For some people, the advantages of living alone clearly outweigh the disadvantages, which is why they choose to stick to the solo lifestyle. However, the occasional feelings of loneliness are inevitable and perfectly normal.
If you are living on your own, make your home feel less lonely through design and decorating.
1. Personalize your space
One of the biggest perks of living alone is that you get to design your home the way you want. If you want elaborate railings, there’s no one stopping you from looking for the best balustrade suppliers in your area. If you want to hang a huge painting of Garfield in the living room, no one can say no.
Having a space that reflects your personality is a great way to feel warm in your own home, even if you have no one to share it with. So take advantage of the freedom that you have and design your house the way you want to. After all, it’s your place, and you can do anything you want with it.
2. Take care of plants
The presence of indoor plants is believed to help reduce stress, improve mood, and ease symptoms of depression. From a functional point of view, houseplants are also natural air purifiers and can eliminate odors in the house. Given these benefits, it’s wise to get at least two or three indoor plants to take care of. And because you have no roommates, there is more space for greenery.
3. Let in the light
Natural light can have many benefits for both your emotional and physical health. On the physical side, natural light boosts vitamin D absorption, improves sleep, and warms up the place on cold days. On the emotional side, having lots of natural light can ward off loneliness and seasonal depression.
To let in as much natural light as possible, raise the curtains to the ceiling height and opt for light-colored fabrics. It also helps to install mirrors to have the light bounce around the room, especially if your place is on the small side.
4. Incorporate pops of color
Even if your apartment or house has a minimalist design, pops of color help raise the mood. Add color to your home by installing accent walls, hanging up artwork, painting furniture, and decorating with accent pieces (e.g., flowers, vases, plants, etc.).
Aside from making your space look warmer and inviting, color can have a positive effect on our minds. For instance, green accents against white walls can make you feel more relaxed, as opposed to seeing only natural colors.
5. Decorate with memories
Whether it’s a family picture or a stuffed animal that your best friend gave you, having items that remind you of your loved ones is an effective way to feel less lonely while living alone.
When it comes to fighting off the loneliness that comes with solo living, this article is just the tip of the iceberg. Aside from incorporating these design tips, find other ways to ward off the loneliness at home, such as embracing your solo activities, adopting a pet, or spending more time outdoors.