Our Photo of the week series is back. Eyes of a Lagos Boy is shares the beauty of our environment using photography and today, we take a critical look at what makes a house a home.
A house is a building that serves as living quarters for one or a few families. Turning a house into a home involves many layers.
A home is more than just a structure made of bricks and mortar or a range of different materials. It is a space that is nurtured and cared for. A place with the presence of loved ones, with functionality and organization, the atmosphere, the sentimentality, feeling of comfort and safety are some of the factors that create a true home.
These layers intertwine and transform a house into a place where memories are formed, relationships are nurtured, and a sense of belonging is cherished. It is a place that embraces, supports and brings joy. A home is the ideal space where we feel a sense of belonging and where the heart truly resides.
One of the most important layers in making a house a home is the personal touch. This refers to the unique decorations, furniture and artwork that reflect the occupants’ tastes and interests. Whether it’s a collection of family photos displayed on a wall or a vintage piece of furniture passed down through generations, these personal touches create a sense of belonging and familiarity.
Another layer that adds to the warmth and comfort of a home is the presence of loved ones. A house becomes a home when it is filled with the laughter, love, and support of family and friends. It is the gathering place for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions, where memories are created and cherished for a lifetime. The functionality and organization of a house also contribute to its homeliness. Good lighting, both natural and artificial, enhances the mood and functionality of different spaces within the house. Pleasant scents, like freshly made food or a fragrant bouquet of flowers, can evoke positive emotions and make a house feel inviting.
A well-designed and efficient layout can make daily tasks easier and create a sense of order. Storage solutions, such as closets and shelves, help to keep belongings tidy and accessible, reducing clutter and creating a more peaceful environment. The atmosphere of a home is another crucial layer in making a house feel like a home. It is created through the use of colors, lighting, and scents. Warm and inviting colors, such as earthy tones or soft pastels, can create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The way a room is decorated, the choice of furniture, the artwork adorning the walls – all these aspects reflect the individuality and personality of its residents.
The sentimentality associated with a home is yet another layer that contributes to its homely feel. It holds sentimental value in the form of heirlooms, hand-me-downs, and mementos. Every room holds a story, every wall witnesses moments of joy and sorrow. Whether it is the sound of children playing in the backyard, or the sight of holiday decorations adorning the living room, these memories shape the essence of a home. They are a reminder of the happy times shared and the challenges faced as a family, making the house a repository of cherished moments. These sentimental attachments create a sense of history and connection to the past, making a house more than just a physical structure.
The intangible feeling of comfort and safety is a vital layer that makes a house a home. It is the feeling of being at ease in one’s surroundings, knowing that this is a place of solace and refuge. This feeling is created through the love and care put into maintaining the house, as well as the sense of security provided by the walls and roof.