Creating Personal Space

by Cheryl Wright

Women increasingly long for a cozy retreat from the rigors of a tough world and are seeking innovative ways to be good to themselves. They need some space, even if only the corner of a room, to get away by themselves sometimes to read, think or dream. They would love to have a little area where they can kick off their shoes, take a load off and relax.

Personal spaces can be carved out even in the smallest homes and, depending upon individual style preferences and needs, any room can be used successfully for this purpose. If there is no available room in your home, one corner--any shape and size--of an occupied room will do just as nicely. Yes, the smallest corner can be turned into your little private oasis.

Once you have your special place marked out, fill it with your treasured keepsakes to add personality and charm. Can you think of a better way to relax than surrounding yourself with your favorite things? The key here, of course, is relaxation, so make use of peaceful neutral colors and comfortable, no-fuss furniture. A comforting, stress-free space can be enhanced by furniture with a natural look and feel, like wood or bamboo for sofa and chairs. Include a small coffee table or side table for your reading lamp and to hold books and magazines.

Color is the magic ingredient that gives a small space its charm, so introduce your favorite colors in accent items such as rugs, throws, and pillows to create coziness. For windows, consider semi-sheer cotton draperies with a hint of your favorite color, draped over a wooden pole, or bamboo blinds for an even more peaceful and solitary feel. Add other furnishings that are necessary to ensure your total comfort in your personal space. Bring in a basket or two to use as storage for books, magazines, and various personal articles. Accessorize the coffee or side table with a few photographs of your family and close friends. Remember to include some candles, which when lit can quickly create the ambience of a laidback, almost spa-like atmosphere in your private retreat.

If you have young children, beware, for this little oasis you create for yourself will intrigue them. You can teach them to understand that mommy needs some time out too, but occasionally, allow them to share it with you. Use it as that special place to spend time with a young child reading stories or just cuddling.

Now it's up to you. If you find yourself needing some personal space, give it some thought and start working on it. Just imagine how good you will feel spending time in a space that you've created just for you, to preserve your sanity.

The Author

Cheryl Wright is an Interior Design Consultant and freelance writer who has been writing about interior decorating and design since 1987. She is lately expanding her horizons to include articles on the writing life, motivation, and self-care, especially for women. Her work has appeared both in print and online and can be found at: dollarstretcher.com, dreamsalivemagazine.com, absolutewrite.com, and writingcorner.com. Her email address is cherylwright55@hotmail.com