Decorating Guides
Mood Makers: Make Your Home Feel Welcoming
Lighting, music, scent and other thoughtful touches create a welcoming home for guests — and for you and your family
When I ask my clients how they'd like their homes to feel, they almost always say "welcoming." Who wouldn't? We all want family and friends to feel welcome and at home in our house from the moment they walk in the front door. From deciding on an entryway design to choosing comfortable furniture, creating that feeling in any space is possible with a few of my top tricks.
The front entry of your home should usher in and welcome both family and guests. Great lighting, art or a mirror, a traditional grandfather clock and a succession of rugs help pull you into this entry.
In the old days, the entry acted as a reception area — a place to sit and wait for the homeowner to greet you and invite you into their inner sanctuary. A bench with cushions or pillows is still a great welcome for a front entry.
Soothing music piped throughout a home makes it feel occupied and welcoming. When music is wafting througout, who wouldn't want to come on in and see what's going on?
Aromatherapy, anyone? Activate the sense of smell with fragrant flowers or just-baked cookies to draw in your guests.
Upholstered ottomans are great additions to rooms that need softening up — your guests will feel welcome to prop up their feet and relax or use it as seating when speaking intimately with someone.
A warm fire in the hearth is one of the best ways to draw people in. A lovely fireplace is the natural focal point of any room, and lighting a fire in it will encourage folks to pull up a chair and relax.
Who wants to hang out in an interrogation room? Your guests aren't likely to linger if your only lighting is an overhead fluorescent. Lighting from multiple sources makes a room feel warm and welcoming.
A welcoming guest room always includes the special touches that help your friends settle in and feel at home. Good lighting, extra pillows and blankets and adequate side tables are essential.
A water carafe, a stack of books or magazines and bedside flowers make it even more special for your guests.
Your turn: How do you decorate to welcome your family and friends?
More Mood Makers:
Luxurious Looks on a Budget
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Your turn: How do you decorate to welcome your family and friends?
More Mood Makers:
Luxurious Looks on a Budget
Create a Peaceful Place
Small Rooms, Spacious Feel