15 Hacks to make your new House feel like Home

Read our Latest Blogs

February 20, 2026
10 min read

Introduction

Buying a new home is an exciting milestone, often filled with a mix of emotions. The initial thrill of stepping into your dream home can make you feel on top of the world. But as the dust settles, it’s not uncommon to feel a sense of disconnect, anxiety, or even doubt about your decision. If you’ve been feeling this way, you’re not alone. Research shows that these feelings are normal and often stem from the stress of packing, moving, and adapting to a new environment. The good news is that settling in takes time, and with a few intentional steps, you can transform your new house into a place that truly feels like home. In this blog, we’ll explore 15 easy and practical hacks to help you feel comfortable and connected in your new space.

Key takeaway

What makes a house a home?

Turning a new house into a home is a gradual, personal journey. By focusing on organisation, comfort, meaningful decor, and simple everyday rituals, you can create a space that feels calm, welcoming, and reflective of your lifestyle, without the pressure of making everything perfect from day one.

These 15 life hacks are easy and simple to follow and are sure to make your transition into your new home a bit smoother and more organised. And remember, it is a process and takes some time, so don’t feel overwhelmed.

Hack #1: Start by Getting Organised

Starting your move with organisation ensures a smoother transition and helps you feel in control when settling into your new space. It’s hard to feel at ease when you’re surrounded by clutter. A disorganised place can feel overwhelming and chaotic, preventing it from truly feeling like your own.

The good news? A little organisation goes a long way! Start by tackling one area at a time: closets, kitchen cabinets, or any storage space that feels out of control. Invest in tools like labelled bins, baskets, and drawer dividers to create a system that works for you. Group similar items together and store them where they’re easy to find.

An organised home looks better and helps free up mental space, offering clarity and peace of mind. When everything has its place, you’ll spend less time hunting for things and more time enjoying your space.

Handy Tip: A small tray on your entryway console can hold keys, wallets, and sunglasses, keeping the space neat and functional.

Hack #2: Transform Your Bedroom into a Calm Retreat

Isn’t there something magical about sinking into your bed after a long day? A freshly made bed with crisp, clean sheets is the perfect way to end any day, good or bad. The bedroom is your personal retreat, so making it feel like home can help you settle down with ease.

You can start with soft, neutral bedding like cotton or linen for a relaxed feel and layer it with throws and cushions to add comfort and style. Install blackout curtains to ensure a restful night, and consider adding a diffuser with calming essential oils, such as lavender or chamomile or whatever makes you feel relaxed, to create a serene atmosphere.

During the day, keep your bedroom feeling warm and inviting by making the most of natural light. Leave the curtains open, opt for sheer blinds, or position mirrors strategically to reflect and enhance the light. With these simple touches, your bedroom can be a haven of peace and comfort, day and night.

Handy Tip: A velvet or knitted rug adds warmth, while silk bedding brings a touch of luxury. Mix and match textures to introduce a tactile element that invites relaxation.

Hack #3: Fill Your Shelves With Books or Art

Start by surrounding yourself with things you love, like cherished books, meaningful art, or cosy textiles. Layer these elements thoughtfully to add warmth and character. Fill shelves with personal touches: Mix favourite reads with decor items like candles, photo frames, or unique souvenirs from your travels. Incorporate framed art or prints to make walls and shelves feel lively and personal.

When styling, balance textures, sizes, and colours to avoid a uniform look; variety adds charm. Soft lighting, like table lamps or string lights, creates a welcoming glow in any room. Add plush throws and cushions to seating areas for a cosy vibe, and bring in greenery with potted plants or fresh flowers to make the space feel vibrant.

Handy Tip: Display sentimental items, like family photos or handmade crafts, in areas you use most.

Hack #4: Host a Laid-Back Kitchen Dinner

There’s a certain magic to ghar ka khana; it’s more than just food; it’s comfort, love, and togetherness on a plate. The kitchen truly is the heart of your house, and there’s no better way to bring it to life than by sharing a meal with those you care about. Plan a laid-back dinner featuring simple yet satisfying dishes like aloo sabzi with warm rotis or piping hot rice with your favourite curry. Serve it family-style to encourage casual, heartfelt conversations. Forget about perfection; it’s all about enjoying your comfort food and making memories in your new abode.

