How to Make a Mood: 5 Basic Elements for Creating an Awesome Home Atmosphere
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(Image credit: Rebecca Bond)
That je ne sais quoi feeling certain rooms seem to exude? Those are spaces with a serious mastery of mood. A room’s atmosphere — how it feels to be in it and experience it — isn’t just important to places like restaurants and bars; a home can have an awesome atmosphere, too. Here’s how.
1. Know what mood you want to go for
You looking for a bright white and cheery space? Peruse your inspiration boards to find rooms that instantly feel that way to you and then pay attention to what colors they use, what textures they apply in the space, how they arrange their furniture. Think about your favorite hotels, restaurants and bars and consider what is that you like about them, interior design-wise.
Lighting
Lighting is key to any mood you’re trying to make. Go back to step one and remember what mood you’re trying to make your room exude. Sunny Greek patio overlooking the sea? Make sure you’ve got plenty of natural light pouring in. Want more of a speak-easy feel? Dim those lights and play with dark furnishings to add to the drama.
(Image credit: Marcia Prentice)
Hit on all senses
Atmosphere isn’t just comprised of looks; it involves all your senses working as one. So find a scent that complements your perfect mood (even if that’s just the smell of a delicious meal you’re cooking!). Consider texture when it comes to crafting a mood. Think about sounds (can you say mini water feature?) or music.
4.
Add an element of discovery
(Image credit: Marcia Prentice)
5.
Make it feel a little tucked away
Closely related to the idea of feeling like you’re discovering a moody area is the idea of having some privacy — feeling like you’re a little set apart from the world. So add in some curtains or dividers. Or distinguish an area with light. Do something to make an area you’re trying to up the atmosphere in feel tucked away.
How do you create a mood and an atmosphere in your home? Share your ideas in the comments below!