How to create a simple and relaxed home - Part Four

Prioritise function and comfort

Of course we want our homes to be beautiful but not at the expense of being functional and comfortable. If we want to spend more time being instead of always doing, we need to make sure our homes support our daily routines. When selecting furniture, focus on comfort and not just looks. Arrange furniture to make conversation easy, keep a cosy throw at hand, install proper lighting for reading and have a coffee/end table in arm’s reach to place books and glasses etc.

Image courtesy of http://www.2014interiordesignarticle.com/home-design/the-cozy-scandinavian-style/ 

Sabine

How to create a simple and relaxed home - Part Three

Choose relaxing colours

Colour can be used to harmonise and create your sought after atmosphere and ambiance. Use it not just with paint on your walls, but also with furniture and/or accents such as rugs, cushions and accessories.

Image courtesy of http://www.digsdigs.com/45-beautiful-scandinavian-living-room-designs/ 

Be conscious of the quantity of colours that you use, especially for small spaces. Use one or two colours as an accent, rather than a smattering of bold colours.  It is a good idea to avoid loud patterns, especially sharp angular geometric shapes. 

Image courtesy of http://lifestyledelight.com/2014/10/10/calming-bedroom-color-schemes/

The easiest way to approach the idea of relaxing colours is to think of the natural world.  For example, beach colours or forest colours.  Beach colours are muted and soft tones.  Forest colours are deeper tones, yet balancing and calming. Keep background colours neutral and add splashes of colour by using accessories reflecting the natural world and seasons.

Sabine

How to create a simple and relaxed home - Part Two

Focus on your entrance

At the front entrance to our home, we have an opportunity to leave behind the stresses from our day. Entryways are so important because this is where we transition from the public outer world to our private inner world. 

Create a space where you can shift gears by making entryway welcoming and appealing. Place something outside your door that makes you stop for a moment, such as an attractive plant, mat or lantern. 

Image courtesy of http://www.littlegreene.com/blog/paint/freshen-up-tired-looking-exteriors-with-little-greene-outdoor-paints/ 

Once inside your door, create a stopping place by placing a table with a lamp, a spot to place keys and mail or a bench / chair to sit down and take-off your shoes. 

Image courtesy of http://www.housetohome.co.uk/room-idea/picture/traditional-hallway-ideas-10-of-the-best/5

A special object or a favourite picture is a great way to welcome yourself home!

Sabine

How to create a simple and relaxed home - Part One

Simplify & de-clutter

A clutter filled, disorganised home depletes our time and energy and can make us feel stressed; whereas a tidy, organised space gives us room to slow down and breathe - as well as time and energy for the experiences and people that truly matter. 

This does not have to mean a minimalist style but try to only keep objects that are meaningful, useful or beautiful and let go of the rest. In return your home will be more welcoming, easier to maintain and more calm.

Image courtesy of http://gravity-gravity.tumblr.com/post/82398562000/via-alvhem-makleri 

Reasons to de-clutter:

• It saves time.
• It gives mental clarity and better emotional health.
• Increased space.
• Reduced workload.
• It uncovers hidden income (i.e. selling the stuff you no longer need).
• It creates a good impression.
• It may reduce allergies.
• Gives you the chance to re-invent yourself.

What are you waiting for?

Sabine

Welcome to Simply Home!

My name is Sabine Ritter-Maltby and I am the creator of this blog.

I believe that our homes should be a refuge - separate from the often overwhelming, fast-paced and demanding lives we lead outside of our homes. A place where we can let our guard down; completely relax and be ourselves.

Unfortunately, the hectic outer world intrudes too often on our inner space. Instead of peaceful sanctuaries that nourish and soothe, our homes have become extensions of our busy lives.

Image Courtesy of http://www.housetohome.co.uk/house-tour/picture/step-inside-a-traditional-cottage

We need to reclaim our homes’ intended purpose as a place for renewal, connection and inspiration. When we simplify our homes, we can find our way back to the calm, protective and healing environments our homes are meant to be.

Simply Home will give you ideas for interior design, stylish organising and seasonal decor.

Sabine