Do you wish your home could be a more cheerful place? After a long day you deserve to come back to a refuge that will lift your spirits. And now winter is round the corner and the nights are starting to draw in, it’s even more important that your home environment will boost your mood. The great news is there are simple tweaks you can make to your décor that will transform your house into a sanctuary of happiness: 1. Be bold with colour Colours have the power to influence your mood, and optimistic colours like yellow and green have been shown to make us happier. Yellow will lift your spirits and promote energy, and we associate green with nature, health and wellbeing. You don’t need big doses of these bright hues either; a zesty lemon chair or emerald picture frame can be enough to give you a boost. For inspiration, take a look at Farrow & Ball’s range of cheerful colours, like Dayroom Yellow and Breakfast Room Green. 2. Brighten your home with houseplants Houseplants look great with any décor scheme, and studies suggest they can actually decrease your stress levels. They’re effective for purifying the air, too. If you don’t have a green thumb, go for low maintenance options like succulents, money plants or yuccas. And if you really don’t have time to water, incorporating outdoorsy elements like shells or colourful crystals are another great way to make your space feel relaxing. 3. Get rid of clutter It’s true: not only is clutter the biggest obstacle to flawless interior design, it also causes stress. On the other hand, an organised and clear space is instantly calming. Whether you want to go full minimalist and Kondo every area of your home, or you just want to tone down a too-busy worktop, taking steps to declutter your space will make you feel happier. 4. Make your bed It might sound trivial, but taking the time to make your bed as soon as you get up will give you the best start to your day. This is because it helps you get into a productive frame of mind so you’re ready to tackle the day’s tasks. And as a bonus you’ll also have a pleasant environment to return to at night-time! 5. Let in the light Exposure to natural light improves your mood and helps you sleep better at night, too. Get as much of it as you can by fully opening blinds and curtains, and hanging mirrors opposite windows. And as the days get shorter over the winter months, fake it with plenty of ambient lighting at different levels throughout your home. Swap out white and blue toned bulbs for warmer tones like yellow. Or choose cheerful pink bulbs, and you can literally have a rose-tinted home. Oliver Bonas currently has a great range of uplifting lamps and bulbs from modern to vintage. 6. Choose furniture with curves
Furniture with curved edges is easier on the eye than boxy, angular shapes. But if you’ve a home full of sharp angles, don’t worry! Simply soften the look with some casually draped throws and cosy cushions. Go for tactile textures like chunky knits and velvets, and your space will instantly feel more pleasant. Take a look at the range of soft furnishings from Habitat for sunny colours and plush textures to suit every taste. |