Author: purityrior

Can you recall how you feel when you come back to your house to be greeted by a complete mess of a bedroom after a stressful day? Can you recall how it felt like the stress tripled? Now can you recall the difference when you came back to a well-kept bedroom and even though you were worn out, you could still relax.

Last year, when we conducted a question and answer survey, we asked some folks how they feel in a messy room; if they can easily concentrate and be productive in such an environment? A lot of people admitted that it made them feel like scatter brain because they couldn’t get anything done. Personally, not only does it make me wholly disorganized, I become restless and easily irritated.

Clutter makes a space look messy, all jumbled up and disorderly.

Clutter can be categorized in two ways:

• A scattered/ unkempt space and
• An arranged space that still appears scattered i.e. visual clutter.

The second kind of clutter is usually associated with hoarding of things and tidying up doesn’t help with the clutter. To know if you’re a hoarder, look around you, if there is a whole lot of things you need to let go of, things that are not working, empty cartons that remind you of how much you spent on those shoes, keepsakes from your great grandparents, and so on.

 

EASY WAYS TO DECLUTTER YOUR SPACE

Tidy up daily, declutter weekly: –

One easy way to create this habit is to at least tidy up 10 to 30 minutes every day. Start by dressing your bed once you’re up for the day, this first step makes it easy for you to tidy up every other area in your home. If you’re able to cultivate this, then the weekly declutter would be easy to apply. This works for me.

 

Use the three box method: –

Get three boxes label them with KEEP, DONATE and TRASH. This is a tried method. Trash the things you don’t use and can’t imagine on someone ls, put the ones you don’t use but are still valuable in the donation/ giveaway box and then keep those ones that are still useful.

 

Declutter a place at a time: –

It can be really overwhelming if you try to declutter every single room and area at the same time. So start from a particular area then slowly get into other areas.

 

Make it fun and easy: –

When you treat it as a chore or an assignment, it becomes one for you. You can have a playlist of your favorite genre of music play in the background and your favorite wine in the corner (for wine lovers actually). For me, I like to move to beats while I clean and sway with my mop stick while I mob. Find out what works for you.

 

Shelving: – shelving is always a savior whenever you think of decluttering. It’s an easy to go to and helps you tidy up a space.

 

Buy storage boxes: –

Online shops like Amazon is an easy to go place to get fancy storage boxes, woven baskets or you can also try the home section of local marts around you. The trick is to crat a storage that excites you and makes you want to keep things in it.

 

DIY storage boxes

Well truth be told, buying fancy storage boxes could cost a bit, so, if you’re opting for a cheap way to store things, create storage out of recyclables. Those cartons, containers can do a whole lot of stowing away.

 

Use the space under your bed

you probably remember your parents using the space under their bed for keeping things right? Well, that legendary method is not outdated yet. For a very small place, you can neatly arrange (not chunk) some of your stuff under the bed.

 

Clear and clean flat surfaces

Flat surfaces are easy spots to drop things. Usually, it starts with one item until there’s no space on the surface but a bunch of piled up things! To make this easy, start by making your flat surfaces free of every kind of object and always keep it clean. That way, you won’t have to declutter.

 

Trash the trash

Please always trash things that you have no use for. It’s an easy way to avoid clutter.

 

Create a declutter to-do-list

This helps you create a structure for decluttering both daily and weekly. Once you routinize this habit, you won’t have any problem with visual clutter.

 

Hangers and hooks

These are must haves and when you think of what our technologists are creating recently, you’d want to have more of those. Get hooks for your belts, bags and face caps. I love multifunctional objects! They make life easy! Get multifunctional hangers to help you declutter your closet.

 

Adhere to the one in, one out rule

Ever heard of the one in, one out rule? This means for every new item you purchase and bring back home, another item has to leave. This helps you in two ways, buying essentials thereby monitoring your expenses and decluttering with ease.

 

Start a declutter challenge

One thing with a challenge is that it keeps you on your toes and for some reason, you don’t want to lose out on whatever the price and fun is. Create one with a friend or family and you’d just create a habit without knowing it.

 

View your house as first time visitor

Once you enter a new space as a guest/visitor, your eyes naturally wander around. You’d find out if you like the place in the next 5mins or so. Do this once you step into your space, that way you’d know what should stay or what needs to go.

