When you’ve finally found the house of your dreams, or finish building one from the ground up, the excitement and anticipation is palpable. There have been countless conversations concerning the floor plan, the location, and the budget. The wall colors have been chosen and the light fixtures installed. And then one day, the papers have been signed and you are standing in your new space now covered in boxes waiting to be unpacked, and all of the planning and dreaming has finally come to fruition. Now all that’s left is to settle in and make it your own – to make this house a true home. So what does it mean to make a house a home? How do you take the blank slate that stands before you and turn it into a place you want to be – a sanctuary to return to?
Making a house a home is ultimately an experience that is unique to each person and is a process that requires time. However, there are a few guiding principles that apply to each situation, which we will explore together today:
- Atmosphere. The atmosphere of a space is the most significant part of making it feel like “home.” These are the things that don’t necessarily grab your attention in and of themselves but work together to create the feeling that your space evokes. This involves lighting, scents, and temperature – so you’ll want to pay special attention to each of these areas! Warm and ample lighting goes a long way, with as much natural light streaming in as possible! Having a few favorite candles on hand to burn also goes a long way in creating a sense of “cozy” and familiarity.
- Furniture. Furniture is the way you frame your space. If you have existing furniture from your previous space, you are already well on your way to creating a space that feels like home. Each piece of furniture carries a story with it. The dining table has been the backdrop for countless shared moments and conversations and the couch has been a resting place where babies are cuddled and books have been read. And when it comes to choosing new furniture for your space, keep comfortability and functionality in mind, as well as style. Choose something you love, but make sure it is also inviting and comfortable, and you will be that much closer to making your house feel like a warm home.
- Textiles. Once the atmosphere and the staple furniture pieces have been established, choosing some intentional textiles can also go a long way! Think rugs that feel soft under your feet, pillows that invite you to the couch, and a throw blanket in your reading nook just asking to be snuggled in.
- Nature. Every home, regardless of its style, benefits from bringing the outdoors in! House plants bring a sense of life and grounding to a room, making it feel lived in and complete. If you are intimidated by keeping houseplants alive, go for ones that are hard to kill and low-maintenance! Snake plants and ZZ plants are great starter plants for those who want something hardy.
These four elements create the springboard for making any space feel homey and inviting, but give yourself time and space to grow into what makes your space truly feel like “yours.” I am cheering you on as we “unlock new doors” together – new places to settle into and make a home.
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