From the way we decorate to the things we do, our home is where we create and cultivate personal space (as well as share it with the ones we love). In other words, a home is a place filled with feeling! So, to make your house feel more like home, you need to help your family feel comfortable at home, both physically and emotionally.
Having a ‘home’ is not just about having pretty furniture, light fixtures, or wall art; it’s about creating an atmosphere that invites relaxation and togetherness. And if you don’t have a home that feels cozy and comfortable now, it’s never too late to change that. Here are seven ways to improve your space:
1. Add A Fireplace
It’s easy to help your family feel comfortable at home when there are ways to snuggle and get cozy together! A fireplace does exactly that. Fireplaces are generally associated with comfort, warmth, and coziness. . . and for a good reason. They can also be a beautiful focal point in any room, adding depth and a unique touch of style.
If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s in proper working order and ready for use. If it’s been a while since you’ve used it, give it a clean to ensure it’s ready to go. If you don’t have a fireplace, or if it’s just not the right fit for your home, don’t panic you can easily install an electric fireplace or even add a portable fireplace to your table!
2. Create A Designated Reading Nook
A reading nook, separate from the rest of your home, is a great way to make your family feel comfortable, cozy, and right at home. If you have kids, this is especially a good idea! A reading nook gives children a place to call their own and encourages them to read. It’s also an excellent place for all members of the family to relax.
If you have the space, you can design and create a reading nook in a corner of your home. Make the nook as cozy and comfortable as possible with a stack of pillows, blankets, and books. You can even add lighting fixtures, too.
3. Add Soft Rugs & Throw Blankets
Rugs and throw blankets are easy, budget-friendly ways to make your home cozier. And, they’re instrumental in living areas where people spend a lot of time walking around (like kitchens and living rooms) to help catch dirt and stains.
The type of fabrics and furnishings you choose for your home can make a big difference. Choose materials like wool, chenille, and velvet, which are thick, soft, and warm. Throw blankets are useful in all seasons, allowing you to switch them out according to the weather. They come in all shapes and sizes, materials, and colors so you can personalize your space with them. And, like many other elements of cozy home décor, you can easily find throw blankets and rugs online or in store for a relatively low price.
4. Bring In Bright & Natural Light
Natural light can do wonders for your home, in skylights, windows, or even low-lighting fixtures that mimic the sun’s rays (to which we’re naturally drawn). You can also bring in some light with decorative pieces, like candles and lanterns.
Blocking too much light from entering the house is also essential. If you have small children, you might consider adding blackout curtains, especially for bedrooms (aka: naptime!). These curtains can help your kids get a good night’s sleep and prevent them from waking up too early.
5. Add Plants
Plants are an easy way to bring life and coziness to your home, even if you don’t have a green thumb. There are many types of plants that are easy to care for and won’t die on you, plus you can put them in almost any room. Plants can add personality and visual interest and are a great way to make it feel more like home. They also help purify the air, giving comfort both visually and physically.
6. Install Air Filters
The indoor comfort of a family home can be greatly improved with a good air filter, as these remove harmful toxins, allergens, and odors naturally. You can install air filters in your furnace and the vents of your HVAC system. Or, you can purchase a simple, plug-in ionizer that makes a big difference in the overall feel and smell, too. Filters can be changed when they become clogged with impurities, making them a low-maintenance addition to your home.
7. Eliminate Clutter
When you declutter your home, you’re improving your family’s quality of life. If your home is cluttered or messy, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, as it’s simply too much to take in. You can’t focus on the things you want to focus on because you’re distracted by the messiness!
When it comes to decluttering, you don’t have to get rid of everything and start from scratch. Just pick a few target areas and start from there, like your living room, bedroom, and kitchen.
Embrace Your Cozy Home
Making your house feel like a home is so important. . . not only for your loved ones, but for you, too! Whether you make simple changes like adding blankets and pillows, or you dramatically shift the layout to be more conducive to family time, the intention you put behind your design, décor, and furnishings will make your space feel like a safe haven.
For other homemaking tips and tricks, head to our Home Improvement page!
Featured Image Credit: CottonBro
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