The report identifies eight needs that are necessary to establish feelings of contentment at home. These include essential factors, such as control (having agency over a space and how it’s used), comfort (feeling at ease) and security (a sense of protection and security). For instance, 43% of global consumers said that having a place to unwind was the top priority for their home in 2023, and 30% said their ideal home would help them become physically or mentally stronger.
The report also highlights the importance of connection, identifying nurturing (taking care of one’s mental and physical wellbeing) and belonging (feeling accepted) as key needs. This comes through in the data, with peace and quiet (25%), pleasant scent (18%), music (19%), homemade cooking (34%) and access to green space (20%) all cited as factors that can contribute to feelings of wellbeing. Hugs from loved ones (35%) and laughing with friends (33%) are also considered key aspects of a happy home.
The research also finds that enjoyment (moments of happiness), aspirations (feeling positive and prepared for the future) and accomplishment (a sense of pride in achieving one’s goals) give a home meaning. For instance, 20% of participants feel a sense of pride and progress when engaging in hobbies and interests.
However, while consumers may seek these things, the report also highlights that many feel their homes don’t currently meet their desired level of privacy (55%), enjoyment (36%) or comfort (27%). Perhaps as a result, 34% are planning to move in the next two years, while 22% are hoping to renovate.
See The Heartfelt Home and The All-Round Home for more on how design is responding to shifting consumer needs.