Designing for Happiness At Home
We could gush over Pinterest + Insta photos alllll day, but when it comes to the space you live in, there's so much more to it... than bajillions of shiny new distractions. Remember, around Elegant Simplicity we say, “Design isn’t about replication, it’s about inspiration.”
So. How do you design for happiness at home? Well, we thought you’d never ask… Here are several tips, strategies + considerations for bringing joy + happiness into your space... the happy-dance, completely addicted, is-this-real-life kind.
Let’s dive in… :)
Declutter + Organize Your Space
Before you start designing for happiness, it's important to start with a clean slate. Clutter can create chaos and stress in our homes. Start by getting rid of items that no longer serve you or that you haven't used in awhile. You can recycle, donate or sell them to make room for not just “new” things but “better” things. Things in your home that further empower you to reach your higher self.
And of course, you not only want to declutter but you want to organize your home. We’ve written all about how organizing impacts our physical, mental, and emotional health. Simply by considering new organizing systems + setting up storage solutions that work with your habits + routines you will be well on your way to designing + organizing for happiness at home.
Surround Yourself With Things You Love
Put on display the things that make you happy. Pieces of art, photographs, or other mementos that uplift you. It's important to consider the emotional impact of the items you choose to display when curating your home. These things can serve as reminders of happy memories and experiences, and can help create a sense of comfort and familiarity in your space.
Grouping objects on shelves or walls is one method of exposition. Alternatively, you could use a large piece of art or a one-of-a-kind sculpture as a showpiece to draw the eye.
Select Colors Wisely
Color plays a huuuuuge role in how you feel about your space, but also how you feel IN your space. If you want a home that brings you joy, take some time to discover which colors keep you crushing long-time.
The study of color psychology has shown that it can have a significant impact on our feelings. When you want to induce a state of calm and relaxation, choosing colors like blue and green is a good place to start. Walls, furniture, and other decorative items can all benefit from introducing color into your space.
Beige and white are two examples of colors that are considered neutral and can be used to help create an atmosphere that is relaxing. They offer a blank canvas that can thus be easily personalized by adding splashes or as we say, “pops of color” in the form of accent pieces or artwork.
Space Planning that Works for You + Your Family
Real talk, you simply can’t get into your happy zone if you’re stubbing toes on the coffee table every morning *yikes!*
When it comes to little inconveniences, it’s easy to push them aside. They’re not the end of the world, right? BUT, happiness is an “inside job”. Once you recognize how you’re interacting (or fighting) with your space, you can pour some creative juice into some solutions!
At Elegant Simplicity, we’re all about considering what activities happen in your home + determining a layout for a space based upon those routines + habits. If you’re doing this alone, think not merely about what would be in a living room typically but how “you” actually use your living room. Does it need a space for watching tv, a place for putting cups down, a spot to store extra blankets or pillows? For everyone, this is a little different — even if, we’re all a little alike *wink*
Consider The Textures
Texture does SO much for dialing-up the mood + creating a mind blowing space! Once you determine how you want your space to feel + what you want others to emotionally connect with when they're in the space, now we can add not only color but also texture to the space to further embody the emotionality we’re after.
Dreaming of a home full of warm-fuzzies you can really sink into? Play up a variety of soft textiles, like wool, cashmere, shag, or knit.
Craving a relaxing, retreat-away-from home that gives you all the feels? Add some items made from natural materials, like wicker, rattan, raffia, or jute.
These are two ways that introduce how texture plays a huge role in designing for happiness at home.
Lighting that Brightens Up Your Mood
Lighting can seduce you, entice you, or… put you right to sleep! Crazy to think but it’s really THAT powerful, my friend.
That’s why it’s so important to find the right lighting that brings you joy.
Look at the lighting in your space to see how it's affecting your daily activities. Switching out a bulb or two can stop the snooze-fest and have you throwing confetti or taking a pleasure break instead. It’s up to you. ;)
Remember that Less is More
No doubt about it, the "less is more" rule applies to your happiest home. Even if your home is organized, an over-crowded space does not make a happy soul.
Are there any items in your home that your family could happily live without? (Yes, even if they were gifts!) If so, consider finding those items new + happier home homes. You'll benefit from spacious freedom and the joy of giving. Win-win!
Create a Technology-Free Zone
No secrets here — replacing technology time with family time is comfort food for the soul.
The easiest way to unplug from our devices these days (because, let's be honest, it's hard) is to create a designated tech-free space.
Some ideas… you could fill the space with books, games, creative activities, and best of all, furniture you + your family can sink into with ooey-gooey pleasure.
Harness the Emotional Impact of Your Favorite Scents
We use all of our senses when living in our homes, so why not put a little intention behind one of the most powerful ones — scent!
*Ahem* ...shopping break!
Treat yourself to a field trip of your favorite candle or home scents stores, and find some aromas that make your nose + soul tingle with joy!
Add them to your home and you’re one step closer to that dreamy, head-in-the-clouds space.
Use Greenery to Liven Things Up
Here’s another underestimated way to bring some joy to your space... plants! A little life + a splash of vibrant green = healing, liveliness + joy for the soul. Really, it’s a fact. ;)
Now, if you’re thinking, “Sherri, I curse every plant I touch!” there’s still hope for you, my friend.
Faux plants are just as effective joy-bringers + I’ve seen some that are so well-made they’ll have
you looking twice.
Have no fear — go for it!
Andddd that’s a lot of ways to bring joy into your home, amiright?
Remember too, your to-die-for home isn’t going to happen in a day. To get gorgeous success, I suggest you focus on one tip at a time + have a total, all-out blast with it.
Now that’s the joyful home you deserve!
And don’t forget, if you’re in the preliminary planning stages of your next project, let’s chat.
P.S. If you loved this article then you’re going to really enjoy the4 Days To A More Beautiful + Functional Home.