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Creating a Space that Feels like Home

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Bianca Gardner Student Contributor, St. Bonaventure University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SBU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

A home isn’t just a building with four walls; it’s a space where we find comfort, relaxation, and a sense of belonging. Whether you’re moving into a new place, redecorating your current home, or simply want to make your living area feel more inviting, it’s the personal touches that transform a house into a true home. Here are some simple ways to create a space that feels like your very own sanctuary.

Incorporate Personal Touches

One of the easiest ways to make any space feel like home is by incorporating elements that reflect your personality. This can include photographs of loved ones, artwork that inspires you, or souvenirs from your travels. Personal items instantly create a sense of connection to the space, allowing you to feel more at ease.

Family heirlooms, mementos, and handmade pieces can also tell a story about who you are and where you’ve been. The memories attached to these items infuse the space with warmth and significance, making it feel uniquely yours.

Use Comfortable Furniture

Furniture is essential for comfort, but it’s also a great way to make your space feel like home. Invest in pieces that not only fit your aesthetic but also make you feel comfortable. Whether it’s a cozy couch, a favorite armchair, or a plush rug, the goal is to create a space that invites relaxation and encourages you to unwind.

Consider how you use each piece of furniture. For example, if you love to entertain, a spacious dining table can help create a welcoming atmosphere. If you spend a lot of time reading or watching movies, make sure to have comfortable seating that supports your activities.

Play with Lighting

Lighting can make or break the atmosphere of any space. Harsh, bright lights can create an impersonal, cold environment, while soft, warm lighting adds coziness and warmth. To create a homely feel, use a combination of lighting options such as floor lamps, table lamps, and string lights.

Dimmer switches are a great addition, allowing you to adjust the lighting based on the time of day or your mood. Natural light is equally important. Open up curtains or blinds during the day to allow sunlight to flow into the room, which can instantly make a space feel airy and inviting.

Bring the Outdoors In

Plants are an excellent way to add life and color to your space. Not only do they purify the air, but they also create a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. Whether it’s a potted plant on your windowsill, hanging plants from the ceiling, or a small indoor herb garden, greenery can soften any space and make it feel more relaxed.

Even if you’re not a plant expert, there are easy-to-care-for options like succulents, snake plants, or pothos that thrive indoors with minimal attention.

Use Soft Textiles

Textures play an important role in making a space feel cozy and lived-in. Soft textiles like throw pillows, blankets, and curtains can add a tactile dimension to your home that immediately makes it feel more inviting. Layering different fabrics, such as wool, cotton, and velvet, creates depth and visual interest while contributing to comfort.

Don’t forget about your bedding. A comfortable bed with quality sheets and a plush duvet can be the ultimate touch to create a restful environment, allowing you to feel truly at home when you retire for the night.

Create Zones for Relaxation and Functionality

In order to make your home feel truly yours, it’s important to design spaces that cater to both relaxation and functionality. Create a designated spot for reading, working, or simply unwinding after a long day. This could be a corner with a comfy chair and a good book, or a cozy nook by the window.

Likewise, make sure that the space serves your lifestyle needs. Whether it’s a dedicated workspace or a creative area for hobbies, having specific zones within your home can make it feel more organized and personalized.

Transforming any space into a home doesn’t require a complete overhaul, it’s about adding personal touches, creating comfort, and making the space reflect who you are. By incorporating elements of warmth, personalization, and practicality, you can craft a living space that not only looks good but feels truly like home. Every time you walk through the door, you’ll be reminded that this is a place where you belong.

Bianca Gardner is a Freshman at SBU. She is a Student Ambassador, apart of an intramural badminton and basketball team, as well as a part of the Honors Program. Her passion and love for academic writing, has inspired her to dip into trying more freestyle writing pieces. This is her first year being involved in the Her Campus program, and she is looking forward to seeing what this club has to offer.

Bianca is currently studying a Triple Certification in Education, with a concentration in English. Aside from Her Campus, Bianca finds joy in attending various on campus events, as well as studying. Having very goal oriented friends surrounding her has really impacted her focus and well-being in her academic career at SBU.

Outside of her academic life, Bianca finds joy in being adventurous, spending time with friends, as well as participating in community service acts. Frequently in the nicer seasons, you would most likely find Bianca at the batting cage, or reading a book outside as that is her peace in all chaotic times.

Coming from her small hometown, Jamestown, NY, has really taught her to cherish the little things in life, as well as to make something special out of so little.