7 Tips for Making a House a Home

What is your first thought when you walk in the door of your home?

Do you take a sigh of relief, grateful to be in the place you find peace and respite? Or, do you wince because you have “so much to do?” Where you live should be your sanctuary, a place in which you feel joy and comfort. Whether you live in a high-rise condo, a small apartment, a dorm or a single-family unit, we all need a place to call “home.”

Here are 7 simple ideas to help you create a space you can look forward to, turning your frown upside down when you come home from a long day at the office.

Decorate with Purpose

Instead of buying a bunch of random junk to fill your shelves, decorate with fewer, more subdued objects that reflect your personal style. There is no right or wrong when it comes to collecting things which conjure fond memories. Surround yourself with meaningful things which have a sense of history or remind you of a special time.

Lighting

A few well-placed lamps can add warmth to your space. They are both practical and decorative, casting a beautiful light in the room rather than harsh overheads which can often appear bright and invasive. Consider a floor lamp and a couple of reading lamps, strategically placed to cast a glow or give you ample reading light or use dimmers on overhead lights to control the brightness.

Quality Kitchen Supplies

Nothing is worse than reaching for a simple kitchen tool or a particular pot and not being able to find it. Go through your cabinets and drawers and make a list of what you need to make healthy cooking a breeze. You will feel empowered to create simple, easy meals instead of ordering out and dining on fast food. When possible, splurge on good quality – from spatulas to pans and kitchen knives.

Books

Marcus Tullius Cicero said, “A room without books is like a body without a soul.” A room with a few books on a shelf or a cocktail table adds interest and makes the room feel inviting and friendly. I personally collect pretty journals and use them to make daily to-do lists. I also love to make special notes inside of my books, which I feel often add character to the pages. For many people, reading is easier on a device. However, nothing can take the place of a beautifully worn book. Your selections are a reflection of your personal taste and interest.

Artwork

Unique art is irreplaceable. You can spend a fortune on a piece of art or frame your child’s handy work. Whatever you choose, make sure it makes you smile every time you lay eyes on it. The goal is to enjoy what is hanging on your walls, sitting on your coffee table or displayed on a shelf. Avoid overdoing it, rather have a few pieces that make a statement and don’t get lost in the clutter. Keep the frames simple and let the artwork do the talking. Find affordable and distinct pieces at yard sales, starving artist shows, when traveling and online. There are no right or wrong places to purchase something you love.

Good Scents and Fresh Air

Certain fragrances can elicit a variety of emotions and moods, some giving you the burst of energy for evening chores or the calm to relax and unwind before bed. Light a soy candle, pour yourself a cup of tea or glass of your favorite beverage and enjoy a few minutes of peace before starting dinner or throwing a load of clothes into the wash. When possible, open up a window and let the fresh air in. Airing out your home helps eliminate residual odors from cooking, cleaning products and household pets, allowing your candles to fill the space more efficiently.

Live in It

Your home shouldn’t act as a storage unit for elaborate decorations or items no one can touch or enjoy. It’s much more appealing to sit and appreciate a conversation with a friend on a comfy old sofa, drinking from beautiful glassware or a paper cup. When you are worried about something getting soiled or ruined, you lose the magic of the moment. Make it a point to use your fancy dishes, light your special candles, drink your expensive whiskey or wine, use your linen cocktail napkins and appreciate all of the adornments and creature comforts of your home.

You may also like 10 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Autumn. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on HuffPost, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.