P.S. If you’re too tired to step into the kitchen, just order takeaway; there’s no need to stress or break a sweat cooking.

Handy Tip: Simplify cooking with easy one-pot dishes like khichdi, perfect for a fuss-free yet satisfying meal.

Hack #5: Set Up Your Entertainment Centre

In a new home, setting up your entertainment centre can help create a sense of familiarity and comfort, making the space feel lived-in and welcoming. It’s a great way to personalise right from the start, giving you a dedicated area to unwind, relax, and spend quality time with loved ones. Integrating it with your decor and adding personal touches like family photos, books, or decorative items transforms a new house into a home that reflects your personality and lifestyle. Turn it into a warm and cosy spot for family movie nights or gaming sessions by keeping the setup tidy with cable organisers and adding comfy seating like bean bags or plush cushions.

Handy Tip: Mounting a soundbar can create an immersive audio experience that enhances the atmosphere and makes every moment more special.

Hack #6: Showcase Family Photos

Photos uniquely make a place feel like home by adding personal touches that tell your story and preserve cherished memories. They act as visual reminders of the people and moments you hold dear, creating a sense of familiarity and connection. Displaying family photos brings warmth and personality to your space, making it truly your own.
A gallery of these treasured pictures can evoke joy and fill your new house with a lived-in charm, transforming it into a comforting sanctuary. These minor details not only create a sense of belonging but also have the power to make anyone who steps in feel instantly at ease. They offer guests a glimpse into your family and the special moments you value, adding a personal touch that makes it more inviting and alive.

Handy Tip: Pair black-and-white photos with sepia-toned prints for a nostalgic touch.

Hack #7: Give the House a Deep Clean

Even in a brand-new home, dust and construction residue may linger, making a thorough cleaning essential. Start by wiping down every surface, including floors, windows, and countertops, to ensure the space feels fresh and ready to welcome you. Deep cleaning is transformative; it not only enhances the appearance but also improves how it feels. Scrub tiles, polish wood surfaces, and vacuum even those hard-to-reach spots. Pay attention to often-overlooked areas such as skirting boards and ceiling fans, as they can make a significant difference.
A clean and well-organised residence creates an immediate sense of comfort and relaxation, fostering a peaceful atmosphere that promotes mental well-being. This nurturing environment helps everyone unwind and sets the tone for a positive and calming living experience.
Furthermore, maintaining an organised home can provide a sense of stability and familiarity, even amidst life’s chaos. Dr Roeske notes that humans thrive on routines and a sense of order, which can offer comfort during uncertain times. However, she emphasises that “order” doesn’t need to mean perfect alignment or colour coordination; your sense of order should reflect what works best for you and your household. Keeping your space clean and tailored to your preferences not only supports mental clarity but also makes it truly your own.

Handy Tip: Pair black-and-white photos with sepia-toned prints for a nostalgic touch.

Hack #8: Relax on the Balcony

Fresh air has a way of making you feel relaxed and at ease. Your balcony can be transformed into a serene retreat with just a few impactful additions. Consider adding comfortable rocking chairs or a cosy bench paired with a small table, perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or evening tea. String lights can create a warm and inviting glow, while plants such as ferns, succulents, or colourful blooms bring a refreshing touch of greenery to the space.

Hack #9: Spritz Your Favourite Scent

Studies show that mood can improve by up to 40% when surrounded by pleasant fragrances, especially those linked to cherished memories. This is because our brain’s anatomy deeply connects scents with memories, making aroma a powerful way to shape the ambience.
Consider using reed diffusers, scented candles, or room sprays to fill your space with your favourite aromas. Fresh flowers like jasmine or roses can add a natural, uplifting fragrance. For a touch of tradition, an oudh diffuser or simply lighting incense during a puja can bring warmth and a sense of home.

Handy Tip: Vanilla and sandalwood scents are perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Hack #10: Refresh the Walls With New Paint

Turning a house into a home begins with creating spaces that feel uniquely yours, and changing wall colours is a simple yet transformative way to start. Light shades like whites and pastels can make small spaces feel brighter and more welcoming, while bold colours like navy or emerald green can create cosy and memorable accent walls. The best approach is to choose colours that resonate with you, whether you prefer warm neutrals or soft pastels, and let your walls reflect your personality.

Handy Tip: A chalkboard wall in the kitchen can double as a place for grocery lists or family doodles.

