Home is where the Heart is
Making your home reflect your personality doesn't have to be expensive or complicated
I recently interviewed Elizabeth Marth Tarara from Sacred Freedom on my podcast “From Superwoman to She-E-O” Episode 7 about her new program about how your living space reflects what is going on inside of you. Her interview got me thinking about my own space and the issues I have with it, especially the guilt that my boys are no longer in their childhood home. I realized the three of us are living in a house but it doesn’t really feel like home and I asked Elizabeth how I could work to change that feeling for all of us.
I needed simple things on a budget that I could do now until the larger projects could be financially obtainable. She helped me see that something so little as my entryway to the house could impact how we feel when we arrive home. So if you are feeling a disconnect with your living space, here are 5 things you can do to make your home a sanctuary that feels uniquely yours.
1. Personalize with Artwork and Photographs
Artwork and photographs are powerful tools to infuse your home with your personality. They can tell your story, showcase your interests, and evoke cherished memories.
DIY Ideas:
Create a Gallery Wall: Select a mix of photos, prints, and personal artwork. Thrift stores, flea markets, and online marketplaces often have affordable frames. Arrange them in a way that feels balanced and visually appealing.
DIY Art Projects: Get creative! You don’t need to be a professional artist. Simple abstract paintings, framed fabric swatches, or even pressed flowers can become stunning pieces.
Use Personal Photographs: Blow up some of your favorite photos and frame them. You can create a collage of travel photos, family portraits, or candid moments that bring you joy.
Budget Tips:
Look for frames at second-hand stores or buy in bulk online.
Use online services for affordable prints and canvases.
Repurpose old frames with a fresh coat of paint.
2. Incorporate Unique Furniture and Decor
Your furniture and decor should reflect your tastes and lifestyle. Mix and match pieces to create a space that feels curated and personal.
DIY Ideas:
Upcycle and Repurpose: Transform old furniture with paint, new hardware, or reupholstery. An old dresser can become a chic sideboard, or a vintage suitcase can be turned into a unique coffee table.
Handmade Decor: Craft your own throw pillows, curtains, or table runners. Choose fabrics and patterns that you love and that resonate with your style.
Budget Tips:
Shop at thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for unique, affordable pieces.
Swap furniture and decor with friends or family members.
3. Add Greenery and Natural Elements
Plants and natural elements bring life and a sense of tranquility to any space. They are also versatile and can suit any style, from minimalist to bohemian.
DIY Ideas:
Create a Plant Corner: Gather various plants in different sizes and shapes to create a green oasis. Use pots and planters that complement your decor.
DIY Planters: Make your own planters using materials like terracotta, wood, or even repurposed items like tin cans or glass jars.
Budget Tips:
Start with easy-to-care-for plants like succulents, pothos, or snake plants.
Propagate plants from cuttings to expand your collection without spending much.
4. Utilize Color and Patterns
Color and patterns can drastically change the feel of a room and are an excellent way to express your personality.
DIY Ideas:
Paint an Accent Wall: Choose a color that you love and paint one wall to create a focal point. This can add depth and interest to your space without overwhelming it.
Stenciling and Wallpaper: Use stencils to create patterns on walls or furniture. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is another affordable and temporary way to add bold patterns and textures.
Budget Tips:
Buy paint samples before committing to a color to avoid costly mistakes.
Look for discounted paint at hardware stores, or use leftover paint from previous projects.
5. Incorporate Personal Collections and Hobbies
Showcasing your hobbies and collections is a great way to make your home feel unique and personal.
DIY Ideas:
Display Collections: Whether it's books, vinyl records, vintage cameras, or travel souvenirs, find creative ways to display your collections. Shelves, shadow boxes, and glass cabinets can keep them organized and on display.
Create Hobby Spaces: Dedicate a corner or a room to your hobbies. If you love reading, create a cozy reading nook. If you’re into crafting, set up a small studio with all your supplies.
Budget Tips:
Use existing furniture and decor to highlight your collections.
Organize and display items you already own instead of buying new decor.
Making your home reflect your personality doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. With a bit of creativity and some DIY spirit, you can transform your space into a sanctuary that feels uniquely yours. These steps will help you create a home that not only looks great but also feels like a true reflection of who you are.
