Now more than ever, our homes are a place serving more purpose than simply providing shelter. As we have spent more time at home in the past 6 months than many of us ever have before, and the distractions of the early pandemic have fallen away (have you reached the end of Netflix too?!), many of us are examining the places we call home in a new light.
Home now more than ever is a sanctuary: A place to be safe, rejuvenate, and feel inspired.
Home is more than four walls & a roof. Photo credit: Paige Cody, Unsplash.com
One thing that has become very apparent in 2020 is that a lot of people out there are re-examining life: what they spend their hours doing, where they are doing it, and with whom. As a human being living during this time, we can all agree that 2020 has been a year of surprises, unpredictable events, and self-reflection. I’ve seen it in clients from all over the country looking at where they call home and reconsidering what is necessary in their lives. No one has all the answers and no once can predict the future, yet, amid all of the uncertainty, one of the things we can control is our own home and the environment it fosters.
Judging by the demand for home improvement products & the long wait for trades, the focus on HOME is front and centre. I want to take it one step further and challenge you to be thoughtful about your current space. I want to challenge you to elevate your space by furnishing it with intention and consideration.
I want to challenge you to elevate your space by furnishing it with intention and consideration.
Be brave, be bold - be yourself.
The process of designing a home can be formulaic, and that is fine (paint colour + cabinets + flooring = done!). While aesthetically beautiful finishes are lovely (and yes, contribute to overall market value), consider augmenting those elements with an even more personal, meaningful and intentional approach to design and decor. Don’t be afraid to look at all the possibilities...the infusion of personality and style. This is where your space comes alive: The creation of a soulful home.
Augmenting decor need not be complex! Add texture - pillows & throws - to create an inviting place to curl up. Photo credit: Stephanie Harvey, Unsplash.com
Laundry and fun? Just add wallpaper! Photo credit: HGTV.com
Wouldn’t it be nice to add a little something that sparks a memory every time you walk down the hall to do the mundane tasks of everyday life? For example in the hall to the laundry, add a gallery wall of your favourite family vacation memories...or even better...a bunch of silly photos of your kids to remember why you love them as you are doing the 10th load of laundry that week. Or add a cozy corner in a little-used spot, with the perfect reading chair and a beautiful throw that begs to be touched and snuggled at the end of a long day. Or what about a quirky wallpaper lining a closet, offering a cheerful surprise when you open the door? It’s about layers, uniqueness and inspiration. What do you love? What catches your eye? How can you incorporate that into your home so it becomes part of your daily life? Don’t be afraid to be a bit bold!
Our lives have changed, and it’s up to us to choose if we feel confined and trapped, or inspired and supported by the space in which we spend most of our time. Why not use this time to create a place that inspires and makes you feel uplifted and connected? It doesn’t need to break the bank either - paint and a collection of your favourite photos or items, thoughtfully displayed goes a long way. Get creative, take a risk, and most importantly, be yourself! Make these changes because they feel GOOD!
What does your soulful home look like? Have you added something new to your home that you are excited about? Please share below!
Let’s inspire each other.
