You’ve signed the papers, packed the boxes, and moved into your new home. Are you excited? Stressed out? Or some combination of the two? Find some balance by making the place your own. Whether you display family photos, artwork, or travel souvenirs, adding your personal touches to a new space creates a familiar, soothing environment. Here are some tips for older adults to consider when decorating a new home.
Plan Ahead. Unpacking can be chaotic and overwhelming, so before getting started, make a plan. If you intend to incorporate items you already own in your new look, you can decide which to display and which to put away. Or, if you’re hoping to start fresh, you can determine what else to buy as you get used to the space. Ask yourself which type of design to aim for. Do you prefer a minimalist look, with clean lines? Or do you prefer a traditional space? Jotting down some ideas can serve as a guide as you pull things together.
Safety First. For seniors, safety considerations are of the utmost importance when decorating a new home. Features like lever-style door knobs, low-pile carpeting, and well-lit rooms are a must. Rocker-style light switches that glow in the dark will help you navigate at night, while skipping throw rugs will help you avoid trip hazards. Be cautious about keeping power cords and sharp furniture corners out of your footpaths.
Set the Mood. When creating ambiance in your new home, consider color, lighting, texture, and the other key elements of design. For example, jute area rugs and pale-blue paint will create a light and airy space, while jewel-tone pillows against dark wood result in a cozy, earthy room. Love the outdoors? Incorporate houseplants, natural tones, and photos of scenic landscapes into your interior.
Consider Practicality. Decorating your new home isn’t just about appearances, it can also make your day-to-day tasks more efficient. For example, using decorative bins and baskets to organize often-used items will make them easier to find. Wall shelving and cubbies can serve as focal points while hiding unsightly cables.
Rightsize Furniture. Transitioning to senior living often means downsizing. But when it comes to furniture, it also means rightsizing—choosing the right furniture for the space at hand and for your body type. Oversized couches and extended dining room tables may have served you well in a house full of children, but might not when it comes to senior living. Compact furniture and multi-purpose items, such as a coffee table that doubles as storage, are better bets.
Make it personal. A new house should feel like a home, and there’s no better way to create a homey atmosphere than by displaying cherished items. You can create stunning family photo displays by having them printed on oversized canvas or laid out gallery style on a wall. Digital picture frames that project images from your electronic device let you show off a new photo every day. Other ways to personalize your space include showcasing souvenirs from past travels or displaying handmade items.
Decorating Your Unique Cumberland Village Home
From our luxury patio homes to studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments (as well as assisted living flats), Cumberland Village offers new homes in all shapes and sizes. No matter what type of senior living space is right for you, decorating your Cumberland Village home adds a personal touch that will make it your own for years to come.
