Turning the atrium into an all-weather escape for reading and working out. A boost for mind and body through those long winter months. Part II

We’re getting there. Bringing the atrium to life is fun. I replaced the brass wall sconces with simple two-tiered linen sconces that I found online at a great sale price. Then we hung the tryptic canvas. It’s a work by a Ukrainian artist named Albina Bratcheva. And the two garden statues are getting the attention they deserve after standing out on the patio for the last thirty years.

Trim: Whipped by Clare Paint. Walls: On Point by Clare Paint. Canvas tryptic: Honeycomb by Albina Bratcheva (iCanvas.com). Wall sconces: Cebron 2 Steel Flush Mounted Sconce by Wade Logan (wayfair.com). Vintage wicker pouf ottomans by IKEA.

I’d like the atrium to do double duty as a place to read and relax under natural light—a mood-saver during the long months of winter—and also as a place to exercise during those long, cold months. A place to exercise in any weather is a weapon to fight flagging spirits and low energy. But regular aerobic exercise is also critical to our brain health and overall physical health. I don’t know about you, but I want to do more than thrive today. I’m also looking for tools to stay “sharp as a tack” and age happily in place in the years to come. So regular exercise has to be key to my routine now. Once we lay down the rug, my yoga mats and stretch bands, hand weights, Ab-Doer, and rowing machine will be coming to the atrium, too.

I found a gorgeous beige togo-like sofa in microsuede to sit under the tryptic. The price was reasonable—far less than the price of an authentic togo—and according to reviews and photos, the quality is high. Delivery will be in a few days. Yay! The sofa may be my new favorite place to hang out and read.

STILL TO COME… The right rug, furniture, and workout equipment turns the atrium into a room that takes care of brain and body under year-round natural light.