Surviving, & Loving, Your First Rochester Winter
By Julie Ann Shahin, Interior Decorator, Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC
How to Make Your Rochester Home Cozy for Your First Northern Winter
If you’ve just moved to the Rochester area - especially if you’re coming from Florida or another warm climate - welcome! Adjusting to a northern winter is a major lifestyle change, but with a few thoughtful touches, your home can become your warmest ally.
As a local interior decorator who has lived through Rochester winters since 1989, I’ve learned that comfort here isn’t just about heat - it’s about how you design your environment to make the season cozy, inviting, and beautiful. Let’s dive into what that looks like
If you’re still defining your decorating rhythm, have a look at Master Your Interior Design Style: Five Questions to Help You Find Your Signature Look.
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Start with Heat and Routine
Your thermostat will become your best friend. A good baseline is to keep your home around 68°F during the day when people are up and moving, then lower it to about 64°F at night or when you’re away. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to match your family’s rhythm. Add a small “warm-up bump” in the early morning so you’re not shivering when you first wake.
Older homes in Rochester often have drafty windows. You can help your heating system out by opening curtains during the day to let in sunlight, then closing them at dusk to hold warmth in. Simple, cost-free habits like this add up fast over a long winter.
Consider investing in a curtain like Velvet Twill Blackout Curtain panels for extra insulation.
If you work from home, you might find your energy bill climbing, so consider using a space heater for short periods in your office rather than turning up the whole-house heat. Just make sure to use one with an automatic shutoff for safety.
How to choose & use a safe space heater
Using a space heater can be a smart way to add comfort, but it also comes with important safety considerations. First, look for built-in tip-over and overheat protection- these safeguard against accidents if the unit falls or overheats. Also ensure the model carries recognized safety certifications (UL, ETL).
Consider the type of heater based on your space and usage:
Studio/office/bedroom: a compact tabletop or oil-filled radiant model will give quiet, even warmth without dominating the room.
Living or open-concept area: a tower or whole-room model is better for distribution of heat.
Placement matters: keep the heater on a flat, stable surface, keep at least 3 feet clear around it (from curtains, furniture, bedding) and plug it directly into a wall outlet (no power strips for high-wattage units).
Finally, we always say: never leave a space heater unattended for long periods, especially overnight or when you’re out. Even the safest heater still demands respect and good placement.
If you follow these guidelines and choose a model with the right features, you get the comfort boost without paying the risk.
Top Safe Space Heaters to Consider
When choosing a space heater, safety is non‐negotiable. Look for built-in tip-over shut-off, overheat protection, stable base, and reliable certification.
Modern models like the
prove that you don’t have to sacrifice design for safety. These units deliver warmth, functionality and smart features: ideal for the kind of stylish, comfortable home you want.
Each of these picks has a strong safety profile plus ease of use (remote controls, oscillation, digital thermostats) so they’re suitable for living rooms, bedrooms or multipurpose spaces.
Tip: Place the heater on a level, hard surface, keep a clear zone of at least 3 feet around it, plug it directly into a wall outlet (no power strip), and never leave it unattended for long periods. With the right model and mindful usage, a space heater can be both cozy and safe.
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And if you’re considering more significant changes like window upgrades or insulation before winter hits, don’t miss What You Need to Know Before Starting Your Renovation.
Want that cozy fireside look? Grab mantel styling tips in 7 Ways to Decorate Traditional Christmas Mantels.
Create a Smart Entryway System
Snow, salt, and slush - three realities of Rochester life. The goal isn’t to fight them but to create a system that keeps the mess contained.
Start with a galvanized steel bucket with a lid labeled “Salt” right near your front or back door. It’s not just for your own safety - mail carriers and guests appreciate salted walkways. I keep my bucket just outside the door for easy access before each storm.
Next, place boot trays at every exterior entrance. Rubber or plastic trays catch snowmelt before it reaches your hardwood floors. If you have children or pets, this setup saves you hours of mopping and helps your floors last longer.
Add a small bench and baskets for gloves, hats, and scarves. A washable rug underfoot helps too, or get creative with layered rugs. Think of your entryway as a “transition zone” - a buffer between the outdoors and your warm interior.
Want a local touch for your winter decor journey in Rochester? My post How Does Rochester NY Celebrate the Holidays? gives insight into regional traditions and places to shop.
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Layer Your Textiles for Warmth
Designing for winter means layering textures the way you’d layer clothing. It’s both functional and decorative.
Keep throw blankets in seasonal weights - light ones for early fall, chunky knit or faux fur for deep winter. Place them in baskets near the sofa for easy access. If you work from home, dedicate one throw just for your office chair. It becomes a small comfort you’ll reach for daily.
For the bedroom, layering is essential. Try a cotton blanket under your duvet, then add a quilt or heavier throw at the foot of the bed. You’ll have options depending on the night’s chill.
And don’t forget the floors. Area rugs in high-traffic areas or beside beds prevent cold feet and make spaces feel grounded and inviting. Choose dense weaves like wool or jute for insulation.
When the nights grow long and your bedroom needs extra warmth, check out my post 50+ Easy Ways to Add Christmas Cheer to Your Bedroom for ideas on layered bedding, lighting, and seasonal comfort.
Make Lighting Work for You
One of the biggest surprises for newcomers is how early it gets dark. By late December, sunset can be around 4:30 p.m. - which can feel a bit gloomy if you’re not used to it.
The key is layered, warm lighting. Swap out cool “daylight” bulbs for 2700K–3000K “warm white” ones. Add lamps to corners that feel shadowy, and if possible, use dimmers to soften brightness at night.
