Can you tell the difference between entering a house and a home? If so, what makes the difference to you? Is it something about the way a living space looks that helps you decide? Or perhaps it is a feeling, something about the atmosphere that makes a house different than a home?
I guess that there are many factors that could account for the differences we all experience as we enter a living space. For me, one of the biggest things that helps me determine whether a living space feels like a house or a home is the decor.
You know how it is. You enter someone’s house and look around to see nothing but blank walls and minimal furniture. You silently wonder how they live in a place so stark. There is no art work, no colour, and certainly no sense of inviting and warmth about the house you are seeing. It seems like they haven’t put in any time to adding decorations or the touches that make a house seem like more than a house.
Enter house two. From the time you walk through the front door all of your senses are awakened. There is a wonderful smell coming from the candles burning throughout the house, and the lighting of the candles isn’t too bad either. The house is bursting with colour and personality, almost as if it reflects something about the people who live there. The walls, bookshelves, and furniture are all a part of the decor that fill this home and make anyone want to spend time there.
Most everyone I know wants to have a home rather than a house. They want their living space to feel lived in, inviting, and special. They want their home to reflect who they are and the things they care about, and they certainly want it to be filled with amazing colours, great textures and smells, and a lot of great decor.
The good news for you is that regardless of what your house looks like now, you can transform your space into a wonderful home by doing a few simple things. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try risky things in your space, after all, it is your own. If there is a crazy colour or a unique couch that you like, just go for it. Gather ideas from friends and look through a few decorating magazines to discover the style you like.
No matter what you decide to do to transform your houseinto a home, make sure you fill your home with great decor that is truly your taste and that allows all of your guests to feel welcomed and comfortable.
DYH