Hadley Keller, AD CLEVER
We like to think beyond the literal meaning of home as shelter. To us, the place where you rest your head and store your belongings is much more than a physical location—it's something closer to a state of mind. As such, the items that belong in it should be both satisfyingly functional and a pleasure to look at; they should also be things that gain meaning and impart happiness over time. If your shopping list was limited to the basics the last time you moved (read sofa, bed, table, plates) or you knocked off most of your decorating in a single trip to IKEA, it may be time for a brief tutorial in the essentials. So we compiled this list of must-haves you never knew you needed. Add these to your abode and you'll be living—and entertaining—in style in no time.
Art You Love
With the proliferation of online sources offering great art at good prices and a burgeoning business of companies framing just about anything , there's truly no excuse for bare walls. Original works, personal photographs, and even memorabilia like coasters or postcards can live in aesthetic harmony on a gallery wall.
Guest Linens
Having an overnight guest shouldn't mean pulling out the summer camp–era sleeping bag. Stash an extra set of sheets and an extra towel so you're never caught off guard as host.
An Entry Table
Not only does it serve as a focal point, but a foyer or entry table is a functional catchall for mail, keys, and other necessities you're likely to misplace. Keep a bowl, tray, or box on it to corral those items.
Table Linens
There's something decadent about freshly pressed linens, but despite what you may have learned at your grandmother's formal table, they don't have to feel stuffy and overdone. A bare table set for example, with white linen placemats creates a fresh, airy vibe.
Plants
Besides bringing a touch of nature indoors, house plants add color and texture to the home. If you're a cook, they can be functional, too: Plant some basil, thyme, or other spices in pretty pots for a personal herb garden.
Multiple Lighting Sources
From work to entertaining to sleep, we do lots of things in our homes at many times of day, so it's fitting that we should have different lighting options available to us. A single overhead system just won't cut it; science even says so. Adding at least one table, floor, or desk lamp to every area in your home will instantly elevate your mood.
A Coat Rack
Walking into your home and tossing a coat on the nearest surface is only acceptable in a dorm room (and even then it's questionable). Whether you have a full mudroom just a section of hallway, or even the back of a door, a coat rack or some pretty hooks will work wonders to declutter.
A Bookshelf
Whether it's built-in shelves, a vintage cabinet or a basic model, every home should have chic shelving to store favourite reading as well as framed photos and other meaningful mementos. With the right styling, there are virtually no rules when it comes to what's on your shelf.
A Sumptuous Throw
Tossed over the end of a bed or across the back of a sofa, throws add visual interest and coziness.
Matching Wineglasses
When a friend arrives with a bottle of wine, you shouldn't have to scrounge through every cabinet and come up with a mismatched array — invest in a quality set.
Images: Pexels, Unsplash
