7 ways to create a more calming and peaceful home

WORDS: YEONG SASSALL PRODUCER: SASKIA TILLERS Photograph by Nicole Franzen in partnership with

If the past couple of years have left any kind of lasting impression, it’s the value of carving out a quiet and calming space in your own home. Photographed by Renée Kemps, styled by Nune

Certainly, spending so much time indoors in the past two years has taught us that interiors matter, and they can have a huge impact on how we think and feel. Photographed by Vigo Jansons and interior design by Olga Ashby

So, in the interest of creating a more calming space, we chat to New York-based interior designer Cara Woodhouse about how to quieten your home—and reap the mental and physical benefits. Photographed by Suiyu Studio

1. Read the room

“When creating a calming space, it’s important to assess: what makes you feel comfortable and cosy? Lighting, materials, colours? On the other hand, determine details that make you feel the opposite so that you can swap those out,” says Woodhouse. Photographed by Suiyu Studio and interior design by Ecru Studio

2. Sense check

“When it comes to feeling calm at home, there are certain sensory triggers that you should pay attention to,” suggests Woodhouse. Note textures, materials and fragrances that make you feel relaxed, and find ways to add them to your space. Image credit: courtesy of Cara Woodhouse Interiors

3. Emphasise rooms

“Consider emphasising the most important rooms in your home— your bedroom, as this is where you rest and wake up; your living room, as this is where you entertain and lounge; and your kitchen, as this is where you fuel yourself,” says Woodhouse. Photographed by Matthew Millman, architecture by Walker Warner Architects and interior design by Leverone Design

4. Take it to bed

“Soft colours create a sense of comfort and safety, and you can incorporate them into window treatments, bedding and accessories.” While red isn't recommended as it’s a stimulating colour, pale pinks, blues, greens and neutrals are ideal. Photographed by Adrian Gaut and Douglas Friedman and interior design by Alexander Design

5. Out of sight, out of mind

“It's crucial to keep anything stressful out of sight. This includes clutter, work items like laptops (don't bring them to bed with you!) and laundry.” Remember the saying, ‘tidy home, tidy mind’?—you better believe it. Image credit: courtesy of Cara Woodhouse Interiors

6. Get in the mood

“For your bathroom, recessed lighting with dimmers is key. You can adjust the light based on needs and mood. Keeping your vanity clean with limited clutter is great and splurging on candles or flowers by the sink will add extra serenity.” Photographed by Renée Kemps, interior design and styled by Nune

7. Keep it fresh

In the kitchen, be sure to add calming but appetising aromas and don't use cleaning products that interfere with cooking smells, says Woodhouse. “And your countertops should remain clutter-free; keeping the spaces bright makes it feel clean, calm, spacious, and comfortable.” Photographed by Nicole Franzen and interior design by And Studio

Serene spaces.

in partnership with SWIPE UP