Feature image credit: Freshome

Life in the city is stressful - fact. What with all those sharp elbows on the tube, unreasonable working hours and packed social schedules, there’s very little time for relaxing at home. So when it does come around, it’s precious. You don’t want to sit in a cramped, cluttered living room, worrying about the fact that you haven’t organised the cupboard under the sink for years, or painfully aware that you can’t put your feet up on the coffee table for all the plants.

The key is creating a space you don’t want to mess up - clever storage, as little clutter as possible and light, bright colours that make the most of the room you have will all make the world of difference. To that end, here are our top tips for making your home a haven, not just the place you lay your hat.

1. Keep furniture to a minimum

Source: Best of Interiors

If you’re living in a small space - which, let’s face it, most of us are in London - you won’t have the room for an extra side table or chair here and there. Feeling cramped is never fun, so strip your larger pieces of furniture back to the bare minimum and make the use of storage that doesn’t monopolise valuable floor space. Have a look at our clever storage tips for a little inspiration.

2. Make the most of the light

Source: Angeleno Living

Natural light is a great way to lift your mood and make you feel more at ease. Keep your blinds up and your curtains open to make the most of the daylight when it’s here. In the winter, low-lit, decorative lamps around your home will make it feel warm and welcoming.

3. Keep colours neutral and consistent

Source: Interior Designable

White and cream are obvious choices when it comes to serene colours, but light blue, grey and green are also calming. If you’re not up for totally sacrificing colour, limit it to small pops in cushions, lamps and vases.

4. Make sure clutter is minimal

Source: Fresh Home

Having books, photos or records lying around everywhere isn’t conducive to relaxation. Store them away if you have the space or, if there are some items you don’t often use but can’t bear to part with, pop them into storage with Boxman. It’s only £5 per month and you can call your stuff back whenever you want.

5. Focus on the extra details

Source: Fresh Home

The devil’s in the detail: fresh flowers and neutral throws or blankets can make or break a room.

6. Use natural fabrics

Source: Med Iberian

Choosing natural fabrics, such as linen, wool and bunting wool for your textiles will add to the sense of calm. They’re usually high quality, durable and will keep you warm during the winter.

7. Add personal touches

Source: Houzz

It’s important not to let your home become an anonymous blanket of beige. Your favourite books and colours will naturally appear in your home - and meaningful photos of you and your loved ones will add to your sense of belonging and enjoyment of the space.

8. Incorporate scented candles

Source: All About You

Natural, fresh scents in candles and essential oils create a soothing environment. Lavender is proven to reduce anxiety, while peppermint can even reduce hunger and cravings - so good for your mind and your body.

How do you relax in your home? Do you have any tips you can share with us? Let us know in the comments section below and find out more about what we do on the Boxman home page.