Imagine this: after a stressful day tackling a never-ending to-do list, you walk into your home and are greeted by a serene sanctuary that instantly calms your mind. Instead of clutter and chaos, you find a haven where you can unwind, recharge, and reconnect.

Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

In this blog, we’ll explore simple yet powerful ways to transform your space into a tranquil retreat. From decluttering and incorporating natural elements to embracing cozy elements and mindful practices, we’ll guide you through practical tips to bring calm to every corner of your home.

1. Declutter and organize your space

The quickest way to create a calmer home is by clearing out the clutter. When you have items all over the place, your home feels messier and more chaotic, which results in higher levels of stress. You walk into a room, and all you can see is a giant list of chores, making it nearly impossible to sit down and relax.

Start by getting rid of items that you don’t need. It’s easy to default to clothing, but clutter can come in different forms. From an abundance of knick-knacks, excessive home décor, kid toys, kitchen gadgets, or hand-me-downs you didn’t really want but feel obligated to keep, it’s easy to let “stuff” fill your home.

Once you’ve cleared the junk, thoughtfully put away the items you wanted to keep. It would be counter-productive to spend so much time reducing your stuff just to cram it back into a cupboard without any thought. Opening drawers and cabinets and seeing an organized interior helps to foster a calm feeling at home.

When you have your home decluttered, work to keep it that way. Maintaining a clutter-free home is a change in mindset. You’ll have to work to keep surfaces clear, put things away right after use, and encourage the other members of your household to do the same.

2. Start with a neutral palette

Translating a feeling into something visual can be tricky, so it’s helpful to think of the places where you feel most at peace and bring those elements into your home. Whether it’s the spa, the beach, or your favorite trail in the woods, chances are it’s not somewhere loud, busy, and full of bright colors.

Muted, neutral tones are much easier on the eyes than bold colors and patterns, but this doesn’t mean your space needs to feel boring or sterile. Incorporate warmer choices like cream or taupe instead of a stark white, and use plenty of texture or subtle patterns to create visual interest.

Go for softer, subdued tones within your favorite shades. If your favorite space is by the water, find a soothing blue that reminds you of the ocean. If you are most at peace out in nature, incorporate the soft greens you see on your favorite walking trail. You want your home to both feel calming and be a reflection of you.

3. Make it cozy

Being cozy and feeling calm go hand in hand. A cozy home plays off the senses to create a warm, welcoming ambiance, and there are few things more calming than something that feels like a big hug.

Invest in comfortable furniture

Picture yourself sinking into a plush sofa after a long day or curling up in an oversized armchair with a good book. By choosing furniture that prioritizes both style and comfort, you not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space but also encourage relaxation and lounging.

Incorporate sensory elements

A calm home plays off all the senses to create an overarching feeling of serenity. Soft, ambient music feels soothing. Essential oils in a diffuser can infuse your home with natural scents known for their calming properties, like eucalyptus or lavender.

Get cozy with your textiles

Incorporating soft, enticing materials is an easy way to make your home feel calm. Add plush blankets, cushions, and rugs to create a warm and inviting space. Think fabrics you’d want to snuggle into – fuzzy sheepskin, faux fur, rich velvet, fleece, or a chunky knit.

By appealing to our senses of sight, smell, touch, and sound, we create a multi-dimensional experience that helps us unwind and find peace in our surroundings.

Personalize your space

Displaying personal items like meaningful artwork, family photos, or objects that bring you joy adds a layer of personal warmth to your home. Interesting elements tell a story and create an emotional connection that enhances the coziness of the space. Remove anything you associate with undesirable feelings to make your home feel even more calm.

Residence 2, Terra Collection, The Landing at Tustin Legacy Community, Tustin, California

4. Designate “Relaxation Zones”

Carve out a space that’s all your own where you can meditate, read, journal, or just breathe. These dedicated relaxation zones serve as physical reminders to prioritize mindfulness amidst the hustle and bustle of our daily lives.

Get comfortable, keep a blanket nearby to wrap up in, and spend a quiet moment being still with your thoughts. Encourage everyone in your household to create their own little sanctuary and work not to disturb each other when there.

Dawson 26 Floor Plan, Front Garage Conventional Collection, Livingston Community, Calgary, Alberta

5. Incorporate lighting in a strategic way

Lighting is one of those elements that instantly sets the tone and mood of a space. Glaring bright lights won’t help you relax when you’re trying to cozy up in bed, nor will dim lights be helpful when trying to cook dinner. The wrong lighting can make you feel annoyed or frustrated and put you further away from the calm home you’re trying to create.

A well-thought-out lighting scheme will deliver the appropriate brightness where you need it, as well as create an inviting and relaxing ambiance. Unfortunately, no single light fixture does it all, and layered lighting is the best way to make a calm home.

Layering your lighting gives you more control over how a room looks and feels. Overhead lighting is necessary, but it can sometimes feel harsh or stark. By incorporating elements like table lamps, wall sconces, dimmer switches, and even candles, you can soften a space with just the flick of a switch.

Belvedere 4 Floor Plan, Laned Collection, Parkland Community, Edmonton, Alberta

6. Bring the outdoors inside

One of the design trends for 2024 is biophilic design – bringing the calm, good feelings we experience in nature into our homes. It focuses on incorporating those natural aspects that positively contribute to our overall health, wellness, and productivity. There are various ways to bring in the outdoors, so you’re sure to find one that best speaks to your style.

One of the easiest ways to bring in the outdoors is with plants and flowers. Whether you prefer a stunning floral arrangement or some hearty houseplants, having greenery in your home is naturally calming and can help make the air healthier.

If your green thumb needs some work, you can always go for artificial plants or pivot to other natural materials. You can embrace organic elements with décor or furniture made from wood or natural stone.

7. Limit technology

Establishing boundaries for technology use within your home is crucial for fostering a calm and mindful environment. Creating a tech-free zone or implementing screen-free times during the day creates opportunities for deeper human connection and authentic engagement. By intentionally carving out time and space away from screens, you reduce your stress and anxiety to create a more peaceful, balanced lifestyle.

Condo Collection, Towngate North Community, Alexandria, Virginia

Creating a calm home is not just about aesthetics; it’s a fundamental investment in our mental and emotional well-being. By implementing these tips, you can transform your home into a peaceful sanctuary where you can unwind, recharge, and find inner calm in your daily life.

Let us help you find your new home! Explore where we build and connect with our sales team when you’re ready to learn more. We’ll be expecting you!