Opening your home to guests is a wonderful thing. Maybe you want to make it more inviting to you and them.
There are a few simple things you can do to make your home more inviting. Here are 11 ways we suggest:
Open blinds to let natural light in
View this post on Instagram
Nothing says “home” like natural light. For those with large windows, open them up for natural light to flood the room.
If you lack windows — or have small ones — there are a few ways you can accentuate the space:
- Have many soft amber lights. Edison bulbs put off low levels of light that is warm and inviting. Tuck a few lights away behind couches to give the impression of a “glowing” home.
- Hang mirrors. Not only will it open the space, it will also bounce light further.
- Add large art decore. Art makes your home feel more inviting.
- Let white walls be plain. If mirrors or art are not what you like, then let white walls be white walls. The wall will reflect lighting.
RELATED: 12 Ways To Make A Small Living Space Feel Bigger
Incorporate whiter or lighter colors
View this post on Instagram
Bring out lighter colored blankets and throws. Lighter colors reflect purity and calmness.
Put darker items lower in the home to give the impression of shadows.
Add throws and blankets
View this post on Instagram
A softer environment is naturally more inviting than one that is sterile and ridged. Adding layers to your home (blanket on a couch or books on a table) will add a homey feel. Do, however, make sure those pieces have a function.
It’s like the late 1800s English textile designer, William Morris, said,
“Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.”
Straighten pictures and artwork
View this post on Instagram
Use symmetry to straighten art and pictures. Find a natural line somewhere — through the top or bottom of the frame, along the sides, or equidistant from something — to level out the home.
NOTE: Part of the process of softening your home is eliminating or minimizing the ridged feel in the home. Make an effort to not do too much of this which could make your home too structured and not warm.
Find round items to display
View this post on Instagram
Round items are the universal message of unity and completeness. Having round items displayed throughout the home reminds you and your guests that your home is a place for unity.
Plates and bowls are a great symbol for this. Pull a few out from the pantry and place them on shelves, counters, or tables.
Burn a candle or diffuse essential oils
If you already have candles and essential oils, burn or diffuse them to put off aromas that remind you of home.
As a bonus, candles add a warm light that’s great for nighttime as well.
A few of the best smelling are:
- Lemon
- Orange
- Lavender
- Eucalyptus
- Peppermint
- Tea Tree
- Frankincense
Avoid fluorescent lighting
If you’re seeking a warm and inviting home, avoid fluorescent lighting at all costs. These lights are great for convenience, but not good for making home feel like home.
If possible, install a light that puts off more of an amber color versus fluorescent. If that’s not possible, have a few lamps throughout the kitchen. Yes, this will take up counter space, but will enhance a calm mood.
Don’t forget to do this in the bathroom as well.
Rearrange furniture to add more space
View this post on Instagram
An inviting and cozy feel is what we’re going for here. Moving furniture in such a way that’s inviting and warm takes intentionality. As a rule of thumb, move pieces to face each other (to enhance community and conversation), opposed to couches and chairs facing the television.
Use a rug to visually show where conversation happens. the circle or square encourages visitors to enter into the area to have great conversation.
Include nature
View this post on Instagram
Nature has a natural way of reducing stress and anxiety. Flowers, pine cones, rocks, or twigs can create a space that’s inviting and inclusive.
Put any of these items in a large vase and place in the center of the room on a table or stand.
Display books
View this post on Instagram
“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”
Socrates
Displaying books enhances the learning atmosphere. People have taken time to write words on a page for your benefit and enjoyment — soak up the words.
Brew coffee or bake goodies
View this post on Instagram
If guests are on the way, put on a pot of coffee or bake a few goodies. The smell of coffee will fill the home — which is a universal scent of “home.” The baked goods will keep them around for conversation.
Contact Moishe’s Self Storage if you’re looking for cheap storage units in New York City to hold wine, art, or other things. Our Manhattan/The Bronx and Queens/Brooklyn Storage Facilities are conveniently located near you. We offer over 20 different storage unit sizes, available to individuals, students, and businesses. Reserve your room, view specials, or contact us.