchasing it can be seen as part of the current owner's family history.

Along with Emilia, her husband, two children, and a pair of cats live in the house. By profession, Emilia is an interior designer. She works from home, and her workspace is located right on the kitchen.

Preparing her home for the holidays, Emilia started by creating a warm winter atmosphere: she pulled out soft throws and fluffy fur garments made locally. Cozy winter textiles can be draped over armchairs, chairs, and sofas. According to the designer, changing cushions and textiles is the easiest way to transform an entire interior.

Emilia decided to replace the general lighting with decorative elements — candles in ornate candleholders. Wreaths made of pine branches and eucalyptus, a traditional element in any European holiday interior, are woven by Emilia herself with her children.

However, the highlight of the interior were white hyacinths. The homeowner adores them and considers them an excellent alternative to typical Christmas poinsettias, though she is not opposed to the latter either. "Plants in pots and cut flowers create a mood and special atmosphere at home," says Emilia.