8 Ways to make your home feel good
We all want our homes to feel good, but with so many decisions to make, it’s unsurprising that 56% of Brits aren’t happy with their living room layout - and 36% aren’t even sure what the problem is. Our research uncovered the 8 biggest mistakes we’re making with our decor - and now, here are our tried-and-tested simple solutions to help you solve them, with expert help from Pippa Jameson, author of The Sensory Home.
1. Protect against noise pollution
How you place your furniture can help to reduce noise coming into your peaceful space! A full bookcase against the wall nearest a noisy neighbor can help to muffle the sound - as can chunky rugs for those with loud neighbors below.
2. Be a trendsetter, not follower
Trends are great for inspiration, but often those we see on social media or in magazines aren’t practical in many homes. Don’t lose sight of what works in your home - try unconventional furniture placements, mix and match your pieces, and always remember: it’s about making your space work for you.
3. Think about your body
Your first thought might be to choose a sofa based on style, but making choices based on our comfort needs is much more important. A soft chair won’t help with back problems, so choose something with extra support - and for those who love to lounge, a recliner or chaise end sofa will make it easy.
4. Create a scentscape
Don’t overlook your sense of smell - it has the ability to evoke really powerful memories. Please your nose with natural diffusers or botanical options, rather than synthetic air fresheners, as the latter can have a negative affect on clean air quality.
5. Make it about you
This is your space, so above all else, make it work for your lifestyle. Creating a separate space for personal time that allows you to enjoy your hobbies is key - perhaps an open space to easily roll out your yoga mat, or a comfy chair where you can curl up with a book, or listen to your favourite music.
6. Sentiment in sight
You probably already have art, photos and mementoes in your space that bring you happiness - but are they in the right spot? Ensuring these happy triggers are at eyeline when you’re in your favourite chair, as well as standing up, will make them much more powerful, whatever you’re doing.
7. Layer your lighting
Flexible lighting options are key to help your space adapt to different times of day and activities. Side lamps, floor lamps and dimmable switches can all help to set the mood - or take it up a notch with sensory coloured lighting. Pinks and purples can be calming, but having lighting you can alter throughout the day is key here - as are the colour of your walls, which can make or break the effect.
8. Choose harmonious materials
Contrast between different materials can actually feel quite jarring and is difficult to get right. Instead, consider investing in natural materials like wool, rattan and stone to ensure your furniture and accessories all work harmoniously together.
