New year brings new promises for decorating
Here are some ways to take your home to the next level of comfort in 2021
Being home was a necessity in 2020, but I’m not sure I want to go back to the old way of living — at least in terms of my home. Sure, I want to be more social, do some travelling and shop offline, but I’ve learned to love my home and the tranquility it offers. I’m grateful for it.
This year, I’m making resolutions (I like to think of them as promises) that will nurture my new, enhanced love for home. In this column, I’m offering up some ways I’m going to take my home to next-level comfort in 2021. Whether you’re an essential worker who hasn’t had the luxury to stay safe at home, or you’re like me, keeping our community safe by staying home, I hope my ideas inspire you to make your time at home restorative and pleasurable.
THE PROMISE: GET ORGANIZED
My closets need proper organizing systems installed, but before that happens, I’ll need to attack the 15 years of clothing that’s been hoarded away. Disorganized closets result in us buying more clothes than needed because we can’t see what we have at a glance. That’s wasteful and I’m going to fix that. That’s a promise. What area of your home is nagging at you? Attack it and I promise you’ll feel more organized and energized.
THE PROMISE: MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACES
I don’t want to work in a spare bedroom. I want to be in the centre of my home (aka the previously dead zone between the kitchen and living room), not shut away for hours on end. That means keeping a desk organized and tidy, having office furnishings that match my home’s decor and being able to hide the work when (and if) people stop by.
I’ve already found a place for my scanner/printer: it’s hidden under my sofa. My desk chair is actually an older wingback chair from the living room to which I’ve added a newly upholstered seat cushion that’s higher, so I get proper support. What room is underused (or misused!) in your house? Take a look around and imagine the possibilities.
THE PROMISE: TO CREATE EXTRA COMFORTS
Extra comforts are supremely personal. What gives me comfort is cooking and baking, and my kitchen is already nicely organized for just that. My living room, however, doesn’t live up to a comfort level that I need. I promise to add a new gas fireplace and incorporate a television into the room. Easy-to-add cosy touches of a soft area rug, pillows and throws will make it a haven for relaxing.
If you need to up your comfort level, imagine small and large fixes that support the way you live, that both keep you active and engaged in the world and help you relax. Maybe it’s setting up space for a hobby like an art practice, meditation corner or a games centre for the family. What gives you comfort?
THE PROMISE: A WELCOME HOME
For me, making my home a welcome place for friends and family when they are allowed to visit again is a comforting thought. I’m thinking ahead and planning ways to make that happen. I’ll make my entryway more welcoming, ensure the guest rooms have quality mattresses and make my dining room a place where people will love to lounge for hours after sharing a meal.
I recently moved my old davenport sofa to the dining room; it will be much more comfortable for lounging, enjoying a drink and chatting. I don’t know when that will be — but I’ll be ready! If socializing is on your list of mustdos, now’s the time to plan your outdoor spaces for safe, socially distanced summer gatherings. What changes will enable you to see your friends outdoors?
As you can see, my list of promises is long. I’d love to hear about the promises you’ve made to yourself for your home in 2021. The past year has taught us to adapt; now, we have to keep up the good work and make a promise ourselves and our communities for a safe and stellar year.
Have a happy, healthy 2021!