While a happy home is defined by people and passions, the ambiance and environment can also inspire feelings of peace, contentment, and joy. Experts in home and interior design tell us that from styling to organization, there are several ways that homeowners can curate the feeling that defines “home.” Here are some ideas that may get your creative juices flowing and encourage you to begin that home design project you’ve been contemplating.

Utilize the natural light: Florida has no shortage of sunlight, and experts claim that harnessing and utilizing that to your advantage can boost our immune systems, elevate our moods, and even help relieve pain. In fact, the scientific discipline of heliotherapy was developed based on the healing properties of sunbathing. Because of this, creating ample areas in your home that invite natural light into your home is key to well-being. You may wish to place your desk next to the window to take advantage of the sunlight while working or create a comfortable seating area surrounded by glass doors or skylights.
Eliminate traditional overhead lighting: In the same vein, direct overhead lighting can seem harsh and leave some areas dimly lit. If you have a conventional ceiling lamp in the middle of a room, consider changing your style. Project light upwards instead of downwards, or place several light fixtures around the room, creating varied sources of ambient light that work to create a warmer, cozy, and comfortable feeling.
Don’t procrastinate when repairs are needed: Virtually every homeowner has gotten used to the “quirks” of their home – from the outlet that doesn’t work to the stove burner that won’t heat. While these minor inconveniences have easy workarounds, experts claim that on some level, these small needed repairs drain our happiness level. Studies have shown that people have more contentment when these little repairs are finally completed – so grab your toolbox or call a handyman friend and get ready to feel a sense of accomplishment even in the smaller details of life.
Tear down some walls: Just as tearing down relational walls can give our lives more joy, opening up the spaces in our house can inspire a sense of happiness. Open floorplans, soaring ceilings, and visual continuity all dispel small, dark rooms and the isolation they can inspire. Conversely, large sun-drenched open areas inspire connectedness, togetherness, and a sense of airy well-being.
Showcase favorite belongings: Minimalism – and getting rid of unnecessary clutter – alleviates stress and promotes a sense of orderly calm. But decluttering our homes doesn’t mean getting rid of everything. It simply allows us to display and showcase our favorite pieces and give them the attention they deserve. Displaying these items and giving them a place of honor encourages satisfaction and happy memories. Filling a space with items that reflect your personality and experiences makes you more connected to it overall.
Bring the outdoors in: Everyone has experienced the calm serenity of being in a beautiful garden or sitting under a tall tree. Flowers and green plants can invoke that same feeling inside our homes, infusing the beauty of nature, purifying and oxygenating the air, and adding organic color. If you have large windows or glass sliders, you can also add larger, more exotic varieties just outside your home to increase the effect.
Employ the emotion of scent: Aromatherapy recognizes that smells are personally important at an emotional level – after all, we all know how the aroma of a baking pie or a certain perfume can bring up wonderful memories. Essential oil diffusers are the modern way to permeate the air with healthy, natural aromas that can evoke a variety of emotions, from happiness to tranquility. The right oils can alleviate stress, promote sleep, and elevate moods. some of the most recommended include lavender, vanilla, and lemongrass.

Ready to Plan a New Home Design?

Whether sprucing up your interior design or dreaming of a new addition or custom home, call the experts at JTL Studios. We have the experience and creative inspiration to bring the home you’ve always imagined to life.

JTL Studios is one of the most trusted and unique architectural firms in Sarasota. Call today to learn more about residential and commercial design, renovations, landscape design, and more.