Within the home is where the most precious relationships develop, the most valuable life lessons are learned, and the sweetest feelings of love are shared. A home should be a welcoming place that represents the values and goals of the family its walls encircle. Whether you are just starting out in a tiny apartment or you have finally acquired the house of your dreams, the way you decorate can have a profound influence on your family life. Consider these simple suggestions when decorating your family's headquarters.
Choose colors that inspire and uplift moods
Ever since childhood, we have been asked, "What's your favorite color?" It turns out that personal preference may not be the only thing to consider when choosing color schemes for the home. Many colors are proven to have psychological effects that vary in intensity from one person to the next. A room with four yellow walls may provoke anxiety, while a single red wall can lift the mood and stimulate uplifting conversation. Pay attention to how you feel when visiting other homes or buildings. Take note of the effect your surroundings have on you and your family members. Thoughtfully choosing color combinations, patterns, and textures in furnishings can help create an uplifting atmosphere where family members are more inclined to demonstrate greater intelligence, kindness and patience, or simply have a better attitude.
Display artwork that balances comfort and style
Finding appropriate artwork and decorations for the home can be tricky. Many people adorn their homes with sentimental decorations acquired from travels or gifts from loved ones. Others may choose decorations and artwork based solely on their attractiveness rather than their sentimental value. Try to find a comfortable balance between the two. If keepsakes or gifts add to the atmosphere of a room, they should certainly be used. Souvenirs are perfect reminders of the experiences that have shaped your family. Artwork is typically a purchase based on attractiveness - for obvious reasons. If possible, try to find pieces that will gain meaning within your family. A store-bought portrait of a beautiful landscape, even if you've never visited it before, can represent your family's love of nature and gratitude for God's creations. If an abstract painting invokes feelings of peace, it may be just what your home needs.
Make family interaction the focal point of family rooms
The focus of family rooms has become the television. Replacing the historical fireplace as the focal point, flat screen televisions on swiveling wall mounts demand the attention of everyone in the room. Couches are positioned opposite it, accent chairs are angled toward it, and coffee tables are replaced with (or used as) foot stools to enhance the viewing experience. While television viewing may have its place in the home, it shouldn't be the primary function of the family room. Ask yourself if the arrangement of seats in your living spaces promote or discourage healthy interaction among family members. Is everyone facing an object or is the focus on each other? Furniture can easily be moved to accommodate movie night, so make interaction and togetherness the default setting of your family room.
The home is the hub of the family. At times it will be chaotic, noisy and messy. More often, it can be a place where family members are comfortable, uplifted and happy. Cultivate these feelings by making deliberate home décor choices that further the goals of your family life.
