Friday open thread: cosy interiors

[dolorosa_12]

I've just ordered a lot of wintry-scented candles online (and if anyone in the UK feels like doing the same, let me know, because I have a link through which, if others place orders, I get a discount), and that's basically what sparked this week's open thread prompt:

What, if anything, makes your house (flat/room in shared house/dwelling place whatever its specifics) feel like home?

I'm not talking about general decor preferences, but rather am talking specifically about physical objects (or concrete effects on the senses, like ... I don't know, the smell of freshly baked gingerbread or something), rather than house layout or location or overall vibes. For me, the basic elements are as follows:

Candles

String lights

Physical books

Flowers (fresh or dried)

Indoor plants

Throw rugs and other blanket-like coverings on couches, armchairs, etc

Taking things up to a slightly higher level (in the sense that I love them and they make houses feel like home, but if I don't have them all the time I don't feel completely bereft), I would add:

A decent collection of spices (ideally organised on a spice rack)

When seasonally appropriate, some outdoor plants that provide sustenance — even if it's just mint, thyme and rosemary, which are the hardiest of herbs

I always love seeing balconies in Mediterranean countries, and countries in south-eastern Europe, because so many of them are full of practical growing things on every available flat surface: tomatoes, chili, capsicum, cucumber and various herbs, even if the person otherwise lives in quite a tiny flat. (I assume this sort of thing goes on in other parts of the world, but that's region with which I've familiar in which it seems to be almost ubiquitous.)

In any case, what about you? What makes your home feel cosy?

Comments

[rmc28]

I think everywhere I've ever lived has had a load of physical books, even if these days I probably majority-read ebooks. I also like soft throw blankets and at least one comfy sofa.

Doors that shut, and enough space that everyone can be on their own behind a shut door when they need to, makes it a liveable home, given the combination of personalities we have in this household. Wifi, kettle and microwave contribute greatly to everyone's comfort.

[dolorosa_12]

I like the sound of everything about your house!

(Although it would never have occurred to me to list 'wifi' as an answer to this question, because I consider it so essential that it would be equivalent to listing 'running water'. You are of course right to list it — it contributes greatly to a house's sense of being home.)

[lirazel]

It really is so interesting that wifi has become a utility in the same way electricity or whatever is.

[dolorosa_12]

I know, right?

[lirazel]

Ooooh, shut doors! So underrated! I haaaaaaaaate the insistence on "open concept" and the assumption that everyone wants it!