10 tips to a well functioning living space
Your home and living environment should be a reflection of yourself.
A place that captures your creativity and individuality.
I am someone who believes in a clean and clear home equals a clean and clear mind.
How many times do we turn around in our bedrooms/kitchen/living room and see clutter building up and just think, I’ll get to that later?
Annoyingly though, if we don’t tackle clutter and disorder head-on, it can all too quickly build up and the task feels daunting can overwhelm us.
Fortunately, I’v created this short guide with helpful tips on how to create a today, organised well functioning space and keep it that way.
Most importantly, everything must have a home. Books must have a shelf, clothes must have drawers and wardrobes with enough space, linens should have a cupboard, coats, bags, shoes hats etc should really have hanging space or a closet. Everyday things accumulate quickly and naturally get plonked in the busyness of life. If something doesn’t have a purposefully allocated home, it makes tidying almost impossible. We want it to be easy and not feel like a chore. Tidying then feels like a chore rather than quick and painless.
Do not underestimate the advantages of good interior design. Using colours that create a sense calm, soft fabrics and furnishings that feel inviting, well chosen blinds or curtains that represent the rooms natural light, strategically hung mirrors for reflection and seemingly larger space, cleverly upholstered sofas and a well thought out, functioning design. Not only does it add value to our property but leaves us with a sense of pride and encourages us to keep on top of maintenance. Flick through Pinterest and home decor mags for inspiration regularly.
Lighting, temperature, smells and sounds. All fundamentally play a huge part in the ambiance of our homes. Cooler rooms feel less muggy and stagnant than warmer rooms. Dimmed lighting help us unwind and is less stimulating. Scented candles or oil burners help bring about sensory moods. Cooking fresh bread for example will lessen anxiety and makes us feel warm, cosy and “at home”.
In many homes, the kitchen is at the heart of it. Psychologically, it pays to have a super tidy, clean and neat kitchen space. More often than not, we want our kitchens to feel inviting. After all, this is where we cook, eat and relax. Have your oven professionally cleaned twice a year. A nice dining table free from clutter or “the home office” will ensure time can be spent together sharing food and stories. Everyone should muck in with the cleaning up after a meal this makes it quick and efficient. If the kitchen is suitably well kept before hand then the cleaning up stage will feel less laborious.
Pets are magical to have in the home. They do however unfortunately bring unwanted smells and dirt. Ideally pets should be kept off beds and sofas as they can over time destroy sheets and fabrics with their tiny claws. But they are our trusted friends and having a snuggle on the couch is wonderful. Having white sheets, throws and sofa cushions can be more helpful than coloured or patterned fabrics. Whites come up exceptionally well in a hot wash with added “whitening agents”. They are easier to spot/stain treat plus white is very easily blended into many colour schemes.
Bathrooms benefit from being minimal and again scrupulously clean. Tiles are easily maintainable and hard wood flooring is better than carpet for wet rooms. Wood and stone floorings harbour less dust and dirt and therefore work well for those with allergies and are easier to clean on a daily basis. Bathrooms should be a sanctuary not just for a “wash n go”. Place candles, soft fluffy towels and nice bath or shower oils nearby for unwinding time.
Bedrooms should be free of too much stimulation. This is a place for rest and retreating. Avoid TVs if possible and computer games etc. It creates a tense, stimulating energy. This is distracting and prohibits restful sleep.
Invest in good storage boxes that stack if possible and keep a label maker to hand for writing labels with the contents on. Make clever use of all available spaces within the house. Under the bed, on top of wardrobes and under the stairs. Vacuum pack less used or seasonal clothing. Large and bulky kitchen equipment can be kept out of sight in a good pantry or high cupboards. Keep an organised inventory of items you keep in the loft to avoid unnecessary stress or time searching for something you’re unsure when you’ve stored.
Regularly decluttering and sorting through unused things can be good maintenance rather than a once a year “spring clean”. Sharing or giving away to a charity can be really appreciated. Streamline your wardrobes. Tackle your Tupperware cupboard. Cull your trainer collection often and it will feel much less daunting in the long run.
Last but not least, love and thank your home. There’s no place quite like it. It shelters us, keeps us safe and warm, brings people together and is our haven and safe ground after a long hard day. Cherish it. Take pride and it will provide.
Helen x