Five simple ways to add personality to your home
In a world that is chaotic and often stressful it is so important to make your home as comfortable as possible, to reflect your needs and desires in your living space. Health coaches are fully tuned into how interior decor can impact your mood and your life. I am a big advocate too, of the importance of putting your personality to the fore in your home. It doesn't have to be complicated and it doesn't all have to happen at once. It's about getting to know your likes and dislikes and growing into your space.
1. Choose furniture that is comfortable and suits your requirements. This is paramount. Yes, we want it to look nice but when it comes down to it we want to be able to relax in our safe space. Do you like bright colours? You could choose a muted sofa and add throws or scatter cushions to bring a pop of colour. Remember if you have a small space try go for more streamline shapes so as not to swamp your room and keep a good flow. IKEA's wingback yellow chair and footstool is a great example of comfort, good design and use of colours and textures to bring you ease at the end of a long day.
2. Add original artwork and unique accessories. Bright, colourful, happy paintings will bring a sense of fun to your home. Abstract art is a good choice if you are unsure of your style. Many Irish artists will do commission paintings to match your decor. If you like to people watch then figurative art might work for you. It really can help you to feel relaxed and comfortable in your home, bringing back happy memories or just drifting away gazing at a piece of art. High street shops such as Dunnes Stores, Next or JYSK are a great place to find accessories such as vases and lamps. If you want to add that extra bit of personality you could support local and buy form Irish ceramicists.
3. Add some colour to your walls. A change of wall paint can really revive a tired room. Think about the function of your room. Your bedroom, for example....do you like to immerse yourself in a world of dark, deep reds to fall asleep in or do you prefer lighter, brighter colours, like yellow or mustard to wake up and greet the day? The mood of a room can really depend on the wall colour. White walls can be quite stark but allow flexibility in the rest of the home decor. With the right lighting at night time a white room can have a whole different vibe, which leads me on to the next point.
4. Choose your lighting well. Most rooms will need a bright centre light which can often be quite harsh, formal and directional. However, you can soften the feel by adding the right shade. Table lamps are my own favourite to add atmosphere to interior spaces. A red shade will diffuse a lovely moody glow in your living room. A tall standard lamp in a corner, paired with a rocking chair can really be inviting. Candles in the right colours and holders will add that extra level of comfort in your home.
5. Bring nature into your home. Studies have proven that nature can reduce stress and boost your wellbeing. I treat myself to fresh cut flowers on a weekly basis. There is nothing more uplifting than walking into a room and seeing bright, cheerful flowers in a pretty vase. Their scent is simply unmatchable. If you have green fingers, unlike me, growing a plant from seed can be a very fulfilling thing; watching Mother Nature do what she does best.
Whether you are a home owner or renting a space, you can inject passion and personality to make it your own. Home styling is a great way to express yourself, to feel comfortable when you close your front door and to allow you to entertain guests and be proud of where you live. Really, it is our place of hibernation and renewal so feeling at one with your surroundings is an essential part of balanced modern living.
Wishing you the best, KiKi x