There’s no question that the picture-perfect homes displayed on Pinterest or in the pages of your favorite magazine are alluring. After all, they have to be—otherwise, how would their creator sell the latest issues or get views on the newest link? But the same appeal that draws people in has a dark side. As beautiful as these impeccable spaces may be, they can lead to painfully unrealistic expectations for your own home.
The biggest difference between the flawless designs of houses in magazine features and the space you live in is just that—you live in yours. And, while that immaculate ideal might be a nice inspiration, it’s hardly something to aspire to. In reality, your space will feel all the more warm, genuine, and welcoming when it’s clear that it’s lived in. When you invite people into your well-loved home, they feel a sort of familiar exclusivity, gratitude for you sharing such a special space. But, with so many visions of an ideal home being all too immaculate, how can you bring that sense of being lived in, and the comfort level that comes with it, to your space?
Make your space uniquely yours.
One detail you won’t find in most magazine-styled rooms is a distinctly personal touch. But these can make a world of difference—the right custom features can truly make your house feel like a home. One great way to add a bit of personalized décor is to add prints of photos to your wall space. Take your favorite pictures and order photo prints that you can frame in your family room. Pick out some distinctive art prints to add color to your bedroom while making a statement. Using more natural materials, like canvas prints, can add a bit of texture. You can even opt for a collage print to showcase all of your happiest memories in one fell swoop. Looking for options that aren’t related to wall art? Try tossing some attractive throw pillows onto your bed, couch, or another surface. A decorative pillow can add the same color and impact as an art print or other wall art while creating a softer feel in your favorite rooms.
Add welcoming details to entertaining areas.
One of the most common reasons to want your home to feel more lived-in is to make it a more welcoming space for friends and family who may visit. With that in mind, it makes sense to focus at least some of your efforts on the spaces where your guests will spend time. That might mean adding some photo prints of you and your favorite people to the living room walls to remind them of the great times you have together and the special place they hold in your heart. It could also mean investing in particularly plush mattresses for any guest rooms to ensure they’ll have a soft mattress to fall into after a day of adventures, no matter their go-to sleep position. Maybe it’s as simple as keeping linens and toiletries on-hand for visitors. Think through the spaces where your guests will spend their time and help them feel more comfortable and welcome in your home.
Embrace imperfection.
Perhaps the simplest way to make your space feel more lived-in is to actually live in your space. If you’re aspiring to a meticulously designed, Pinterest-inspired house, it might look pristine, but it will lose the welcome comfort of a space that is, more than anything else, a home. It’s okay if the kids missed putting away a toy or two before you tucked them into bed. It’s okay if you make your own bed without tucking each corner perfectly beneath the mattress. Those rumpled throw pillows let visitors know that your couch supports your family. The dishes in the sink of the mugs on the counter show the meals and cups of coffee you’ve shared with the people you love. While you’re welcome to tidy and clean up as much as you’d like, it’s these tiny, seemingly overlooked details that can make your house a home.
Picture-perfect, painstakingly styled houses have their appeal. But, for a more welcoming, soft feel that invites people into your home and lets them feel like part of the family, a more lived-in look might be your goal. So showcase your favorite photo prints, even if they don’t exactly match the room’s aesthetic. Let your bedding or pillows be a bit rumpled. And be ready to open the door to your loved ones with a resounding, “Welcome to our home!”
To read more on topics like this, check out the House category
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