For those of us in our 30s and 40s, we’re not living the lives our parents were at our age. Our day-to-day is much less predictable – more of us are renting than ever before, we’re working remotely – and our home base needs to be more than just where we rest our heads at night. We’re making the best of all kinds of living situations, and finding ways to make those spaces functional as well as feel like home.
Here’s 3 things you can do right now to make your space feel more like home
First, stop holding your space to an unrealistic standard
Our spaces are for living in, and when they look too perfect they stop being places where we can let our guards down. No more plastic-covered couches or ‘good’ china! As much as we all love a gorgeous, aspirational Instagram shot, the reality is our lives are – and should be – focused on the more important things. Don’t worry about every last thing being perfectly matched. In fact, a bit of calculated mismatching helps ensure that if a glass breaks, replacing it won’t be a headache.
It’s also a great way to be sustainable. By mending, repairing, and using what you’ve got, you’re already on the way to maximizing the life of the things you have.
Make it personal and have some fun with it
Highlight personal or family items that tell a story about who you are. Put up a piece of art that makes you smile every time you see it, or blow up that photo you just love. The more you can incorporate your own particular story and perspective, the better. Home decor doesn’t need to be expensive, or even ‘timeless’; if it feels good, do it!
Don’t forget to bring in your other senses
Smell can have a huge factor – we love to have incense or scented candles on hand at all times. Sound too – having music be a part of your daily routine can be so soul-filling I find. Set the stage by popping on a record while you sip your coffee in the morning, or while you cook dinner. It changes the entire feeling of the moment.
Think of the moments throughout your day as little ‘vignettes’ – and use light, sound, and smell to help create the feeling you’re looking for.
Defining your space is about bringing elements of yourself into whatever space you’re in, and shaping it in a way that enhances your use and enjoyment of it. It’s adding special touches to create a unique vibe – something that’s the culmination of all the things you love.