How to Create a Sense of Home Anywhere

As a home organizing expert, I’ve spent my career helping people create spaces that reflect their values and support their goals. Along the way, I’ve learned what truly defines a home—not just from my work, but from my life. I’ve moved 25 times. Some of those moves were driven by adventure or opportunity. Others were less so: my parent’s divorce, a sudden eviction, and a long hospital stay. Each transition challenged me to redefine what it meant to feel rooted.

What I’ve learned is this: A true sense of home isn’t about square footage or zip code. It’s about being intentional and creating a sanctuary, even in the most temporary of spaces.

At its most basic level, a home provides safety and shelter. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs places these fundamentals—safety, security, and stability—as the foundation upon which all other aspects of life are built. But a home can also be so much more. It can be a canvas for self-expression and creativity, and a source of comfort. Home is where we recharge, reset, and find solace. Our homes can also serve as a representation of our history, culture, and values—they can convey who we are, where we came from, and what we care about.

During times of upheaval—wildfires, floods, or personal crises—home takes on an even deeper meaning. People don’t just mourn lost possessions; they mourn the intangible: safety, belonging, and stability. It’s not the walls we miss, but how we felt inside of them.

But creating a home is neither intuitive nor easy. It’s not just about finding the right furniture or decor. Here are some of the most universal roadblocks:

We’re Overwhelmed by Competing Priorities

Between work, family, and the never-ending stream of obligations, creating a home that feels good often falls to the bottom of the list. It can feel indulgent—or even trivial—to prioritize yourself, your surroundings, and your own comfort when so much else demands your attention.

The Fix: Remind yourself that investing in your space also means investing in your well-being, productivity, and peace of mind. A home that feels intentional and comfortable can reduce stress, improve focus, and create a sanctuary from life’s chaos. It’s not about luxury; it’s about creating a foundation that supports and sustains you. Prioritizing your home isn’t self-indulgent—it’s an act of self-care with ripple effects that touch every part of your life.

We Have Decision Fatigue

Endless choices—from paint colors to throw pillows—can make even small decisions feel monumental, even paralyzing. Who knew choosing a lampshade could turn into an existential crisis?

The Fix: Constrain your options and take it slow. Start with foundational pieces: a sturdy dining table, a comfortable bed, and quality lighting. Build from there, adding layers thoughtfully over time.

Transience

If you’re in a rental or short-term housing, you might feel like there’s no point in making upgrades or investing in decor to personalize the space. Why bother, the thinking goes, when you might leave in a year?

The Fix: Invest in pieces that are portable and timeless—art, lighting, textiles, or decor you can transition from space to space. Even small upgrades like lighting, hardware, or curtains can make a temporary space feel intentional and polished.

Comparison Culture

Scrolling through perfectly styled homes online can spark inspiration—but also envy. The pressure to “keep up” can derail even the most grounded among us.

The Fix: Remember that a home is not a performance; it’s a personal space. Define success on your own terms and resist the urge to keep up.

Photos courtesy of “LifeStyled” by Shira Gill/Vivian Johnson.

Even when resources are limited, a few intentional details can make any space feel like home. Over the years, I’ve landed on a simple formula that works in just about any setting:

1. Something Personal

A home should tell your story. Include objects that carry meaning—a framed photo, a handwritten letter, a family heirloom, a favorite piece of art. These items anchor a space in identity and memory.

2. Something Living

Fresh flowers and plants are one of the quickest ways to refresh and elevate your space. A few sprigs of green, trimmed from your backyard, or even a few shorter tree branches, look lovely displayed in a tall vase. Accent your nightstands, entry table, and kitchen counter with fresh flowers or yard trimmings for an instant boost. Even a single potted plant on a windowsill can make a sterile space feel bright and alive.

3. Something Textured

Layering textures adds warmth and depth. Think soft throws, plush pillows, a cozy throw, or a well-placed area rug. These tactile elements create a sense of comfort in any environment.

4. Something Inspiring

Consider: what do you find aesthetically pleasing or inspiring to look at? This could be as simple as a stack of your favorite books, a framed poem or quote, a handful of sea glass or shells from the beach, or a mini gallery wall of art or photography. Lean into what feels good to you.

5. Something Fragrant

Scent has a profound ability to evoke comfort and calm. A signature candle, fresh eucalyptus, or a favorite personal fragrance or essential oil can create a powerful sensory connection to home.

6. Something Familiar

Sometimes, one deeply personal object is enough to ground you—a favorite mug, a childhood book, or a quilt from your grandmother. If you are truly starting over from scratch, you might ask friends or family to send you a few mementos (an old photo or letter or souvenir). These small but significant items remind you of who you are, wherever you are.

7. Something Elevated

Utilitarian objects such as dish soap, hand soap, olive oil, salt and pepper mills, dish towels, your dish rack, and even your toilet brush can be elevated. I get a lot of resistance on these suggested upgrades from clients who dismiss the concept as frivolous, or fussy. But once I point out how often they actually interact with these objects (daily!), I generally win them over. Opt for high-quality, well-made products in an aesthetic that reflects your overall style. Look for natural materials like glass, wood, or organic cotton. These simple upgrades will make your space feel cared for and considered.

Home is not about matching furniture sets or the perfect paint color. It’s about creating a place where you feel safe, inspired, and at ease. Whether you’re unpacking in a new city, settling into a rental, or navigating life in a transitional space, the essence of home is within your control.

A home is not a destination—it’s a feeling. And that feeling is yours to create wherever you are.

Shira Gill is a world-renowned organizing expert and the bestselling author of three books: Minimalista, Organized Living, and LifeStyled. She’s a sought-after expert for media outlets and has been featured by Good Morning America, The Wall Street Journal, TIME, People, Forbes, goop, Architectural Digest, Oprah Daily, Vogue, and The New York Times. Her popular newsletter The Life Edit inspires readers from all 50 states and 150 countries.