From Abroad to Adorn: 5 Decorating Tips for Expats

1. Design a welcoming entryway.

The entryway of your home is more than just a passageway—it's the gateway to your personal sanctuary. Creating a welcoming entry sets the tone for the entire space, leaving a lasting impression on both you and your guests.

As an expat or world traveler seeking comfort and a sense of belonging, designing a warm and inviting entryway is key to bringing a sense of warmth to your space the moment you open the door.

To start, consider adding a personal touch with a decorative doormat that greets visitors with warmth and charm, choosing one that reflects your personality, or features a meaningful quote or pattern. It’ll provide a practical function by keeping dirt and debris at bay, and will also add a splash of character and set a friendly tone right from the start.

Incorporating a small console table can also be a game-changer for your entryway, offering both functionality and aesthetics! Choosing one with storage compartments or drawers, allows you to keep essential items like keys, mail, or umbrellas organized and easily accessible. To tie it up, throw a vase of fresh flowers, a potted plant, or even faux flowers to infuse some natural beauty into your first moment inside.

2. Layer with textiles.

When it comes to creating a cozy and inviting space, layering textiles is a simple yet effective way to infuse warmth and comfort into your home that brings depth and personality to your home. Even if you’re a neutral-loving home dweller, adding textiles like pictures, throw blankets, rugs, and anything else that adds texture and personality will ensure your home feels like a home (and not an IKEA catalog!)

For example:

A well-chosen rug can both anchor the room and add a sense of warmth underfoot, bringing a floral, Turkish, or beachy feel to any room. Make sure to choose a size that complements the proportions of your space.

Throw blankets and decorative pillows can be used for your couch, bed, or decorative chair to make the idea of sitting or laying down to rest feel even more cozy.

And for those window treatments– curtains, drapes, or shades can give you both privacy and personality, while adding an element of softness, elegance and grace to your space that brings more attention to the outdoors.

3. Infuse cultural flair.

Embracing your cultural heritage and incorporating it into your home decor can be a powerful way to create a sense of identity and belonging while you explore your new area.

Infusing cultural flair into your living space not only celebrates your roots but also adds a personal touch that makes your home truly unique, especially when locals come to visit.

One of the most impactful ways to infuse cultural flair is through the display of traditional artwork, textiles, or handicrafts. Consider showcasing a piece of artwork that reflects your cultural heritage as a focal point in your living room or dining area. It could be a painting, a sculpture, or a framed textile telling a story or symbolizing an important aspect of your culture. By highlighting these treasured pieces, you not only add a touch of authenticity to your space but also create a visual connection to your heritage for you to remember and for your visitors to ask about.

4. Embrace natural elements.

Incorporating natural elements into your home decor is a wonderful way to create a soothing and harmonious environment that connects you with the beauty of the natural world.

Your particular instance of living abroad requires a sense of comfort and grounding, and embracing nature within your living space can provide a tranquil sanctuary amidst the whirlwind of change.

One of the simplest ways to embrace nature is by bringing indoor plants into your home. Plants not only add a touch of greenery and freshness but also purify the air, creating a healthier and more vibrant living environment. Choose plants that thrive indoors and require minimal maintenance, such as succulents, ferns, or peace lilies. Place them strategically in different rooms to create a connection with nature throughout your home. Bonus points if you have an outdoor area where you can create a plant garden!

In addition to plants, consider incorporating natural materials into your decor. Furniture made from wood or rattan adds warmth, texture, and a sense of organic beauty to your space, as opposed to pieces made of metal and plastic.

Look for pieces with natural finishes that highlight the natural grains and patterns of the wood. These natural elements create a visual connection to the outdoors and bring a touch of serenity to your living space.

Introduce natural light into your home by maximizing the use of windows and skylights. Natural light not only illuminates your space but also uplifts your mood and enhances the overall ambiance. Consider using light and airy window treatments that allow plenty of sunlight to filter in while maintaining privacy when needed. Arrange your furniture in a way that takes advantage of natural light, creating cozy reading nooks or relaxation areas bathed in the warm glow of the sun.

5. Create at least one cozy nook.

Every home needs a cozy nook—a special spot where you can retreat, relax, and indulge in moments of solitude or quiet reflection.

For well-traveled adventurers like you, creating a cozy nook within your new home is essential. Let's explore some inspiring ideas to help you find that perfect cozy corner where you can unwind and recharge.

Begin by identifying a space in your home that feels intimate and inviting—a corner near a window, a tucked-away alcove, or a sunny spot bathed in natural light. Then, consider the purpose of the nook: Do you envision it as a reading sanctuary, a meditation space, or a place to simply relax and unwind?

For a reading nook, start with a comfortable armchair or chaise lounge where you can sink into a good book. Add a soft and cozy throw blanket, perfect for curling up on cooler days. Install a floating shelf or a small bookcase nearby to house your favorite reads and create a mini-library within arm's reach. Enhance the ambiance by incorporating a small side table for a cup of tea or coffee, and a floor lamp or a reading light to create the perfect reading atmosphere.

If you're seeking a meditation corner, choose a cozy cushion or a meditation mat as your focal point. Surround the space with elements that promote tranquility and mindfulness, such as a small water fountain, scented candles, or a collection of soothing essential oils. 

Consider adding a small shelf or a basket to keep meditation props, journals, or affirmations within easy reach. The key is to create an environment that allows you to connect with your inner self and find peace within the chaos of expat life.

For a general relaxation nook, focus on comfort and serenity. A plush and comfortable chair or a bean bag with soft cushions can serve as your haven. Surround the nook with soft lighting, such as fairy lights or a Himalayan salt lamp, to create a warm and calming atmosphere. Enhance the coziness with a fluffy rug underfoot, and incorporate elements that bring you joy and relaxation, such as a small tabletop fountain, a mini Zen garden, or a collection of your favorite scented candles.

Regardless of the purpose, don't forget to personalize your cozy nook with elements that reflect your personality and taste! A piece of artwork, a tapestry, a vision board, family photos, travel souvenirs, or sentimental items can go a long way in making your nook truly yours.

Interested in a space that welcomes you home? Let’s chat. Book a free discovery call so you can explore living in a place you love.