Creating a home that makes you happy is simple, yet effective. Here is how you can make your home more welcoming, organized, and comfortable through prompts, afternoon projects, and mindful design and organization.
Natural Light
Besides giving you more energy and boosting your mood, natural light will also reduce your energy bills and make everything in the room look better. For example, a study of office workers found that those with more exposure to natural light slept better and were less likely to experience mood changes. In addition, natural light is more safe than fluorescent bulbs.
Houseplants
Aside from adding color and a sense of nature to your home, houseplants also purify the air. NASA has released a study that shows the benefits of houseplants for the air. The study includes caveats, but it does indicate that plants can improve our mood and reduce toxins in the air. They also improve productivity, and some people find that having a live plant in the bedroom encourages a deeper sleep.
Before placing a houseplant, make sure to pay attention to the condition of the soil. Some houseplants prefer a moist environment while others thrive in the sunshine. If your plants have different watering needs, group them together. Depending on the type of plant, you can use a finger test to determine the right amount of water. In general, you should water your plants when the top two inches of soil are dry. You can also buy a moisture meter online or at your local garden center.
Interior Planning
The layout of interior spaces has a huge impact on how we live in them. Rooms with a practical layout make living easier and more pleasant. Conversely, rooms with a poorly planned layout can become frustrating. The first step to perfecting your room plan is to take inventory of your current home. Take a look at your furniture and see where you can place items in order to encourage conversation and interaction.
Using Color
Color is a great way to express yourself and improve your mood. Bright colors are cheerful and uplifting. But too much of a good thing can be overwhelming, so using color in small doses is key. Using color in your home can make a big difference.
Research has shown that colors can make people feel calm and cozier. However, only a small percentage of people associate a good design with feelings of productivity and energy. To combat stress and anxiety, consider incorporating calming colors and soft elements into your home.
Creating a Soothing Environment
You can create a soothing environment in your home through the use of simple, inexpensive design hacks. For example, make sure that your kitchen table has an extra prep space and is clutter-free. This will allow you and your family to work together and be comfortable. Place a bowl of fresh fruit or a vase of flowers next to the sink, or even plant a few herbs. You should also keep a cookbook close at hand, so that you can whip up something quick and easy.