Derek Goodman
The pandemic brought about huge changes in the amount of time people spend at home. The rise in the working-from-home trend has brought about the need for people to adjust their homes to match this new lifestyle.
You can make many changes around your home to promote it as a space for work and leisure, and the changes don’t have to be expensive or difficult. Whether you want to make your home office more comfortable or add to the ambiance of your home, here are a few ways to spruce up your sanctuary from Icon Refined.
Add Houseplants
Studies have shown many physical and psychological benefits of having plants in your home. Houseplants can help:
- Reduce stress levels
- Improve the air quality
- Increase productivity
- Increase feelings of well-being
- Reduce the effects of job stress and anxiety
- Promote faster recovery from illnesses
- Sharpen your attention
Different varieties of plants can bring about various benefits and also require different levels of care, so look into some plant advice to see which ones work best for you and your home.
Create a Hobby Space
Having a hobby is a great way to disconnect from work mode, especially if you’re working from home. Hobbies can also help you release stress, boost your mood, and express yourself through a creative outlet. You can make it easier and more appealing to engage in your favorite hobby by allocating space in your home specifically for the activity. Not only will you have everything you need in one place, but having the space available can also motivate you to spend more time on your hobby.
Add an Outdoor Kitchen
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or a casual dinner party, an outdoor kitchen gives you the perfect place to socialize and enjoy good food. In addition, cooking outdoors is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful weather. To ensure your stovetop doesn’t get damaged from the heat, you may want to invest in an outdoor range hood. It will also keep your new outdoor kitchen area from getting dirty by pulling food oils out of the air.
If you’re planning to take on a major project such as building an outdoor kitchen, you’ll need to budget properly for it. If you lack the cash on hand, you may want to consider taking out a home equity loan or refinancing your mortgage. If you go the refinancing route, consider your loan-to-value ratio. If your LTV ratio has fallen, you may qualify for a lower interest rate on your refinance which can save you money every month. This may make budgeting easier for your home projects.
Declutter Your Home
Decluttering your home environment is one of the easiest ways to reduce stress. A cluttered house can make it harder for your brain to process information, making you more prone to frustration. When your space is put together and organized, you begin to feel more in control and tranquil as well. To make the job easier, focus on clearing one area of your house at a time. Get rid of the things you don’t need, and organize the rest efficiently.
Redecorate Your Rooms
Sometimes, a simple change in your environment can improve your mental health, bringing about tremendous feelings of freshness and excitement. The changes can be as simple as rearranging the furniture in your living room or painting your walls a different color. A new environment can refresh your senses and help you enjoy your home even more.
Invest in Your Home Office
If you find yourself working from home, it’s imperative to keep boundaries between your work and personal life. Allocating space in your home where you can work helps you stay organized, focused, and less stressed. If you spend long hours in front of your computer, it is worth investing in an ergonomic chair that keeps you comfortable and helps you retain good posture.
Transform Your Home
Revel in the fact that your home is all yours. Your home should be a reflection of your personality, so have some fun making improvements that bring you joy whether you’re redecorating, setting up a home office, or adding an outdoor kitchen.
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