If you’ve bought up a house to renovate, it’s hands down one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do – but there’s no mistaking that it isn’t easy! There are so many elements involved that it can take a lot of time, effort and decision-making to get it just right. Which is why you don’t want to rush into it and also want to know what’s in store for you. In this article we have a look at some top tips that can help you when it comes to making a new home feel like your own – from those luxury interior details, to adding the right scent, there really is so much you can do. Keep reading to find out more and get inspired.
Unpack the essentials first
The first thing you need to do on moving day is get the essentials unpacked. Things like your favourite coffee mug, cushions to sit on, blankets and tea and coffee can help you feel a bit more grounded and have a chance to relax while chaos unfolds around you! It can help you have some pockets of calm, to relax and rechange before getting on with the unpacking. It’s also important to stay hydrated to keep up the strength for unpacking as you get about your day as there is undoubtedly a lot to do!
Add personal touches
Personal touches are one of the most important ways to make your house feel like a home as they will take it from a spot where anyone would like, to marking it out as yours. Add things like your own artwork or photos to the wall, and you’ll be surprised what a difference it makes. Other things you can put out are travel souvenirs, ornaments, or just items that feel like you and make the space uniquely yours.
Layer textures for warmth
Sometimes one of the weirdest parts about moving into a new home is that it just doesn’t feel lived in, particularly if you are moving into a new build. To try and offset this feeling, layer up textures to help it feel warm and cozy. Combine things like soft throws with cushions, rugs and curtains to add warmth, texture and splashes of colour too. Not only will it make it feel more lived in and cosy, but will also draw the room together and help the aesthetics of the space work. Feel free to put together new and old items, items that you might think would clash, and you might just be surprised at how well they work together with minimal effort required!
Play with lighting
Never underestimate the power of lighting and how it can transform a home from feeling stark and cold, to something that is warm, inviting and really feels like home. Sometimes the bulbs already in your home can be harsh, bright ones. Swap these for warm lights and get dimmer switches installed so you can adjust the brightness. You should also use things like lamps and wall lights to create a soft glow without being harsh. Play around with lighting on different levels, such as a floor lamp in a corner, a table lamp, or string lights. These can add a gentle glow that is relaxing, inviting and creates a space you want to stay in all evening long with a hot chocolate.
Incorporate Scent
Scent is one of the most important senses and it can have a strong psychological impact with bringing back memories, or generating feelings. THis will therefore make it one of the most effective ways to turn a house into a home. There are a host of ways you can incorporate scent into your house, including through candles, room sprays, diffusers or incense sticks depending on the type of scent you are looking for, whether you want something strong, something for all the time, or something to enjoy when you feel like it. Consider what scents work for you and also the time of year. For example, in winter you want more woody scents, whereas in the summer you want light florals and linen smells. It can be a good idea to go into a store to find the best scent for you as opposed to shopping online, as it can be risky not trying it before you buy it.
Bring the outside in
If you find your home feels drab and colourless, introducing greenery is one of the easiest ways to make it feel alive and add a homey feel. Houseplants are known for their many benefits, from improving the quality of the air, to being aesthetically pleasing to the eye as well. Think about how well you take care of plants and whether it’s something you enjoy or if you end up killing every plant you look after. If the latter, it might be worth looking into fake plants, or evergreen ones that don’t need so much care and attention!
Take time to make decisions
Lastly, don’t rush with your decisions. Live in it for a while before deciding on colours, furniture layouts, or big purchases. This helps you understand how you actually use each room and what feels right. You’ll avoid impulse buys that don’t suit your lifestyle and instead create a home that grows with you. Thoughtful choices made over time lead to a space that feels intentional, balanced, and truly personal, not just quickly put together.
These are just a few things you can do that can help you to make a new house feel like home. Remember to take it slow and the first few nights in a new house can feel strange. With the help of a few homey touches, making new memories in the space and incorporating things like warm lighting and comforting smells, you’ll find it makes all the difference. Soon you won’t be able to imagine your home as anywhere else but here and you will wonder just how it didn’t feel so homey before! What are some top tips you have for making a new home feel like your own? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
