What Is Sense Scaping, And Is It Right For Decorating Your Home?

A room that takes you in like a cocoon can be a godsend for highly-stressed people — and this seems to be everyone. With work, school, family commitments, current events, and curveballs that life throws at us, curating soothing surroundings in your home is more than just a question of aesthetics. Sense scaping is emerging as a trend that ties home decor to well-being. This aptly-named phenomenon focuses on filling your home with elements that appeal to as many senses as possible. You could just as easily interpret this concept as boldness that borders on overwhelming. Instead, sense scaping aims to avoid sensory overload in a space that's a true escape.

A few rooms lend themselves perfectly to sense scaping. Obvious choices are spots where relaxation is linked with the room's purpose, like bedrooms or living rooms. However, bathrooms, dining rooms, and home offices may also benefit from sensuous touches that morph them into calming living spaces.

Along with designers' takes on rooms that bring good vibes, there's some pretty convincing psychological evidence for how a person's surroundings affect their mental state. Not only do people use sense scaping to alleviate stressors that are an unfortunate part of life, but tranquil areas can be vital for those with autism, anxiety, and ADHD, as well as highly-sensitive people. If you or anyone in your home deals with any of these issues, adding these sensory additions may make a world of difference for daily comfort and function.

Whether it's a cozy corner or your whole abode, the potential for sense scaping might be getting your gears turning. Comfort is key with this decor philosophy: textiles you crave to touch and snuggle, colors, accents, and lighting that are a balm to the eyes, as well as scents and sounds that round out a restful ambiance. While on the search for decor ideas that set your mind at ease, seating or bedding that envelops you like a hug, downy pillows, and plush throws are no-brainers. But even fabrics you don't touch often, like curtains or wall hangings, have a home in sense scaping. Taking a fabric like velvet in with the eyes can be nearly as satisfying as running your hands over the soft nap.

There's also a place for scent, sound, and taste with this trend. There's a surprising truth about the role scents can play in interior design. Candles, oil diffusers, incense, or an open window all provide important components to a sense scape. Choose aromas that fit the season, offer therapeutic properties, or are simply ones you love. Softly playing music does wonders for setting a mood, but the peaceful trickle of a tabletop fountain or a candle with a crackling lit wick are equally pleasant ways to weave sound into the feel of the room. Loop in the last of the five senses by having a delicious drink while you absorb the vibes. Surfaces and coasters near seating invite you to place a steaming cup next to your perch. Having a candy dish or snack tin at the ready doesn't hurt, either.