Well, it’s pretty safe to assume you have spent a lot of time at home lately. There are certainly lots of unanswered questions, uncertainty, and anxiety associated with our current situation regarding COVID-19. Each of us are affected, and it’s the first time in a long time society, widespread across the globe, has felt so vulnerable. But in times like these, I think it’s important to hold fast to the things that comfort us.
The word “home” stirs up emotions deep inside of me. Home is not four walls, the latest furnishings, and a space that looks like the cover of a magazine. What makes a house a home is far deeper than that. “Home” to me, means a lot of things: safety, shelter, love, memories, a constant, a place to gather and love on others, and really an outward symbol of who you are, and your journey to the present.
From a design perspective, “home” is the feeling that stirs inside you when you are living in your space. When you look around maybe you see that cozy couch you love to sink into, the fireplace that you get going on cold winter nights, that cake stand you display proudly that belonged to your grandmother, the china you picked out for your wedding. I think in this day and age it’s very hard to not fall into the trap of seeing OTHER spaces and wanting to mirror them. But when you choose furnishings in your home that have no meaning or connection, it won’t feel like home at all.
Many of us are using this time at home to “catch up” on life. Organize drawers, switch closets over to spring, etc.… however, I challenge you to truly have some time of reflection over the coming weeks to consider how your home “feels.” We are forced to slow down right now, and it’s a great time to re-prioritize what truly matters. In scary moments, we all need a safe haven to dwell in, and cling tightly to those that matter most. When our homes reflect ourselves as a family, and we proudly display those heirlooms, family photos, and items that are unique to us, we can feel the comfort of home regardless of what is going on in the world around us.
What does the word “home” mean to you?
I’d love to see photos of the pieces that touch your heart!
