A Winter Refresh: Let's Clear the Confetti

I woke up on New Year’s Day to a house full of confetti.

It was everywhere — across the floors, tucked into corners, lingering on tabletops. A reminder of celebration, of a fun night, of a year turning over. But as the morning went on and the sunlight started pouring in, that confetti also became a signal.

It made me want to reset.

I wanted to clear the confetti from the night before, open the windows, let the light in, and start the year with a space that felt calm, clean, and intentional. Not a dramatic change — just a quiet refresh that made everything feel lighter and more aligned.

That moment at home set the tone for how I started thinking about winter, the new year, and our spaces overall.


Starting With Light
The first thing I always focus on during a refresh is light.
In the winter months, natural light feels especially important. I pulled back curtains, cleared surfaces, wiped things down, and tried to remove anything that felt visually heavy. The more open and bright the space became, the more grounded it felt.
That same instinct followed me straight into the shop.


Resetting the Shop
At La Storia, we took down the holiday decorations and immediately felt that familiar in-between moment — when a space is cleared, but not yet filled again. Boxes of new product were stacked and waiting, and as we started opening them, we became very aware of how important restraint is.

We wanted a clean, quiet palette. Something light and neutral that would allow the product — the materials, textures, and craftsmanship — to stand out without distraction. Just like at home, the goal wasn’t emptiness, but clarity.

That naturally led us back to one of the most powerful design tools: paint. We used Sherwin Williams Pure White in the shop, and that color created the perfect backdrop for our winter refresh.


Choosing The Right White
White paint can completely change how a space feels — but not all whites are the same.

When I’m refreshing a space, I lean toward whites that feel bright but not cold, and warm without feeling heavy. A few favorites I return to again and again:

• Sherwin Williams Pure White — clean, balanced, and incredibly versatile
• Sherwin Williams Alabaster — soft and warm, perfect for creating comfort, my go-to favorite white for cabinetry
• Benjamin Moore Simply White — bright, timeless, and full of light

Once the palette is light and calm, the space is ready for the next layer.


Adding Warmth Through Texture
A light palette only works when it’s balanced with texture.
This is where pillows, blankets, and soft furnishings make all the difference. These elements bring warmth, comfort, and depth without overwhelming the space. I gravitate toward natural materials — linen, cotton, wool — and subtle weaves that add interest while keeping things visually calm.

In winter especially, these layers help a space feel inviting rather than stark. Light doesn’t have to mean cold.
(Here I’ll share a few favorite pillow combinations — each one chosen to add softness and texture while keeping the palette clean.)


Why A Refesh Matters
A winter refresh isn’t about chasing trends or creating something perfect. It’s about creating alignment.

When your surroundings feel clear and intentional, it impacts how you start your day and how you move through your home. Clearing out what no longer serves you - even small things - makes room for what’s next.

At La Storia, we believe design should support how you want to feel in your space. Whether that’s a full redesign, an small refresh, or simply introducing a few thoughtful elements throughout your home, a seasonal reset can be incredibly grounding.

For me, it all started with a house full of confetti - and the desire for a clean slate.

Here’s to a fresh start, a lighter home, and a year that feels intentional from the very beginning.
xoxo, Maria