Mini Moves That'll Make You Love Your Home More

If you're in desperate need of a home refresh but aren't necessarily interested in a big DIY project or major renovation right now, these mini moves can help. Even little changes, like introducing houseplants or improving the smell of your house, will make you love your home a little bit more. Gather some simple home styling supplies—a fresh grocery store bouquet, a new hand soap, or an inexpensive pillow cover—and spend an afternoon giving your home a mini makeover following a few of the tips below.

Bring the Outdoors In

Adding natural elements that connect your space to the outdoors—especially houseplants—will instantly refresh any room. Add a flower stem in a bud vase to the bathroom or invest in a potted tree for your bedroom.

Tip: opt for these low-maintenance houseplants that will survive all year long.

Clear the Air

We tend to focus on how our homes look, but how they smell is also an important factor affecting how we feel. If you're spending lots of time at home, you may no longer even notice the scents in your space.

Start by trying these tricks to deodorize your home, then consider using an essential oil diffuser to waft a soothing scent, like lavender or eucalyptus.

Add Accent Lighting

Pro designers think a lot about lighting—and for good reason, it has a huge impact on the feeling of a space. Consider ways to add accent lighting around your home, whether it's a small table lamp on your kitchen counter, a bowl of string lights in the living room at holiday time, or a bedside sconce. Alternatives to harsh overhead lighting, such as floor lamps and table lamps, make a room feel cozier.

Invite Friends Over

Opening up your home to others will help you appreciate your space in new ways. Entertaining also creates meaningful memories tied to your home, no matter how casual or elaborate the event.

Plus, there's no better speed-cleaning motivation than knowing guests are coming over in an hour.

Get Outside

If you have an outdoor space, embrace the Norwegian concept of friluftsliv, or "free air life" all year round. In the winter, bundle up with blankets, and in the heat of summer, hand out paper fans and inexpensive misters to help guests stay cool.

Find Room for Fun

If you're working from home, it can feel like your house has turned into an office. Consider carving out space for hobbies. Go ahead, let the dining table get taken over by a giant jigsaw puzzle for a few days or make room for a pottery wheel in a spare bedroom.