 

Give 5 items away in a week

To declutter easy, give an item away in a day or 5 away in a week. By the end of a given period, you’d realize that you have done a lot of clearing up of your space.

 

So Purite, our community has this PURITYRIOR CLOST DECLUTTR CHALLANG that w started on the May 13^th 2023, join in the fun! Also, what do you think can make decluttering easy and fun? What do you like doing while tidying up? Please share with the rest of our amazing Purites here in the comment section.

Also feel free to share whatever extra tip you know that works that I omitted.

 

 

 

 

Natural materials are materials that are found existing in nature, hence they are easily found around our natural environment.

Natural materials are materials or physical matter that are derived from natural sources, such as plants, animals, or minerals. Examples of natural materials include wood, stone, leather, cotton, wool, silk, and various plant-based materials such as bamboo, cork, and jute.

Natural materials can be used as building materials, clothing and the fashion world. These materials are biodegradable inorganic materials such as

native metal composites.

Using natural materials in interior design can add warmth, texture, and character to a space. Here are some examples of natural materials and how to use them in interior design:

 

Wood

Wood is a versatile material that can be used in many different ways in interior design. It can be used for furniture, flooring, and wall paneling. The natural texture and grain of the wood can add warmth and character to a space. To use wood in interior design, consider using reclaimed wood or bamboo for a more sustainable option, or choose a wood species that complements the overall design aesthetic.

Clay brick

Clay brick is an all-natural product that is solely made from water and clay. This is also a timeless natural material that is used for its beneficial purposes such as It is completely recyclable, energy efficient. It also has amazing heating and cooling properties. It’s used in interior design as wall accent, in contrast to polished

Stone

Stone is a timeless material that can be used to add texture and visual interest to a space. These exist as travertine, granite, marble etc. It can be used for flooring, wall cladding, or as a feature in a room. To use stone in interior design, consider the color and texture of the stone and how it will work with the overall design aesthetic. For example, a rough-hewn stone fireplace might work well in a rustic or country-style space, while a sleek marble accent wall might be more suited to a modern or minimalist design.

Leather

Leather is a durable and stylish material that can be used in furniture and décor accents. It can add a luxurious feel to a space and can be used in a variety of colors and finishes. To use leather in interior design, consider the color and texture of the leather and how it will complement the overall design aesthetic. For example, a distressed leather sofa might work well in a rustic or industrial space, while a sleek black leather chair might be more suited to a modern or contemporary design.

 

Biotic materials

Biotic materials are gotten from living organisms. These materials have carbon properties and are capable of decay. These include coconut fibers, bamboo, straw, bananas fibers etc.

 

Natural fibers

Natural fibers such as cotton, linen, and wool can add texture and softness to a space. They can be used for upholstery, throw pillows, and bedding. To use natural fibers in interior design, consider the color and texture of the fabric and how it will work with the overall design aesthetic. For example, a neutral-colored linen sofa might work well in a beachy or tropical-style space, while a cozy wool throw might be more suited to a rustic or cabin-inspired design.

 

Plants

Plants are a natural and vibrant way to add color and life to a space. They can be used as décor accents or as a statement piece in a room. To use plants in interior design, consider the size and style of the plant and how it will work with the overall design aesthetic. For example, a tall fiddle leaf fig tree might work well in a modern or minimalist space, while a collection of small succulents might be more suited to a bohemian or eclectic design.

 

Natural materials are useful in interior design because they add warmth, texture, and character to a space. They can help create a sense of harmony and balance, as they are often associated with the natural world and can create a calming and peaceful environment.

 

Additionally, natural materials are often sustainable and environmentally friendly, making them a popular choice for eco-conscious designers and homeowners. They can be sourced locally, and many natural materials are renewable, biodegradable, and have a low carbon footprint.

 

Natural materials can also help create a sense of connection to the outdoors, which is especially important in urban environments where access to green space may be limited. Incorporating natural materials such as plants, wood, and stone can create a sense of natural beauty and tranquility, even in the midst of a bustling city.

