Your home should be your personal sanctuary – a place that feels as comforting as it looks beautiful.

Short of painting your walls a cheery yellow color and adding smiley face decorations everywhere (which would probably make it look more like a Fun House), there are easier ways to make your home feel happier (while still looking stylish).

How To Make Your Home Happier

In today’s home decorating guide, learn simple tips and inspiring ideas on how to design a happy home.

Create a Cozy Corner

After a long, busy day, one of the best ways to relax is by taking refuge in a cozy corner.

A cozy corner should have a comfortable (yet stylish) chair (like a classic Barcelona Chair) accessorized by a sumptuous pillow (such as a faux fur pillow), which is as glamorous as it is comforting to rest on.

A stylish side table is a must-have for any cozy corner, as it’s the perfect place to set a glass of wine (or a cup of tea, if you prefer), a lit scented candle (like this dreamy Voluspa Candle), and an inspiring book (such as the adorable book, 365 Days of Happiness).

One of the reasons why a book like this is great to keep out is because it encourages you to take a moment out of each day to find a new reason to be happy. Each page is filled with positive messages, such as “All inspirations are sparks to enrich your life, and they bring you clarity on either how you want it… or how you don’t want it. Be inspired, and be an inspirer. That IS happiness!”.

A few other inspiring books to have around are Life Incorporated, The Power of Now, and Power Your Happy.

Even if you only have 20 minutes, make it a habit each day to enjoy some peace and quiet in your cozy corner.

Accessorize Your Shelves with Inspiring Pieces

Since our home is a reflection of our personal style, the memories we’ve created in our lives, and the people who bring us joy and love, we should be mindful when decorating our shelves. Minimize clutter and only display items that truly bring out your inner happiness.

Accessorizing your shelves with inspiring pieces can help you visually be reminded of what makes you happy. From an antique microscope that you and your beau found out a flea market one day, to collectibles that remind you of a special moment in your life, filling your home with only items you love will bring you more happiness.

Did you know that aromas have an effect on our senses? Scents like lavender and chamomile (which can be found in this gorgeous Bijou Candle) are known for their calming qualities. That’s why lighting a scented candle can be so relaxing. Not to mention – candlelight always creates a warm ambiance, which is sure to make you happier.

Add Fun, Playful Accents

Whimsical items (like a fun polka dot vase) add a playful touch to any space. Even if your home is sophisticated and modern, adding playful accents that exude a childlike quality can instantly bring a smile to your face. That’s why creating a living room that’s both stylish and joyful to look at is essential to your happiness.

When life gets serious, that’s the exact time when you need to remember to laugh. Life is a matter of perspective – so it’s up to you to see the humorous side of any situation (even in challenging times). That’s why playful accents are so important to have around – they remind you to look on the bright side.

Bring Nature into Your Home with Plants

Not only do plants create a healthier atmosphere for you to live in (since they naturally create fresh air to breathe), they also add color and vibrancy to any space.

In addition, houseplants can instantly change the look of any room – from adding a tropical oasis vibe (with an exotic Elephant Ear Plant) to exuding a refined, sophisticated look (with an elegant Orchid). Houseplants are one of the simplest ways to boost your happiness while creating the mood you’re after.

Add Fresh Flowers 

Last, but certainly not least – one of the simplest ways to make your home happier is by adding fresh flowers.

A vase filled with cheery, colorful blooms is the easiest way to bring out your inner sense of joy. When you walk into your home, one of the first things you should see in your entryway should be something beautiful. Whether you prefer going to the Farmer’s Market or shopping at a nearby grocery store, fresh flowers are one of the least expensive ways to make your home feel happier. For less than $15, a bouquet of flowers can brighten any home.

For more home decorating tips, check out the Home Decorating section on Inspirations & Celebrations.

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