Our happy place
HOW WE DECORATE OUR HOME ISN’T A FRIVOLOUS SUBJECT. IT’S VITAL FOR OUR MENTAL HEALTH AND HAPPINESS, INTERIORS EXPERT MICHELLE OGUNDEHIN TELLS
IF EVER there was a time to discover the power our homes have to make us truly happy, that time is now. Former Elle Decoration editor-in-chief Michelle Ogundehin believes our mental health and happiness at home are inextricably linked. Her new book, Happy Inside, was inspired by the spiralling levels of chronic disease and mental health disorders all around us and she thinks delving deeper than decor alone is what will lead us to true contentment.
‘People aren’t thinking about their homes in the right way, especially in this digital age, where life has been sped up and home has become a place where you just crash,’ says the interiors expert, who was also a judge on BBC Two’s Interior Design Masters.
‘People are so concerned with what their homes look like on social media but more important is how it makes you feel. We are sensory beings. We
need to work out what makes our heart sing, the colours, materials and textures we intuitively respond to and dive into, as these have huge power to affect our feelings, moods and vitality.’
Michelle’s home is a charming 200year-old cottage in Brighton where she lives with her six-year-old son and two basset hounds. She has renovated throughout while retaining the original features of the climber-covered house.
‘I’m not minimalist but I’m anti-clutter and I’m big on things that tell the story of your life,’ she adds. ‘During my years as a magazine editor, I’d go into houses and ask about something and people wouldn’t remember where it came from or tell me they didn’t like it. It’s better not to have it if it means nothing. A home should be curated according to who you are and what you love.’
Michelle believes that life – particularly during lockdown – is easier with your home to help you. ‘Our homes should represent refuge and safety, a place to recharge, reboot and reconnect in the midst of the madness of modern life. For some people right now, home might be more of a prison but you don’t need lots of space, money or even to own your home to make it a happier, more supportive and sustaining space. You can become happy inside yourself if you’re happy inside your space. I want to debunk any idea of homemaking as frivolous. It’s fundamental to our health and happiness. Your home is your secret superpower in this busy world!’
■ Happy Inside: How To Harness The Power Of Home For Health And Happiness is on sale now, Ebury Press, £18.99, amazon.co.uk