 

Overall, natural materials are a valuable tool in interior design, helping to create inviting and harmonious spaces while also promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness.

there are regulations and agencies in Nigeria that govern the sourcing and use of natural materials, with a focus on promoting environmental sustainability and protecting natural resources. It’s important for designers and homeowners to be aware of these regulations and to source materials responsibly to minimize environmental impact.

 

 

 

Do you also wonder what goes on behind closed closet doors? Most times I find myself staring at closet doors and wondering if it looks neat and arranged just like the room is or if it’s a complete chaos like a scene after a wind storm.

Clutter contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety, which can have negative effects on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. Living in a cluttered environment can also make it more difficult to find the things you need, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. In addition, clutter can contribute to the growth of dust, mold, and other allergens, which can lead to respiratory problems, especially for those with pre-existing conditions like asthma. Furthermore, if your closet is cluttered with clothing and other items that you no longer need or use, it can make it harder to keep your space clean, which can attract pests like mice and insects, leading to potential health hazards.

Therefore, while a cluttered closet may not be directly unhealthy, it can lead to different health related issues.

If you’re having hard time keeping your closet decluttered, then we have to know the WHYs i.e. the root cause of the problem and here are some reasons Why closets are always cluttered;

 

Lack of regular decluttering

Many people tend to accumulate clothes and other items over time without regularly decluttering their closet. This can lead to a build-up of clutter, making it harder to find what you need, leaving less space for new items and easy means to more clutter.

 

Limited space

Another reason closets can become cluttered is that they are often limited in size, which can make it difficult to organize items properly. If you have a small closet, it’s important to be mindful of what you keep and regularly take out items you no longer need.

 

Poor organization

Even if you have a large closet, if it’s not organized properly, it can quickly become cluttered. For example, if you don’t have enough shelving or hanging space, items can get mixed up and create a mess.

 

Emotional attachment

Sometimes people hold onto items in their closet because they have an emotional attachment to them, even if they no longer wear or use them. Sentimental attachment or the belief that they may come back in style can make it harder to get rid of clothes, leading to clutter.

 

Lack of an effective organization system

Some people struggle with closet clutter because they don’t have a system in place for organizing their items. Without a clear plan for how to store things, it can be easy for items to get misplaced or mixed up, leading to clutter.

 

Buying too many clothes

Many people have a habit of buying clothes without considering whether they actually need them or if they fit into their existing wardrobe. This can quickly lead to an overflowing closet and a lot of clutter.

 

Lack of time

Keeping a closet organized requires regular maintenance and upkeep. However, many people lead busy lives and don’t have the time or energy to devote to decluttering their closet regularly.

 

Sharing a closet

If you share a closet with someone else, it can be harder to keep it organized, as you may have different ideas about how to organize and store items. This can lead to confusion and clutter, especially if there isn’t enough space for everyone’s belongings.

 

Poor lighting

Finally, having poor lighting in a closet can make it harder to see and find items, leading to clutter as you may not realize what you have or where it’s stored hence you create a mess while searching for whatever item you need at the time. Installing better lighting can make a big difference in keeping your closet organized and clutter-free.

 

If any of this applies to you, here are some ideas on how to declutter your closet:

 

Start by emptying your closet:

Take everything out of your closet, so you can see exactly what you have. This will make it easier to assess what you need to keep and what you can get rid of.

 

Sort through your items:

Go through each item and decide whether to keep, donate, or throw away. Ask yourself if you have worn the item in the last year, if it still fits, and if it’s in good condition.

 

Sort in threes:

As you sort through your items, create piles for things you’re keeping, donating, and throwing away. This will help you stay organized and make it easier to dispose of items.

 

Organize by category:

Once you’ve decided what to keep, organize your items by category (e.g., tops, trousers, dresses, shoes) to make it easier to find what you need. Use shelves, hanging organizers, and shoe racks to maximize your closet space and keep your items organized. This will also help prevent clutter from building up in the future.

 

Create a system for seasonal items:

If you have seasonal items that you only wear for a few months of the year (e.g., winter coats), store them in a separate area so they don’t take up valuable closet space.

 

Set a regular decluttering schedule:

Make a plan to declutter your closet regularly, at least once every two weeks. This will help prevent clutter from building up again in the future.

