Los Angeles Times

8 THINGS THAT MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

- Contact us with comments or questions at — CTW Features hotpropert­y@latimes.com

Home is where you can be yourself, a place you feel safe and comfortabl­e and always relaxed.

Over time, it becomes your personally curated space, full of all the things that express your style and individual­ity. If creating more of a warm, fuzzy feeling in your space is something you’re striving for, check out this list to create a more joyful environmen­t:

1. Family and Friend Photo Displays

To underscore the feeling of home, show off the people and places you love in framed photos hung on walls and set on tables and shelves. Some to consider: the family sitting around the dining-room table on Christmas Day, your kids smiling in school photos, or that unbelievab­le sunset you shot on vacation.

2. Your Favorite Books

Whether you prefer sci-fi, political thrillers, or romance novels, fill bookcases or shelves with your most-beloved reads. While having a book on a tablet is convenient, a hardcover that you can hold in your hands has a certain beauty that a digital device can’t compete with.

3. Good Food

Food is love when there’s always something delicious simmering on the stove or in the refrigerat­or waiting for someone to enjoy. Goal: No one ever leaves your home hungry.

4. Plants

Green plants create a welcoming environmen­t, grounding your home in nature by bringing the outdoors in. Some studies have even reported that green plants can improve a home’s air quality.

5. A Comfortabl­e Sofa and Good Lighting

Every home needs a place that’s cozy and warm, where you can relax and cuddle your cat. To make it a good place for reading, install adequate lighting – an LED bulb will provide enough light to read without shining too much light in the rest of the room.

6. A Family Pet

When you’re not cuddling your cat, give lots of attention to another important family member – your loving, loyal dog. He’s as much a part of home as you are. There’s nothing better than coming home from work and being greeted by your furry best friend who’s overjoyed that you’re back.

7. Grandma’s Good China

She may be long gone but you could still carry on her tradition of having family and friends over for Sunday dinner and, of course, you should set the table with her beloved plates.

8. Music

When you play music at home, it becomes the background noise to your life. It doesn’t matter if it’s rock or classical, music plays a role in shaping – and lifting – the mood of your surroundin­gs.

 ?? Photo courtesy of Content That Works ?? Focus on what creates a warm and welcoming ambiance.
Photo courtesy of Content That Works Focus on what creates a warm and welcoming ambiance.

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