Designed for day-to-day dining and relaxed lounging, these wonderful breakfast nooks feature bright windows, convenient built-in seating, and an ambience that makes them appealing any time of day.

The antidote to chilly winter weather? Slow activities like curling up indoors and staying warm by a fireplace, or taking a long, luxurious bath. There are also design elements that can help create cozy surroundings to provide maximum comfort when temperatures drop. Here are a few ways to set the mood for coziness.

From Connecticut to California, these five estates feature striking fireplaces that—whether surrounded by stalwart stonework or part of a classic East Coast aesthetic—provide warmth, charm, and style.

Imagine, if you will, the perfect winter home. What does it look like? Is it a classic colonial with a foot of snow on the roof and smoke spiralling from the chimney? Perhaps the interior is crisp and bright, with sunshine streaming through the windows, blankets to warm cold toes, and a hot drink steaming on the stove. With a few thoughtful touches, any home can feel welcoming and warm, despite the chill outside.

It’s that time of year again—time to say hello to luxurious throws, steaming hot chocolate, cozy rustic decor, and rich, warm colour palettes. It’s also time to embrace hygge, the Scandinavian concept of taking pleasure in life’s simple joys, like the presence of gentle and comfortable things.