Home Interior by Kelly Wearstler
Creating an interior space that truly feels ‘homey’ can be achieved through various factors and elements to evoke a sense of belonging and comfort. Personalization stands as a cornerstone, offering a reflection of one’s individuality and identity within the walls by the selection of colors, as well as selecting furnishings, and decorative objects.
Moreover, the olfactory dimension should not be overlooked, for familiar scents possess a remarkable ability to infuse spaces with warmth and nostalgia, instantly transporting one to the comforting embrace of home- such as the scent of a favorite candle, these cues can work in creating that ‘homey’ ambiance.
From a design perspective, a home should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also functional, and seamlessly integrated into the rhythm of daily life. Spaces should be thoughtfully arranged and tailored to accommodate the needs and activities of its occupants.
The lack of these elements may lead to the feeling of unwelcomness and feeling like you don’t belong in your own place.
This is a really thoughtful response to the prompt. Oftentimes in design, we get so caught up in the visual aesthetics of a space that we forget about designing for the rest of the senses. Olfactory cues, such as familiar scents, adds a sense of warmth and nostalgia to a space and perfectly encapsulates a holistic design approach.
Your criteria for a ‘homey’ space embodies the values of the Arts and Crafts movement. Creating a home involves personalization, functionality, and sensory engagement. Like the movement’s emphasis on individuality, selecting colors, handcrafted furnishings, and decorative objects reflects personal identity and fosters human connection. Finally, the functionality and thoughtful arrangement ensure spaces accommodate daily activities, reflects the movement’s focus on practicality.