Creating hideaways at home

The past one and a half years have taken a lot out of us. Between home offices , home schooling and home workouts , our entire lives have played out within our own four walls. So it’s all the more important that we set aside a space where we can take it easy, escape and have some time for ourselves.

Everyday life can present many challenges, both big and small. Whether you’re faced with stress at work, a rainy summer or even a pandemic, a haven all of your own can help you recharge your batteries, unwind and have some time to yourself. That’s what self-care is all about – focusing on your own physical, mental and emotional well-being. And it doesn’t have to involve visiting a spa or booking a wellness weekend. Small quiet zones in your own home can offer refuge, comfort and security.

Having time for yourself means something different to everyone. For one person it may be a yoga session or a good book, for another it’s enjoying a cup of tea in complete peace and quiet. Whatever type of self-care you choose to recharge your batteries, the important thing is to dedicate a place for it at home. Whether it’s a whole room or just a small area, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to create the perfect sanctuary.

Put things in order

Clutter can be overwhelming. For your space to become a place of refuge, it will need to be tidy. As you sort through things, ask yourself: do they bring me joy? If not, it’s time to part with them. After all, these things take up space in your head as well as in your home.

Natural light

If possible, set up your personal sanctuary near a window. It’s been proven that natural light lifts the mood and restores energy levels throughout the day.

Find harmony through feng shui

Feng shui is definitely more than just an amusing phenomenon. It’s based on Chinese philosophy and helps to make the home welcoming. Feng shui allows positive energy to flow by arranging furniture in a certain way.

Keep your workspace separate

Working from home has become part of everyday life. It’s therefore all the more important that we create a healthy work-–life balance. Your personal haven should be clearly separated from your workspace, both visually and, if possible, physically. That’s the only way you’ll really be able to switch off.

Go offline

Computers, smartwatches, tablets, smart homes: a large part of daily life is dominated by technology. With gadget-free zones, you can escape the world of constant connectivity. Even a brief digital detox helps the mind relax and recuperate.

Once you’ve found the right place for self-love, me time and relaxation, it’s time to think about furniture and decoration. The general rule here is, of course, that this space is all about individuality, about connecting with yourself and finding peace – this should also be reflected in your choice of furnishings. Furniture and accessories that give you the feeling of being enfolded in a big hug are ideal. They provide familiarity and invite you to snuggle down.

To get the feeling of being securely cocooned, one of the key elements to get right is the seating. An armchair with soft upholstery, a meditation cushion or a swing chair are tempting spots to sit back and relax after a tiring day. Add home textiles for even more cosiness. Cushions and blankets made of wool, satin or linen feel good against the skin and will give your sanctuary a warmer appearance.

Crystals, stones or a small Zen garden are great options when it comes to bringing a little bit of nature and the associated feelings of calm into your own home. Plants are also important for inner peace. Whether freshly cut blooms or potted plants, flowers will inject a sense of lightness into your chill-out corner.

The way you use colour in your sanctuary can also introduce a calm atmosphere to your home. To allow your body and mind to relax, follow the motto “less is more”. Even subtle, natural cream tones are enough to achieve greater visual tranquillity. Dark and muted shades can be used to add splashes of colour. Deep reds, pastel pinks or low-key ethnic patterns radiate warmth. Add personal accessories and decorative items to give your hideaway a finishing touch. This may include a favourite book, a favourite mug or photos of loved ones – whatever gives you a feeling of comfort and security.

Scents evoke memories. Whether it’s the sunscreen that transports you straight to the beach or the smell of freshly baked cookies that instantly conjures up a warm, Christmassy feeling. Scents can create moments of pure relaxation in your sanctuary, too. Natural aromas such as essential oils are ideal. Simply add a few drops to a diffuser and inhale deeply. Incense sticks are also good for relieving tension. Lavender, eucalyptus, camomile and rose are particularly recommended to promote relaxation.

Cocooning , zoning and comfort : the latest interior design trends reveal that our homes are increasingly important to us. And that isn’t going to change any time soon. So it’s all the more vital that we create places to escape to within our own four walls. Recover, recuperate, switch off and recharge – it’s all possible in a private sanctuary, designed purely to meet our own personal needs.

Do you want to leave your cares behind? On ambista you’ll find just the right furnishings to create your very own home haven.