How can our home become a source of happiness?

IKEA Life at Home Report explores simple solutions for enjoying everyday life more

Home should be a place where we feel good — but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. While more than a third of people around the world believe that enjoying life at home is key to overall well-being, many report that they often lack that feeling. The latest IKEA Life at Home Report explores this issue and reveals how, even in uncertain times, small and simple changes can bring more joy into everyday life.

For the eleventh year in a row, IKEA has conducted a comprehensive study on how people live and what truly makes them happy at home. Last year’s report identified eight essential needs for a better life at home — from the desire to have control over one’s space, to feelings of safety and comfort, mutual care and a sense of belonging, personal achievement and aspirations, and those small, everyday moments that bring fulfilment.

This year’s findings, based on insights from over 38,000 people in 39 countries, reveal that many are still searching daily for ways to bring more joy into their homes. However, happiness often lies in the little things: moments we dedicate to ourselves, a cosy atmosphere, and time spent playing and relaxing.

“For two-thirds of people worldwide, home is a source of happiness,” says Belén Frau, Global Communication and Positioning Manager at IKEA Retail (Ingka Group), adding: “Still, one-third of respondents say they don’t feel that way as often as they’d like. Our insights from the Life at Home Report show that happiness is hidden in small moments: the ability to be ourselves, a sense of comfort in our own space, and the everyday play and joy our homes can bring. These seemingly small things can make a big difference in how we feel at home.”

---

A RECIPE FOR HAPPINESS AT HOME: FOUR KEY INGREDIENTS

1. Health, well-being, and everyday habits greatly influence how much we enjoy being at home — yet they are often overlooked

• Every second person in Serbia says that having an organised home helps them feel better, showing once again how even small changes in our space can have a big impact on everyday life.
• Sleep is the most important factor: 60% of people in Serbia say sleep helps them feel better mentally, while 56% highlight its positive effect on physical health.
• While 23% of people in Serbia say they live sustainably, more than half report feeling happiest at home.

2. Hobbies, creativity, and time for play contribute to daily happiness — yet many still struggle to prioritize them

• Homes that encourage play and creativity can foster a sense of security and better mental health, yet only 13% of people in Serbia say their home inspires them to be playful or creative.
• Cultural attitudes and the number of people living in a household can influence how much time is devoted to fun at home. Still, 21% of Gen Z respondents say their home gives them space for creative freedom and play.

3. Designing a home to reflect our personality helps build a sense of identity and satisfaction

• For 21% of people in Serbia, decorating their home is an important way to shape a space they enjoy — this need is especially strong among homeowners.
• The most important source of happiness at home for 50% of respondents is a feeling of peace and relaxation in their personal space.

4. Spending time with loved ones makes everyday life more joyful

• People in Serbia find the most joy in hugs from loved ones (45%) and moments spent alone (44%), while 39% say shared laughter with close ones brightens their day and creates a warmer home atmosphere.
• Food plays a key role in connecting people. For some, the kitchen is a space for play and experimentation, while 32% of people in Serbia most enjoy cooking traditional dishes using familiar recipes.
• Still, the greatest pleasure at home comes from time spent with loved ones. Half of all respondents say that shared moments with the people they care about bring them the most happiness at home.

“Genuine relationships, quality time with loved ones, and a home that reflects who we are are key to a sense of fulfilment. In these increasingly uncertain times, home must also be a safe place. At IKEA, we believe that joy should be accessible to everyone — and that’s exactly why we exist,” concludes Belén Frau.