Home is where everyone finds peace and tranquility, and reviving your home décor can change the overall look and feel of your place. Here are 5 tips to create a calming sanctuary:


Modern kitchen with accent lighting
Light each room with multiple sources and not just harsh overhead lighting. (©ML Harris, Adobe Stock Photos)

1. Light it Up

Every room should let in ample natural light. Exposure to sunlight boosts your Vitamin D intake, which reduces the risks of weight gain, heart disease and various cancers. It also can prevent bone loss and seasonal depression and improve your sleep.

So, position your sofa and chairs — wherever you normally sit down and spend most of your time — next to a window and enjoy that Vitamin D!

While natural light makes everything feel more open and cheerful during the day, you’ll also need to improve your lighting scheme for the evenings.

To add ambiance, avoid harsh overhead lights. Instead, use lighting that focuses on specific areas. For instance, mixing under-cabinet lighting, over-cabinet lighting, floor lamps and table lamps is one way to create a calming sanctuary.


Chelsea Lipford Wolf sitting on hardwood floor
Wood plank flooring adds instant warmth to any room.

2. Pick Soothing Designs and Materials

Think carefully about the designs of your bedding and upholstery. If you really want to create a calming sanctuary, avoid busy, complicated patterns with vibrant colors. They can not only hurt the room’s design; they also can cause stress.

Instead, consider solid colors, pastels or soft floral prints. Choose colors that match or complement the walls and floors and tie the room’s look together.

Wooden flooring is another soothing feature, compared to artificial flooring, due its warmth and natural origin.

Consider using acacia wood for flooring — it’s beautiful, durable and mold and mildew resistant. Bamboo and cork floors also are sustainable, making these three options environmentally friendly and calming!    

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Guest Contributor

Guest Contributor

Learn More