How To Make Your New Space Feel Like Home

When I moved home after graduation, one of my hangups, amongst other things, was that I was living in my childhood bedroom. It was so frustrating to come home every day after a shift at Ulta and just see my childhood before me instead of a representation of my promising adult life. Something had to change, and so, I put plans into motion to give my space an update.

Now, while you may not live at home like I do, you may feel that you are just existing in a space without living in it – it doesn’t fully feel like yours. If you suspect that is you, ask yourself “does this feel like home?” If the answer is “no,” I have some tips that might just transform your mindset and space.

1. Build a Pinterest Board

Before you do anything consult Pinterest and gather ideas. When I started pinning bedroom ideas, I started to see trends emerge from colors to decor, and from organization to curtains. Pinterest is the go-to source for inspiration regardless of your personal style.

2. Grab Some Paint

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a space. Before my big renovation, my walls were an army green. The dark color was nice when I wanted to sleep, but when I wanted light it just didn’t cut it. So after looking at my Pinterest board, I noticed that I really liked the idea of having crisp white walls. So I set off to my local hardware store, purchased a couple of gallons and set to work painting. It took two days, but when all was said and done, I had transformed my room with one simple action. Now, my room is bright and airy, and with blackout curtains, I don’t have to worry about my naps being interrupted by some sunshine.

3. Invest In New Bed Linens

Just like new paint can change your space, new sheets can give you an adult update. After I got home from college, I no longer needed Twin XL sheets, so I went on a Target run and found these nice tan ones along with this stark white comforter. Bed linens, like decor, can alter the appearance and personality of a place.

4. Create Your Own Art

One of my favorite parts of my room makeover was creating my own artwork and arranging it like a gallery wall. I chose some of my favorite pieces of scripture, the outline of my beloved Michigan, a fox to represent cleverness, and a compass to remind me of my adventures. All you need for this are canvas’, paint, brushes, and a little creativity. If photography is more of your passion, select a few of your favorite shots and get them developed – I suggest Artifact Uprising for the job. Another idea is commissioning an artist to create a one of a kind piece for you. I did this by recruiting an old high school friend to recreate my favorite picture of Ricky and I.

5. Select Room Decor

Look back at that Pinterest board you set up and start analyzing what you like so much about the space. Is it the plush pillows? Sculptural furniture? Sleek lines? Or ornamental plants? Again, you should be able to see a trend and that should point you in the direction of where to start. For me, the main priority was to make the space cozy, so I sought out pillows and throw blankets. I found both at HomeGoods and I didn’t break the bank. Furniture, however, is still an ongoing process. At the moment, I’m looking for a desk and a bedside table with storage, but besides that, every piece has a function.

6. Set the Mood With Lighting

Even when my room was army green, the overhead lighting bugged me – it was way too bright, and now, my white walls only magnify that. To tone down the lighting, I opted for string lights. I know, I know, they’re not the most grown-up thing, but I do love the warm glow it gives my room. Beside lamps, floor lamps, and even the type of bulb you choose for overhead lighting can impact the overall vibe of your space. This may take some experimenting, but it is still an important tip.

7. Showcase Sentimentality

While I have already touched on artwork and decor, I also want to mention the importance of showcasing sentimental items in your room/home. For example, try hanging those family photos alongside your artwork or place them on a bedside table. Sentimental items, like family photos, or a passed-down blanket, or a stuffed animal really make the new space feel like home because they bring with them a sense of familiarity that otherwise was not present.

8. Organize the Clutter

This one depends on how you like to keep your room – some people like the clutter, while others don’t. Depending on what kind of person you are, organizing your space can make it feel more like home. I like to be as clean as possible when it comes to my room. I have various ways to organize my stuff. In my closet, I have cubes that organize socks, scarves, swimsuits. Then, under my bed, I have storage to organize miscellaneous items that are then hidden by my bed skirt.

There you go – eight easy tips on how to make your new space feel like home! Have a tip you would like to add? Leave a suggestion in the comments below.