Use these designer tips to create a personal retreat you’ll enjoy every day.

Your home is your refuge, where you might feel safe and relaxed when life gets overwhelming.

Soothing decor ideas help foster that sense of peace and significantly impact how you feel in a space.

Living room with wooden coffee table and white furniture

Credit: David Land

We asked some of our favorite interior designers for tips on transforming your home into a personal sanctuary.

These decorating ideas will help you create a stress-free oasis you’ll enjoy every day.

Start with a Neutral Palette

Muted, neutral tonesare easier on the eye than bright colors.

Dining area with blue couch and large artwork

Credit: Annie Schlecther

Maximize the comforting effect offavorite accessoriesby clustering them together to create a focal point.

That way, every time you pass by, you might take in the collective joy of the items.

Be sure to choose a place you notice daily, such as a fireplace mantel or entryway console table.

Fireplace with candles and plant

Credit: Stacy Goldberg

Pay attention to the entire hearth to maximize its relaxing appeal.

Otherwise, the dark, empty spot can detract from the room’s calming effect.

“It creates a soothing ambience while adding a little luxe to my day.”

book plant candlesticks atop gold buffet

Credit: Kim Cornelison

Just be sure toblow candles outwhen you’re not at home or go to bed.

Alternatively, try running anessential oil diffuserto fill the room with your own signature scent blend.

Keep images of loved ones in your daily line of sight, orstore photosin easily accessible albums or boxes.

pink-and-blue themed open-concept living room and kitchen

Credit: David Tsay

Layering treatments gives you the option of creating a look that suits the day.

For example,shades can block out the viewwhen privacy is needed or go up to emphasize the view.

A valance over the shade ensures windows are never too stark, and draperies along the sides add softness.

modern black and white living room with shelf wall

Credit: Brie Williams

These accents are easy (and relatively inexpensive) to swap out on a whim.

For pillows, choose a variety of shapes and sizes and move them around regularly.

Keep the approach simple but fresh by changing a room’s looks with the seasons.

Sitting area with tv and framed artwork on wall

Credit: Helen Norman

Soak Away Stress

Make your bathroom function for both practical and pampering needs.

Warm colors,soft lighting, and soothing music can add to the experience.

Keep only the essentials within reach and view to extend the calming effect beyond your bed.

various houseplants

Credit: Jacob Fox

Decorate walls in colors that comfort you, and add only artwork that makes you smile.

Cover the floor with rugs or carpeting that feels best on bare feet.

Recruit everyone in the household to participate inclearing clutter, starting at the door.

low table and patterned curtains

Credit: Nicholas Johnson

Once you’ve cleared one room of clutter, shift your focus to the next space.

Tailor it to your choice of activity, whether reading, listening to music, or meditating.

“Everyone needs a place to get away from it all.”

Bedroom with large window and multiple pillows

Credit: James Nathan Schroder

More Soothing Decor Ideas for a Peaceful Home

renovated neutral-colored living room with pink and blue accent pieces

Credit: Lisa Romerein

glass walk-in shower in bathroom

Credit: Michael Partenio Productions

bedroom with blackboard walls

Credit: Edmund Barr

bold yellow dutch door in entryway with boho cushion

Credit: Dave Greer

Blue chair in corner next to wall art

Credit: James Nathan Schroder