Candles and diffusers help, too. Scents like vanilla, cedarwood, and clove create warmth without heat. They’re especially helpful if you miss that southern evening air that smells like jasmine or saltwater - winter scents can anchor you here in a new, comforting way.
For a little seasonal magic, plan your holiday lighting early. Many locals hire professionals for outdoor lights, but even simple window candles or a few strands of soft white string lights indoors can make long evenings feel gentler.
If you enjoy driving around to see neighborhood displays, add Endicar Drive in Irondequoit to your list - local news outlets share maps of the best light displays every December.
Even though it’s early in the year, you can carry seasonal décor flair into winter-months with tips from You Don’t Need to Be Tacky to Decorate for St. Patrick’s Day.
Keep Warm Air In, and Cold Air Out
Small details make a big impact when it comes to warmth.
Thermal or lined curtains add insulation around drafty windows.
Draft stoppers (or “door snakes”) at the bottom of older doors block leaks.
A humidifier keeps the air comfortable and prevents dry skin - and it’s great for maintaining wood furniture or musical instruments.
If your home has a fireplace, consider converting it to a gas insert for efficiency and ease. A crackling fire (even a simulated one) adds instant warmth and ambiance.
And yes, consider a generator or whole-home generator if you plan to stay long-term. Power outages here aren’t constant, but they do happen - and being prepared gives you peace of mind.
If you’re planning a cozy winter gathering, don’t miss my post 300 Unique Galentine’s Day Party Ideas for friendly, festive décor inspiration.
Comfort in Everyday Living
Winter changes your routines, so small comforts go a long way. Keep slippers or house shoes by every exterior door to protect floors and keep feet warm. Establish a “hot beverage station” - a small area with tea, coffee, or cocoa supplies - so you can easily make something warm on cold afternoons.
If you have space, create a cozy reading corner. Position a chair by a window, add a side table, lamp, and warm blanket, and make it your retreat when the snow is falling. These small design moments turn winter days into opportunities for rest and reflection.
For calming colour and texture ideas, I recommend Secrets of Serenity: Creating a Calming Cream & Green Living Room Retreat with AI.
A Touch of Greenery
One of the simplest ways to keep spirits up through Rochester’s gray months is to bring a little life indoors. Houseplants like pothos, snake plants, or ZZ plants require minimal care but offer big mood benefits. Their greenery softens winter’s starkness and helps clean the indoor air, which gets dry from constant heating.
If plants aren’t your thing, a vase of winter greens or eucalyptus adds the same effect and subtle fragrance.
And if exterior lighting or tree shopping is on your list, take a look at The Best Places to Buy Romantic Christmas Trees for favorites and romantic decorating ideas.
Embrace the Season
A Rochester winter can seem intimidating at first - but when your home is set up to support warmth, comfort, and beauty, it becomes something else entirely. There’s a certain stillness here that encourages you to slow down, enjoy family dinners, and find comfort in small rituals - lighting a candle, making cocoa, or wrapping up in a favorite throw.
Designing for this season isn’t just about surviving - it’s about thriving. It’s about creating a space that feels like a refuge, one that welcomes you home every time you step in from the cold.
So welcome to Irondequoit, welcome to Rochester, and welcome to winter. With a few thoughtful changes, you might find that the season becomes one of your favorites after all.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I keep my house cozy during a Rochester, NY winter?
To keep your house cozy in a Rochester winter, focus on layered warmth. Use thermal curtains, area rugs, and soft throw blankets. Keep your thermostat near 68°F by day and 64°F at night. Add warm lighting (2700–3000K bulbs) and a humidifier to maintain comfort and prevent dry air.
2. What should I do to prepare my home for my first northern winter?
Prepare your home by sealing drafts, adding lined curtains, stocking sidewalk salt, and keeping a boot tray at each entry. Check your furnace filter, schedule a maintenance tune-up, and consider a generator for outages. Layer your bedding, keep slippers handy, and switch to cozy, insulating décor for comfort.
3. How can I decorate my home to stay warm and comfortable in winter?
Decorate with warmth in mind: choose thick textures like faux fur, wool, or chunky knits. Layer rugs on hard floors, add warm-white lighting, and include candles or diffusers with cozy scents. Use rich, deep colors and plush textiles to make living spaces feel inviting on cold, gray days.
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4. What are the best interior design tips for surviving a cold Rochester winter?
For a Rochester winter, design with insulation and atmosphere. Thermal curtains block drafts, while soft lighting and layered textiles add comfort. Keep entryways organized with boot trays and salt buckets. Introduce greenery and scent - plants, cedar, and vanilla - so your home feels lively and welcoming all season long.
5. How do newcomers from the South adjust to living through winter in upstate New York?
Southerners adjust best by embracing indoor coziness and preparation. Dress in layers, heat rooms efficiently, and make home your retreat with warm lighting, blankets, and hot beverages. Learn to enjoy the slower pace - watch the snowfall, light candles, and see winter as a chance to rest and recharge.
About the Author
Julie Ann Shahin is an interior decorator and owner of Julie Ann Rachelle Interiors LLC, based in Rochester, NY. She specializes in helping newcomers and lifelong residents alike create warm, functional, and beautiful homes that reflect their lifestyle and well-being.
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Moving to Rochester from a warmer climate can make your first winter feel like a whole new world. But with a few thoughtful design choices, your home can become your greatest source of warmth and comfort. From layering textiles and adjusting lighting to organizing your entryway and protecting your floors, local interior decorator Julie Ann Shahin shares practical, decorator-approved ways to make your home truly cozy. Learn how to turn cold weather into a season of calm, comfort, and beauty.