One of the things I love best about our Observatory Park home is that it is a gathering spot—not just for traditional celebrations like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but also for potluck dinners with friends or grab-a-cup-of-tea visits with my mom. I smile when people we love forget to ring the doorbell, wander in, and make their way to the kitchen for coffee or a beer and conversation.

These get-togethers happen year-round, of course, but in winter, they feel especially meaningful—perhaps because this time of year requires a little more effort to trek through the neighborhood or across town. (I’m looking at you, fellow parents of young children.) And while I’m pretty sure our guests come to see us, I try to add a few festive and cozy touches to our home when the temps fall.

5280 Home Winter 2015
More From The Issue

Luckily, this issue has given me plenty of inspiration for my seasonal decorating. Floral designer Jil Schlisner shares her best ideas for front door decor to wow guests in “All The Trimmings.” We look at the red-hot popularity of copper accessories in “Pretty Penny” and get designers’ top picks for living room paint colors in “Paint Like A Pro.” And in each of our feature stories, we uncover easy and beautiful ideas for amping up a room’s cozy factor—no matter your style.

As you hunker down on these chilly days, I hope you find good company in this issue and—more important—in the people you welcome into your home.

This article was originally published in 5280 Home Winter 2015.
Hilary Masell Oswald
Hilary Masell Oswald
As the former editor for two of 5280’s ancillary publications, Hilary Masell Oswald split her time between the vibrant design-and-architecture scene in the metro area for 5280 Home and the always-changing field of health for the annual 5280 Health.