Please - give me your top 10 tips for making a house into a home?

[Chottie]

I don't have much spare time for housework, but I want my home to look loved and not 'lived in'.

There is only DP and me at home, and we both work full time.... No dogs or cats either.... Where am I going wrong?!?

Have a big declutter. Get rid of anything that isn't useful or doesn't 'spark joy', as big decluttering fans call it. That way, you will be able to strike a balance between tidy rooms with nice clear surfaces, but that still have enough personal objects in to give them meaning and have your personal stamp on them.

For example, I keep my lounge completely clear of stuff and quite minimalist, but we do have a bookcase in the corner with all our favourite books on, a couple of meaningful photos/art prints on the wall, a couple of coasters I painted, and our wedding photo and some ornaments we received as wedding gifts on the mantelpiece. So it still feels personal and homely but without clutter.

I treat myself to £3/4 flowers every time I do a big shop, they make such a difference to the house. And I love blankets/throws/nice cushion covers. Makes the place feel cosy. A cat definitely helps too, ha ha

Colour with cushion covers, blinds,curtains Major furniture is plainish and I like wood though hate laminate floors.
And only ornaments you love,not nicknacks.