6 Places to Lift Your Spirits Right at Home
Cozy nooks and quiet corners can soothe and renew weary spirits, making the home a real sanctuary
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It's been a tough, strange week for many of us across the States. Hurricane Sandy ravaged the Eastern Seaboard, leaving thousands of people at the mercy of nature. Here in the San Francisco Bay Area, while my household rejoiced over the Giants' becoming Major League Baseball's champions after their World Series sweep, we also nursed a lingering unease about the loss of lives and homes on the other coast.
The mixed bag of news has me nesting more than usual, and I've been finding myself retreating to cozy spots at home. Whether you're reeling from the news of the hurricane, nursing a sick child or just having a tough week, a soothing space at home can be a balm for the spirit.
The mixed bag of news has me nesting more than usual, and I've been finding myself retreating to cozy spots at home. Whether you're reeling from the news of the hurricane, nursing a sick child or just having a tough week, a soothing space at home can be a balm for the spirit.
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| By the Soaking Tub Running water is one of the most soothing sounds, and thankfully one that can be had with ease for many of us, whether you're in a tiny studio in the city or in a spacious ranch house in the 'burbs. Here, a comfy slipcovered armchair by the tub offers a view, the sound of running water and the anticipation of a warm soak, even if it's just for 10 minutes. |
This gorgeous master bath by Jessica Helgerson combines two of my favorite things: reading and bathing. I love how the vintage floor lamp lets someone read through the wee hours, preferably after an equally relaxing and lengthy soak in the tub.
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| Enclosed in Drawn Curtains A luxurious four-poster bed becomes a room within a room when its curtains are drawn. The option of visually and physically separating the bed from the desk-turned-nightstand makes disconnecting from the world — and one's gadgets, often placed bedside — that much easier. |
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| In this coastal weekend home, bunk beds visually delight with color punches and nautical stripes while giving each guest some privacy from both the outside world and others in the room. Because sometimes, even while on vacation with our loved ones, we need a little me time. |
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| Perched on a Window Seat The best seat in this master suite is the banquette, which overlooks this Bay Area penthouse's environs. The picture window and niche give the homeowner a chance to quiet his or her thoughts, and at the very least, the spectacular views can uplift the soul. |
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Under the Stairs
Designer Steven Gambrel turned an unused closet into this serene, understairs retreat. The addition of a window and the comfy, upholstered built-in make it the perfect place for tea with a friend after a long work week.
Designer Steven Gambrel turned an unused closet into this serene, understairs retreat. The addition of a window and the comfy, upholstered built-in make it the perfect place for tea with a friend after a long work week.
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| I'm in love with this traditional home's understairs phone nook, if only for its nostalgia. It conjures up lazy and long afternoon calls to a faraway friend. A dedicated area for phone use is a rarity today, when many people lay their heads on fluffy pillows right next to smart phones that blink and vibrate throughout the night. |
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| In the Laundry Room The homeowners of this laundry area, which was once a basement, make one thing clear: They really know how to make a person happy. A cold and sometimes dark garage often houses washers and dryers, but I could easily find my moment of Zen and reach a very happy place with my feet kicked up on the coffee table, mid spin cycle, watching the latest shows on the Travel Channel. |
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by Design By Lisa
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| On the Rocker-Glider Anyone who has ever spent the night rocking a baby to sleep on a comfortable rocker-glider will tell you that they are well worth their exorbitant cost. Our rocker-glider works hard for the entire family, but most of all it supports my back, sitting bones and child on rough, sniffly nights. And a little-known secret I'll share with you is that I often use our rocker-glider for afternoon naps, weekend read-a-thons and me time. Tell us: Where in the home is your sanctuary? Share your thoughts and photos below in the Comments section. |
Ideabook updated on Nov. 4, 2012.
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I am not a fan of the chairs in the bathroom. It is the last place I would choose to sit and read. I do, however, have a lovely teak stool in my bathroom to be used as seating if needed.