Weave Love Into Your Home Design

Valentine’s Day has many meanings depending on who you ask about it. Some people believe it’s a holiday designed to sell things. Others love it because it embodies the essence and reminder to connect with our loved ones. And others hate it because it reminds them that they are alone or lonely.

But what does it really mean? Where did it come from?

It goes back to the year 496 to a Saint named Valentine. Of course no one knows the exact story as this goes so far back in time. But his story is a story of love. And sacrifice.

Some versions of his tale include him healing his prisoner’s daughter from blindness. Others account that he married couples to spare their husbands during war. He was the embodiment of love, compassion and eventually great sacrifice.

He was persecuted and sacrificed his life on February 14, 496. He died a martyr (i.e. a person who dies for their beliefs). He gave of himself every single day. He gave love.

So what does this have to do with your home?

Instead of waiting for this holiday once a year, it’s important that we capture the essence of love. That we acknowledge it daily.

That we create a sacred space with our loved ones. A space where we can share daily. Where we feel safe to be vulnerable.

Strategy Two: Play with Your Senses

Now that you have your values defined, it’s time to discover how to tap into them. How can we build our values into our physical space?

Here are some questions to get your creative juices flowing and conversations going:

• What smells make you feel (add value here-i.e. Love or fun)?
  • Do you like the scent of lavender because it makes you feel safe and at home?
  • Do you like candles burning in a particular scent because it reminds you of a particular essence?
• What colors or art or things you can see in your home make you feel (add value here)?
  • Do you want to see items from your travel experiences in your home?
  • Do you want to see art from your children?
  • What things help you feel like your home is giving you a big hug?
• What “feels” do you need to feel (add value here)?
  • Do you need soft things in your home to feel comforted and loved?
  • Do you like firm furniture because it makes you feel grounded and safe?
  • Do you like your home to be warm or cooler?
• What do you want to hear in your home to make you feel (add value here)?
  • Do you want quiet? Or perhaps you want to hear flowing water?
  • Do you want to hear music or background noise?
  • Are there other sounds that help you feel loved, grounded and at home?
• What do you want to taste in your home to make you feel (add value here)?
  • Are there any nostalgic flavors that bring you back to a memory that’s tied to your values?
  • Do you want mints in rooms around your home because it brings you back to love?
  • Do you have a special snack you always want in the kitchen because it brings your children comfort?

Take your time going through this list. Get creative and expand on the questions. Really tap into your senses. This will help you get ideas for building love and your family values into your home.

When we design our spaces with intention, it allows us to feel connected, safe and at home.