Hack #11: Incorporate Some Greenery

Plants can effortlessly refresh your home’s vibe and make it more inviting. For those not blessed with a green thumb, opt for low-maintenance varieties like snake plants or pothos. If you’re looking to make a statement, larger plants, such as fiddle-leaf figs or palms, can steal the show. Prefer a no-fuss approach? Faux plants are a great option; they won’t offer the health perks of live greenery, but they bring undeniable charm and style. Pair a bold faux plant for visual impact with a smaller, easy-to-care-for real plant to strike the perfect balance.

Striking gold pots can be paired with ceramic planters to add elegance and charm to your space. For more variety, consider textured or patterned planters, pastel hues for a soft touch, or bold, vibrant colours to make a statement. Mix and match materials like terracotta, metal, or wood to create a dynamic and personalised look that complements your decor.

Pro Tip: Add a functional twist by hanging planters in the kitchen for a fresh indoor herb garden!

Hack #12: Invest in different kinds of lights

To make your house feel more like home, focus on lighting that adds warmth and personality. To create a cosy feeling in your bedroom, try placing small candles in pretty holders or a nice-smelling candle on your nightstand for a soft, relaxing glow. Bedside lamps with warm bulbs are perfect for winding down and save you the trouble of getting up to turn off the main lights.

In the living room, versatile lighting is key to making the space functional and inviting. Smart devices like Amazon Echo can take it a step further by integrating with your lights, allowing you to adjust brightness or change colours to match different moods, whether it’s a calming blue for unwinding or a vibrant hue for a lively get-together.

Opt for bold statement pieces like a large lantern, oversized pendant, or sculptural floor lamp to act as a focal point. Install dimmer switches for overhead lighting, allowing you to easily transition from bright and lively to soft and cosy, depending on the occasion. Brighten dark corners with strategically placed lamps to add warmth and functionality, and don’t hesitate to include a chandelier for a stylish, personal touch that feels unique and inviting. By layering these lighting options and choosing fixtures that reflect your style, you can create a house that’s cosy, welcoming, and full of character.

Handy Tip: A tripod lamp in the living room adds height and elegance.

Hack #13: Throw a Housewarming Party

Moving into a new home is such an exciting moment, and a Griha Pravesh puja makes it even more special. This ritual is all about cleansing the space, getting rid of any bad vibes, and bringing positive energy into your new apartment or villa.

After the puja, why not keep the celebration going with a casual housewarming party? Invite your favourite people over, munch on some fast food, pull out those board games, and let the music set the vibe. It’s the best way to make your new space feel alive and totally yours.

Handy Tip: Set up a fun photo booth corner with a few props; it’s a great way to capture the good times and add some extra fun!

Hack #14: Go out for some time

Do you feel a sense of comfort and relief when you walk into your home after a long day at work or a social event? This reaction is partly due to a psychological effect known as the contrast effect. When you spend time in a different environment, the familiar and comforting aspects of your home stand out more, making them feel even more special and homely. This renewed appreciation can trigger the release of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical, which enhances the joy and sense of belonging associated with your personal sanctuary. If your new home feels unfamiliar, stepping out for a while and returning might help you experience that sense of warmth and familiarity you might have missed out on while you stayed in.

Handy Tip: Step out for a short walk or spend some time in a different setting, like a park or a café.

Hack #15: Designate a Playroom

Moving into a new home can sometimes feel unsettling for children as they adapt to new surroundings and routines. So, follow some easy-to-follow new home decor ideas to make the children feel at home. For example, a dedicated playroom or play corner can help ease this transition by providing them with a space of their own where they can stay engaged, active, and comfortable.
To create a functional yet fun playroom, start with vibrant colours to make the space cheerful and inviting. Soft rugs are great for comfort and safety during playtime, and low shelves or bins make it easy for kids to access and organise their toys independently.

Handy Tip: Add a chalkboard wall or magnetic board for creative play.

Conclusion

Moving into a new home is an exciting journey. Remember that it takes time to settle in and make your space truly feel like your own. Don’t put pressure on yourself to make everything perfect overnight. With these mindful touches, you’ll transform your house into a home filled with love, comfort, and memories. Whether you’re adding a few decorative items or completely rearranging your space, each step makes your house uniquely yours. Enjoy the process and watch your space evolve into everything you want.