How can I help dough rise in a cold kitchen?

The answer

Put the covered dough in a gently warm, draft-free spot, such as an oven that is switched off with only the light on. A sheltered place near a warm appliance, or a pan of hot water on a lower shelf, also works. Make sure the surroundings stay well below the 120°F (49°C) level at which yeast is at risk. You can also use water at the warmer end of lukewarm when mixing. If you use the oven, leave a note so nobody switches it on with the dough inside.