Well done interiors, storage made good use of, and a proper cleaning schedule can create a warm and welcoming home
Well done interiors, storage made good use of, and a proper cleaning schedule can create a warm and welcoming home
During the pandemic years, the only place where we could be and see things around us slowly for the better was our home. That feeling of security and feeling positive couldn’t come from anywhere else. There are a few things to do – for us and our guests – to create a warm and welcoming home. These are not necessarily challenging, but require our time and consideration.
first impression: Before you can welcome visitors in, your entryway does. To create a sense of anticipation, choose a dramatic element. Paint a wall a bright color or get it printed on designer wallpaper/fabric. “An eye-catching collection, be it photos, masks, shot glasses or posters, attracts interest. “A smart array of lighting fixtures creates a sense of drama, as does a bespoke front door,” says Vadodara-based architect and designer Sonali Desai. Don’t forget to lock the interior doors – you don’t want guests to see dirty dishes in the sink!
Operation Cleaning: Big or small, every house is clean. A cleaning program (that is followed) ensures that the basics are always dealt with and that you never get icy under cleaning tasks. Build a fairly easy screed (keep the whole family in the loop if you want them to help). Things to put on the weekly list include bed linen and curtain changes, linen laundry, toys, windows, kitchens, bathrooms, porches, and fans, lights, and switchboards. Monthly tasks may include replacing kitchen cabinets, bookshelves and closets.
Organize: If you don’t organize efficiently enough storage is of no use. Done regularly, organization takes about 15 minutes a day—a small price to pay for a life with low stress levels. Organize a point of entry to eliminate last minute rush. Opt for versatile furniture in all rooms. Coffee tables and ottomans with storage options, entertainment units with drawers and cabinets, box beds, and built-ins keep clutter away. “In the kitchen, organize things in such a way that you spend the least amount of time looking for them. Bills, papers and documents need to be cleaned regularly and kept in clean files, says Sonali.
stay safe: Security products ensure that your home remains your sanctuary. Choose from intrusion alarm systems (wired, wireless, or hybrid), biometric fingerprint door locks (which allow you to press the sensor with your fingerprint to open the door), and video door phones. Hang the fire extinguisher in sight. Keep good lighting outside and notify neighbors when you are not in town. “Indoors, the bathroom is the number one accident-prone area. Don’t forget the grab bar and non-slip bath mat. Cleaners, acids and other potentially toxic items should be safely kept away,” advises Ahmedabad-based designer Kirtan Bhatt.
make a wish: and complete it. Take apart and add a feature to your dream home – it could be a breakfast counter, a silk carpet, a la-di-dah bar, a home theater system, a built-in barbecue on the terrace, or that fancy La-Z -Bye. Save when needed, this one extra can take any room from drab to fab.
sit back and relax. Everything ship-shaped, but no fun? Try taking out some family time. It may be impossible to cut the connection for it to work fully, but take the time. You can hold onto things you haven’t done in a while, or try something for the first time. Either way, you’re going to have a great experience.