Thank goodness creatives around the globe share holiday decorated spaces each year so we may return to them for inspiration. These Cozy Rustic Winter Cottage Moments inspire with earthy yet elegant vignettes, ideas for DIY, and rustic winter holiday decor wonder.
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Rustic Winter Cottage Earthy Holiday Inspiration
Fantasy Mountain Retreat in Yellowstone
I’ll never forget when I picked up a copy of Elle Decor years ago and discovered this guesthouse holiday project by Ken Fulk! So much high end luxurious mountain chic!
I remember being awed by some of the sources for design elements that ranged from high to very low (i.e. the ottomans may have been found at Costco).
And even though we may not ever have access to this level of luxurious architecture and earthy grandeur in the mountains, I think there are still design takeaways that we may absorb and apply to our own schemes.
For example, this bunk room below reminds me that we have a sweet little handmade from wood children’s table and chairs that both our sons used during their entire childhood. Shouldn’t I bring that out during the holidays and style it?
And what if I became more mindful about making time for a wintry bonfire outside with our simple firepit (no outdoor fireplace here)?
Have a chandelier you could dress with little bits of evergreen branches (I’m thinking of boxwood sprigs from the yard) or faux berries?
And while there will be no taxidermy here for the holidays, I’m noticing how cheerful white blooms look with the greenery.
A faux fur throw and simple garland draped near a bed may be all that’s needed for rustic cabin cozy vibes.
Rustic Winter Cottage Ideas
Fresh Evergreens & Brown Paper Packages
Take a peek around your yard – even rosemary, boxwood sprigs or magnolia leaves would be beautiful too.
Cinnamon sticks and star anise are lovely too.
Berry Simplicity
A pop of red from cheerful berries on a spare and quite neutral table delights.
Beautiful Birch Embellishments
They’re beautiful on a tree as-is but also perfect to simply embellish gifts and holiday place settings.
I’m still tweaking my faux fireplace (snagged on FB marketplace) in a guest bedroom, but if you are craving fireplace cozy vibes, what about this? A faux birch log arrangement which could work in the simplest of DIY faux fireplace boxes. Such a clean look.
Book Page DIY Wonder
Big fan of all things book page craft! Remember our former kitchen with simple cottagey Christmas touches?
Ever make paper cone wreaths?
So many places you can hang them. I need to make more!
So many variations!
I have always dreamed of having a plate rack like this…how ’bout you? At least we can make the simple cones!
Candle Spinner
I remember having these at home as a child when my folks always decorated with Scandinavian style.
Put This on the Stove for Instant Charm
Don’t you love it when decoration has a purpose and may even get use daily?
7. Minimal Modern Hoop Wreath DIY
You’ve got to love a timeless Scandi style hoop wreath that will not seem dated years from now!
Whimsical Birch Trees
I love the playfulness and childlike vibe of these wonky trees.
Cozy Glowing Advent Calendar
I love my galvanized, house-shaped advent calendar and look forward to bringing it out each year. But a house-shaped calendar that is also cozily lit? Precious.
Decorate With Citrus & Sweets
Decorating with food is always a great idea: platters of gingerbread cookies, frosted cakes on pedestals, bowls of pears or green apples, and of course, pomanders!
See scrumptious inspiration with citrus Scandi magic in THIS!
Remember you don’t have to be a baker…you can decorate store bought cookies too!
My favorite readymade cookies to decorate? The Swedish ones on this board that come in a tin you’ll want to save:
Jingle All the Way
Christmas bells are so traditional and work so well with earthy rustic cozy holiday schemes.
Table for Two
Why aren’t we all doing this all winter long? Set a wee table for two for dinner with candles, a simple earthy touch, and even a wrinkly tablecloth for complete ease if you’re short on time.
With the sun setting so early, why not celebrate it with cozy candle lit dining every single dang night?
Moss + Candle for Organic Cozy
Tuck moss into simple glass jars or zinc planters to support taper candles. Boom.
Reindeer Silhouettes
They work well in more is more rooms as well as with minimal designs where they can become a focal point.
Aren’t these “soft sculptures” beyond special?
Mini Trees
For some, it’s colorful pops and sparkling everything, but for me quietly understated neutrals on a tree speak volumes.
Simplicity of Clear Glass Jars
If you recall, I have a problem with saving every clear glass jar (pasta sauce, olives, etc) so there’s never a shortage of them for lining a window sill or outdoor porch with them. Tuck votives inside all winter. Sometimes I’ll even cushion a votive with white sugar for the suggestion of snow.
Showcase a Lovely Branch
Instead of tossing it in a vase or urn, try placing a pretty branch on the wall for a very natural and non-contrived look.
Let’s Make Cardamom Buns, Hun!
I can smell them baking now!
Cozy Recipes for Cozy Toasty Nights
No, these are not showing up in my tumbler this holiday season. My cranky panky is never in the mood for alcohol, but if you can enjoy it…
Discover a Nordic Artist
If you know Sweden’s Jonna Jinton, then you KNOW. She is an artist inspired by the loveliness of her environment. (Who knew ice makes sounds like this!?!)
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
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