TURN YOUR ISOLATION PAD INTO A HAVEN
Try a few simple upgrades to help brighten both your mood and decor
Months have passed since I started spending my free and work time inside my house. Although I like my place, I’m getting tired of the same rooms, views and routine.
I yearn for a change of scenery; to go to restaurants, cafés for work meetings, travel, visit other people’s houses — to do all the things I did last summer. I’m trying to find new ways to appreciate and enjoy this home that I’m stuck in for the rest of the summer.
Although going outside gives me a new perspective, the extreme heat of late has me appreciating the coolness of the inside of my house. I decided to make a list of a few affordable and selfish upgrades (I call them “little joys”) that will breathe new life into the rooms I have become bored with and help me appreciate my home again during this long lockdown summer of 2020.
SLEEPY JOYS
Nothing evokes the feeling of getting away like slipping into fresh, new hotel-like sheets. I’m upgrading my familiar cotton sheets to a linen/cotton blend for the rest of the summer. I’m going for the cool temp that natural bed linens provide and the illusion that I’m sleeping at a luxury hotel (I can keep that up at least while my eyes are closed).
I’ve had the same painting of a boat hanging in the same place for more than 15 years. Time to move it to another wall and hang a different piece of art — no need to purchase anything for this change; the only effort will be a new nail in the wall.
Are you a stickler for blocking out sunlight when sleeping? I’m a ‘rise with the sun’ type. I’m going to invest in block-out blinds so when I decide to sleep in on weekends, the light won’t wake me.
JOYS AT MY DESK
My makeshift pandemic home office was quickly thrown together on the main floor of my townhouse. Although the wingback chair slid up to my dining console, I am finding I need constant breaks because of the lack of ergonomic support. It’s time to find an attractive (walnut wood and linen-coloured finishes would be great) office chair that works with my main-floor decor and gives me the support I need.
Working and living around my desk for three months has led to clutter. Time to get a sturdy office tote box and fill it with the extra printer ink and paper, spare staples, files and those business cards I no longer hand out. Clearing the clutter will also help keep my work brain organized.
Once the clutter is cleared, I’m going to add a small plant (or some summer flowers) to my desk. Bringing in some nature to my work area will brighten my day and bring a fresh new colour into the room. It’s an easy fix — I love it.
JOYS IN THE BATH
My morning routine has become boring and it’s been a while since I’ve purchased a new soap and shampoo. And, true confession: my daily bath towel is ready for retirement. I’m on the lookout for those thinner cotton/ linen Turkish towels to create that hammam-like vibe when I step out of the shower.
Since foot care is more appreciated during the summer months (and I’m not quite ready to be making mani and pedi appointments), I’m ordering a foot spa to help keep my feet presentable in wearing sandals and flip-flops.
These days of safe social-distancing visits mean giving extra-special attention to my pampering the few friends and family who visit in a safe way.
Since my main bath is also my guest bath, I’m adding a few extra guest towels and a fancy summer-scented hand soap.
LOOK OUTSIDE YOUR HOME
Not done treating yourself to a few new, joyful touches? There are also ways to create comfort outside your home.
1. A small water feature beside my favourite outdoor chair will help to soothe by obscuring neighbourhood sounds.
2. I’ve got the ideal spot on my terrace for a hammock … perfect for siesta time!
3. An outdoor reading light will help me enjoy my favourite decorating magazines and lure me out of the house before bedtime.
Do you have a decor dilemma or want to give Karl feedback? You can contact him on Instagram at Karl_lohnes. Karl has worked as a home decor expert and product designer for 25 years.