Our Home Shows Who We Are: Let’s Be Intentional

*Collaborative Post

We spend so much time at home and might not think twice about the actions we do there as we escape and unwind in this space after a tough day. But it’s such an important place that it deserves your attention. This is the place where you raise babies, have important talks with your partner, and invite loved ones for dinner. It can be a sanctuary, too. 

In addition, your home says a lot about you to those who have come over to visit, reflecting our style, values, and more. Let’s be intentional with our decorating choices and create a home that truly reflects who we are! Here are tips to help you do so.

Green Vibes in the Kitchen 

Bringing your eco-friendly spirit to the kitchen doesn’t have to be difficult. You already recycle tins, use reusable water bottles, compost regularly, and make natural cleaning products. There is more you can do, and that may surprise you.

For example, look at the floor under your feet. Is it sustainably made? If you’re unsure, do some research online to find out. Maybe a new floor that has more of a green manufacturing focus is going to be a gift to yourself next year.

As for the appliances on the counter and in the cupboards, have you been thinking about getting some new ones? If so, perhaps buying used is the way to go. Give a second life to a perfectly good toaster or another item that someone who is moving away no longer needs. Rather than buying new and contributing to consumerism, you’re making use of something that’s already out there, and that’s an eco-conscious move.

Decorating with Your Values in Mind

When you look around at the walls of your home, do you see artwork that has no deeper meaning for you? What about the knicknacks on the table and the books on the shelves? 

Being intentional around the home involves thinking about what you surround yourself with and choosing things that are very “you.” Of course, that becomes “you and your family” when you have a partner and kids, so ask for their input about what they’d like to see in the dining room and other shared spaces. The kids’ bedrooms can be full of what they like; you’re just there to help them make it happen, right mom?!

If you like modern style, unique wall art from https://printswithpassion.com/ could be what you get next. Perhaps your love of animals shines through with a colorful canvas of a horse in the living room. Or, maybe you are into the ‘70s vibe and want to frame vintage posters. What you do is up to you and the other household members. Creating a home interior that reflects your personality is empowering, and… it’s about to happen for you, which is exciting.

Bring the Outside In

If you love Mother Nature, why not bring more of the outside into the home by adding plants and other natural elements? Just be sure the greenery you choose is not toxic, given the little ones and pets whose health you don’t want to put at risk. You might also consider putting the plants in places they can’t reach for their safety, just in case.

Plants have an added effect of helping purify the air. Certain houseplants, like English Ivy or bamboo palm, are better at this than others. They can help reduce pollutants in the air, such as formaldehyde and trichloroethylene. That can contribute to a healthier home environment. You’ll have to remember to water them now and then, though! Who knows, you may just have found that gardening is a new passion of yours.

Another way to bring a bit more of Mother Earth indoors is by adding shells in different ways. Try collecting shells with the kids at the beach as a fun outing, and then have them help you decorate picture frames and fill clear vases with the treasures found. What a cool way to decorate—and budget friendly. That could be the start of your DIY family, working on crafting projects together on the weekends and creating memories together.

A Few Last Words

The home is where you spend so much time, from caring for the kids to finding moments of calm at night when everyone else has gone to bed. It’s where you want to feel most comfortable, and when your place reflects who you are, it’s more likely to feel that way. May the tips above help you on your eco-friendly, house-improving journey!

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.