Needless to say, there are plenty of frustrations about a new house. You’ve had to unpack, decorate, and maybe even make some modifications because you can’t agree on how the previous owners decorated. You probably have some pretty innovative ideas, right? But overall, even with all of this work, it’s a pretty exciting opportunity for the most part. While yes, moving into a new house is a thrilling adventure, the process of transforming it into a comfortable and familiar haven often takes more time than expected.
It’s really hard to say how long this could actually take. Besides, it’s one of those new house frustrations anyway. It’s ultimately up to you when it comes to getting it comfortable and the timing of it. But it’s totally understandable if you’re just wanting all of this to be as quick as possible. So, with all that said, here’s what you can do to make your new house feel like a home!
Why Your New House Takes Time to Feel Like Home
So, why exactly does it take time? Of course, it’s going to take some time to unpack and decorate to your liking, but that feeling of it not quite being your humble adobe, or that feeling that it’s not quite yours, feels strong for the first few weeks or months, right? For the most part, it’s going to vary for everyone, but here are some common reasons as to why it’s like this.
There’s the Adjustment Period
You have to keep in mind that moving into a new home is a significant life change, and like any transition, it requires an adjustment period. The unfamiliar surroundings, new routines, and different spatial dynamics can make you feel a bit disoriented initially. It’s perfectly normal to take time to acclimate to your new environment.
You’ll Be Creating a Personal Connection
A house is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a canvas waiting for the brushstrokes of your life experiences. This is a space where memories are created, not just a space designated for sleeping. As you gradually fill your new home with memories, personal touches, and familiar items, you’re not just decorating — you’re crafting a narrative that turns a house into your unique space. This process of creating a personal connection cannot be rushed.
It Takes Time to Discover the House Itself
Something to really keep in mind is getting to know the nooks and crannies of your new abode takes time. Seriously, every creaky floorboard, quirky cabinet, and sunlit corner holds the potential for discovery. So, just be sure to take the time to explore your home, learn its quirks, and understand its unique character. This exploration adds layers of familiarity that contribute to a sense of comfort.
Establishing Routines That Feels Right
Home is not just a physical space; it’s a backdrop for the rituals and routines that shape your daily life. So, when it comes to establishing new habits and routines in your new home, you really need to just think about the fact that all of this merely takes time. Whether it’s your morning coffee spot, a designated reading corner, or the perfect spot for a Sunday brunch, these routines gradually infuse comfort and familiarity into your living space.
The Curation of the Space Itself
This is probably the biggest, but when you’re first moving in, it’s empty. It doesn’t immediately scream “you” at the start until your things are set up the way you want them to be. So, it’s really all about personalization since this is actually the key factor in making a house feel like home. It’s not just about filling the space with furniture (even if you’ve already owned this); it’s about curating an environment that resonates with your personality. From selecting the right color palette to displaying cherished mementos, personalizing your space is a process that evolves over time.
It Just Takes Time to Cultivate That Sense of Ownership
There’s a big difference between owning a house and the feeling of having a sense of ownership. The latter comes from investing time and effort into making the space your own. So, as you tackle home improvement projects, rearrange furniture, and add your personal touch, you’re not just living in a house; you’re cultivating a sense of ownership that contributes to a feeling of comfort and security.
Building That Emotional Connection to It
It was already somewhat mentioned above, but emotional connections are the threads that weave a house into a home. Whether it’s the laughter shared with loved ones in the living room or the quiet moments of reflection in your favorite corner, these emotional experiences accumulate over time. It’s these connections that imbue your new home with a warmth that cannot be hurried.
Nostalgia
Again, this sort of piggybacks on what was said just right above. You need to keep in mind that homes become comfortable through the memories created within their walls. It takes time for your new house to accumulate the stories, laughter, and shared experiences that will eventually become cherished memories. So, with that said, nostalgia plays a significant role in making a house feel like home, and it’s a sentiment that develops naturally over time.
So, with all of that said, it’s really about embracing the unfolding adventure and remembering that the true essence of a home is not just in its structure but in the life that unfolds within it. As the days pass, you’ll find that the comfort and familiarity you seek are organically woven into the fabric of your new home. It’s going to take time, and it’s also about making an effort in your new home.
What Can You Do to Speed Up the Process?
What was said directly above is that it takes time, it’s going to take effort, and it’s also going to be about creating memories. But who wants to live in the house for months at a time, and it just feels uncomfortable? If you’re living in a space that doesn’t feel like it’s yours (kind of like staying at a hotel or family’s house), it just feels uncomfortable. You feel like you’re almost in limbo. Who would even want to deal with that? Well, with that said, here’s what you can do!
Unpack with Purpose
Alright, so when anyone moves anywhere, this is obviously going to be the very first step! So, the process of unpacking can be daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to infuse your personality into each room. You need to curate over time, but having the familiar stuff you packed up from the old house is going to be the first step in the right direction. So, just go ahead and start with the essentials, but don’t rush the process. In general, just try to unpack deliberately, taking the time to consider where each item will go. Plus, be sure to display cherished mementos and photos that bring a sense of familiarity and warmth.
Is This New House in Working Order?
Even if you have lived in a house for years, the comfort just goes out the window if there are parts of the house that aren’t working as they should. So then throw a new house into the mix that you’re trying to adjust in, and it’s probably going to feel next to impossible to actually feel comfortable, right?
If the hot water isn’t working, you can’t clean or bathe, which is incredibly uncomfortable; faulty wiring means that you can’t even use certain outlets, or lights just won’t come on. Maybe it’s freezing in the house, and you need a furnace repair from Fox Family Heating and Air Conditioning. But in general, if aspects of the house aren’t working, then this immediately gives you a bad impression of the house; you’re stressed, and how could you even call this a home if these issues are happening right?
Set Up a Comfortable Retreat
In order to feel comfortable and at home mentally, you have to feel that way physically first. So, be sure to just make your bedroom a true retreat by investing in quality bedding and linens. Not just your bedroom but the living room or whatever other space you want to feel relaxed in.
If you can, try to choose colors and textures that evoke a sense of calm. Just be sure to personalize your rooms with items that make you happy, like soft lighting, your favorite books, or artwork that holds sentimental value. Think of it this way: it gives you a chance to be temporarily transported to your old house.
Consider a Housewarming Gathering
This within itself is a pretty fun time; you get to show off your new home, and you might even get some gifts! So, just go ahead and invite friends and family over to share your new space. Plus, if you think about it, hosting a housewarming gathering not only establishes positive memories in your new home but also helps you see your space through the eyes of others, providing valuable insights for further personalization.
