Comfy & Cozy: 5 Things That Make Any House into a Home

Maybe you're moving into a new house. Maybe you're struggling to feel comfortable in the one that you already own. The good news is that you don't have to feel alienated in your own home; with these five tips, you can transform any living space into a cozy, comfortable domain that you can call your own.

1. Pictures

This is the easiest way to bring familiarity to a home. Plaster the faces of your friends and family all over it! Framed pictures can go on tables and mantles; blown-up family portraits can hang on the walls; progressive school photos can ascend up the staircase. You can even order personalized photo items like mugs and key chains with your photos printed on them.

2. Blankets

Our brains never really outgrow the need for a security blanket; we just pretend that they do. You can take advantage of this evolutionary quirk by buying or bringing blankets into your new living space. It doesn't matter if it's a beloved comfort item for a small child or a brand-new throw blanket for movie night; as long as it's yours, it will serve its purpose.

3. Dinnerware

Having your own plates and glasses will give your home a comfortable, lived-in feeling. Using strange utensils is a sign that you're in a strange place, but buying a personal set will bring you a sense of pride as a homeowner. Best of all, if you start your collection from scratch, you can finally own a matching set of dinnerware! Say goodbye to plates and bowls that clash with everything.

4. Foyer Table

It may sound like an oddly specific item, but every homeowner has some kind of table or countertop where they toss their keys, wallet and mail as soon as they get through the door. By establishing your "place" right after you move in, you can set into motion the habits and routines that will make you feel right at home.

5. Candles

Your sense of smell can help you adjust to your new home while your eyes are still struggling to take everything in. Do you love the fragrance of lavender or jasmine? Do you miss the smell of grandma's homemade chocolate chip cookies wafting from the kitchen? Buy scented candles to give all of your senses the feeling that you're home at last. These are just a few ways to turn a house into a home. At the end of the day, material possessions can only do so much; you'll need to spend time with your family in your new living space to truly make it feel like you belong there.