Simple changes to make a happy lockdown home

This week I’m focusing on the little touches that make you happy. Last week with a boiler on the blink, we had barely any central heating. I made it my mission to keeping everyone warm, watered, and fed to get them through the first week back in lockdown.

It got me thinking about the small things we can do to our home interiors that bring a smile to your face or a feeling of comfort that we all need right now.

1. Creating a simple arrangement that makes you smile as you walk past

This photo from my kitchen sums up what’s making me happy right now. My husband picked me a bunch of garden foliage to thank me for looking after everyone, simple but I loved his gesture. I bought this winter comfort candle from The self Care co, It is lit every morning even though it’s not dark, it’s a treat, smelling heavenly which is soothing and calming. The LOVE mug is by Arne Jacobsen, is used as a plant pot as the colours matched so well.

2. Make lavender drawer cushions from an old item of clothing

My father died just before Christmas, for comfort and memories, I made a lavender cushion for each of my family using one of my dads favourite shirts. I keep mine in my drawers that I open daily, it’s a lovely moment each day.

3. Buy yourself a new motivational print

I have always loved quotes in artwork and I think this print from Not on the high street is very poignant of the moment and helps us to be reflective.

4. Paint up a picture frame

I have given the frame on this beautiful hand-stitched fashion illustration by Emma Cowlam a lift and refresh. Painting the frame using a tester pot of yellow emulsion paint, masking the glass to keep it neat, then finishing off with a coat of the versatile Mod podge matt varnish. Simple but noticeably uplifting.

5. Creating your workspace to set up a positive mindset

Starting my working day with a simple routine sets me up with a positive mindset. I fill my diffuser with fresh water and add some essential oil, I enjoy choosing my smell for the day. I light the candle, turn on my pretty Kartell table light and glance at my family in the photos. This creates an environment that grounds and makes me feel happy and ready to work.

6. Make time for a proper coffee break and snack

Choose to make break time a big treat, hot drinks in your favourite mugs. Homemade The Happy Pear, beetroot brownies (made by my eldest daughter) on dainty plates. Everyone will appreciate the effort made. Hand made ceramic mug made locally by Liz Vidal. Why not make this tricky time special and support each other through this with little touches of kindness.

Breaktime edit

I love enjoying the moment, have a morning or afternoon break. I have found some more tempting mugs and plates for you to enjoy, a bit of self-love or love for one another.

Breaktime edit affiliate links.

1. Oliver Bonas - Purple Glass Spoon & Sugar Pot £9.50

2. Anthropologie - Dalila Ombre Bowl £12

3. Oliver Bonas - Gold Metal Wildflower Teaspoons Set of Four £15

4. Anthropologie - Dog-a-Day Dessert Plate £12

5. Oliver Bonas - Belia Pink Ceramic Mug £14

6. Oliver Bonas - Star Alphabet Initial Coaster £1.50

If we can create a positive mindset and environment around us with simple changes it will help us to enjoy moments in the day and find the good in this time that we feel we have little control of.

Sending my love to you, keep strong and I’m always happy to chat to anyone who needs some interior help.