 

Remember, decluttering your closet can be a process, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. By taking the time to organize your closet, you’ll be able to find what you need more easily and enjoy a clutter-free space.

 

Do let me know if these tips were helpful in any way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you are clueless about how you want your space to turn out or you are generally in search of inspiration, well I’m just going to say this, I’m happy to have you.

Design style is the look a place or piece of art has that makes it stand out.  Truth is, once it comes to art and designs, you’d always need inspiration to get it right. Inspirations are always around you at all times, you don’t need any special trick or skill for this. It’s no rocket science really, the only thing that fuels art or imaginations is inspirations and this is best gotten from our natural environment, it’s just like learning from mother nature.

Our natural environment is already blessed with colors, patterns, fragrances, shapes, styles, textures, and any other concept you want to introduce to your space. Learning from nature for your design means incorporating all those elements in the environment into your space, it’s more like bringing the natural world in. The best designs are often those ones that are related to our existing environment because we can easily relate to them. The nature is an endless source of inspiration and ideas that one can always explore.

Nature as source of ideas

Highlands

 

The highlands are always very beautiful that people take time out to go hiking, camping or mountain climbing just to feel closer to this natural body. The best views of these are the sun setting behind a peak or when the whole humongous body is covered in snow.

This can be the best option for those who likes height. You can create your interior to look like your favorite part of the mountain or you can add some objects, shapes or martials that makes your space have the feel of the mountain.

Forest

The forest comprises of trees, shrubs and sometimes, water bodies like streams, fountains or ponds.

Recreating a forest in your space creates a calm and peaceful environment. No wonder the forest sounds passes as white noise for those who have difficulty in  sleeping. The forest is just the place to look for ideas.

The oceans

Who else loves water? The beach has always been the place for people to wind down when stressed out. The beach is always crowded by people who are on vacation. You don’t necessarily need to live close to the ocean to enjoy the benefits of this ambient environment hence you can easily bring the ocean to your home for all its benefits.

Island;

everyone raves about the small archipelago country Malvid which is  located at the north-central Indian ocean The view is always different from the world you always known. The blue water body, the flowers, the palms and nocturnal view, the reflection of the sun on the water in the day and the moon and the stars at night. Imagine having to sleep and wake in a space that connects you to your favorite place to be at on earth.

The celestial bodies

For our science students that are always intrigued about the space in general, you can make your favorite place in your home to be that cusp between the world you know and the one you’re always curious about.

 

Recreating the natural environment generally provides lots of benefits for both mental and physical wellbeing like;

Reducing stress: with your space looking like the sea, it already has the same calming effect as the natural environment. This can help reduce stress levels and promotes relaxation.

 Enhancing creativity: having a natural view in your space can inspire ideas from your imagination. It stimulates creative thinking.

Improving your mood: the serenity from our natural environment can have positive effect on your mood and mental and mental health like alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression and promote feelings of happiness and well-being.

Provides a visual escape: you don’t need to go mountain climbing or travel to Hawaii to sit next to the beach every single day after the stress from a hectic day. Bringing the outside inside can create a peaceful and calming environment that can help you feel more relaxed

Enhances focus and concentration: the view you recreate can help you with a distraction-free environment that allows you to concentrate on your work or studies much more effectively.

Helps with sleep and relaxation: the natural environment like the ocean or forest can promote better sleep.

Creates a sense of connection to nature: recreating the natural environment in your space creates a sense of connection to the nature even if you live far from that environment.

 

Ways to incorporate natural element into your interior design:

Stone for organic and rustic feel in places like tiles, accent walls, fireplace etc.

Wood for texture, pattern and warmth via furniture.

 

Plants for color, texture and freshness to your space.

 

Water for calm and tranquility by creating fountain or aquarium.

 

Natural textiles like cotton, fiber in places like throw pillow, center rugs or curtains.

 

Natural items like shells, corks, gems.

 

Natural light through large windows, skylights, cotton curtains for an airy and bright feel.

 

Remember to opt for element that reflect your personal style and aids you to create the world you love around you.

I for one will go for the forest or the island feel. What part of nature inspires you? I’m sure you got a spark at some point, please do share with the rest of thee PURITES.  Also tell us other spots or part of nature that serves as inspiration to you.

Thanks for reading.