Designing a home that feels like a Hug for Highly Sensitive People

As a highly sensitive person (HSP), I know how overwhelming the world can feel sometimes. Dr. Elaine Aron, in her book The Highly Sensitive Person, explains that about 15-20% of people have a heightened sensitivity to their surroundings, and I’m definitely one of them. Because of this, my home isn’t just where I live—it’s my sanctuary. It’s where I can recharge, process the day, and find calm.

Over the years, I’ve realised how important it is to design a home that doesn’t just look good but feels good. It’s not about chasing trends or perfection; it’s about creating a space that supports my well-being and brings me peace. Here’s what has worked for me as I’ve designed my home to nurture my sensitive soul.

I Carved Out a Quiet Corner

There’s nothing I value more than a small, uninterrupted space to unwind. For me, it’s a the bathroom, the bathtub to be precise lol. It’s where I go when I need to decompress. Just the combination of the hot water, bubbles and a quiet space is the ultimate for me when I just need to relax. I get that not everyone likes baths or has one — so just find what that place is for you? It could be a corner chair by the window layered with soft throws and a stack of your favourite books/ magazines…

I Choose Scents That Soothe Me

I’ve always been sensitive to smells, so finding the right scents for my home has been key. I’ve learned to avoid overpowering candles and instead stick to subtle, natural fragrances like lavender and chamomile. I place diffusers or scented sachets in key areas, such as bathrooms, hallways/ entryways but avoid these in bedrooms as I don’t want anything in my bedroom and prefer to keep it a neutral space . I generally avoid vanilla, coconut and spiced scents are best avoided as they need to be quite synthetic smelling.

Soft Sounds Make All the Difference

Sound has such a big impact on how I feel. While loud, unpredictable noises set me on edge, soft, intentional sounds are soothing.

I keep a playlist of calming nature sounds and gentle instrumental music ready to go. I’ve also invested in thick interlined curtains and rugs that help absorb noise from outside.

Some of my favourite playlists are Chantress Seba, Instrumental Jazz, Lofi beats — you can just search for these on youtube and you’ll find them easily.

Soft Lighting

Bright, harsh lighting drains me, so I’ve been really intentional about layering soft lighting throughout my home. Dimmable table lamps are my go-to, and I’ve added battery-operated candles in a few spots for an extra warm glow. In the evenings, I never turn on the big light — like never - I rely on lamps and candle sources to wind down—it’s a simple change that makes a big difference.

Textures Help Me Feel Grounded

Soft, tactile textures are my love language. I have throws and pillows everywhere and choose furniture that’s gentle on the eye and touch. I’m particularly drawn to curved silhouettes and natural fibers like linen and wool—they create a sense of coziness and calm that I can’t live without.

I Work With Colors That Feel Right for Me

Choosing colors for my home has been such a personal journey. While I gravitate toward earthy tones like taupe and muted greens, I’ve learned that the “right” color isn’t universal—it’s whatever makes you feel good. For me, certain shades evoke calm, while others energize me gently, and I use them accordingly in different spaces.

At the end of the day, designing a home that works for me as a highly sensitive person has been about tuning into what I need and what brings me joy. Every choice, from the colors on my walls to the sounds in my space, reflects how I want to feel in my home: calm, centered, and recharged. If you’re also highly sensitive, and unsure where to start or need guidance in crafting a palette that flows seamlessly throughout your home, my Colors Made Simple guide is here to help. From understanding color psychology to creating harmonious palettes that suit your unique style, it’s packed with tips to make the process easy and enjoyable. Click here to explore the guide!

Until the next one,

Ang xx