It’s not the square footage that makes my home lovable – things that gave me so much more to feel good where I live
A few years ago, when my partner and I decided to buy our own apartment, we weren’t exactly sure what we were looking for — but we knew what we didn’t want. We didn’t want something "too big" that we couldn’t maintain or truly make our own. Still, it was hard to let go of the idea that what we grew up with — a garden, many rooms, storage, an attic — was the "real home."
When we told friends about our apartment hunt, many raised their eyebrows: “Isn’t that too small?” “How will you feel comfortable in an apartment?” Some even said an apartment felt like a prison to them. Usually, this came from people who saw a family house as a status symbol, but we were looking for something different in our own home.
The Moment We Knew: "This Is It."
We saw many apartments. After a while, we lost count. Some were new, some run-down, some expensive, others suspiciously cheap. Then one day, we stepped into a not-too-big but bright and welcoming apartment — and something clicked inside us.
There was nothing extraordinary about it, yet it felt right. We imagined having coffee there in the mornings, decorating for Christmas, living our lives. It wasn’t perfect, but it was the first place where we could truly picture ourselves.
We Didn’t Buy Square Footage, We Bought Possibility
Our apartment has two rooms, a small balcony, and is under 60 square meters (about 645 sq ft). On paper, it might seem average, but to us, it means so much more. This is where something began that you can’t draw on a floor plan: creating a home.
We renovated it. Not for anyone else, but for ourselves. Not to increase its value, but to make it feel better to live in.
I chose the kitchen tiles — not the popular ones, but the ones I liked. We installed a bathtub that’s truly comfortable. We picked furniture that’s cozy, welcoming, and reflects who we are. That’s when I realized: a home becomes a home when you shape it to your own taste.
Behind the Things: Feelings, Memories, Vibes
Many believe that coziness comes from the decor. Of course, it’s important to have things that are beautiful, comfortable, and practical. But over time, I realized what truly matters is much less tangible.
Home is the calm I feel when I step through the door. It’s the safety of brewing coffee in my own mug on a sleepy morning. The scents tied to shared dinners. The little spot on the balcony where I nurture my plants.
A Big House Doesn’t Equal Happiness
Sometimes I see huge houses, beautiful villas, perfectly decorated living rooms — and yet, they feel empty. Because a home can be perfectly equipped, modern, and spacious, but without love, laughter, and presence, it’s just a pretty stage set.
Someone can feel lonely in a big house and happy in two rooms. This isn’t a cliché — it’s real experience. Home is where you feel good. Where you can be yourself. Where walls don’t just surround you, but hold you.
Beyond the Walls — This Became Our Home
Our home isn’t big now, but every inch belongs to us. It’s not perfect; there’s always something to fix or improve — but we live in it fully. We don’t just occupy it; we’re truly present.
I think I finally understand: it’s not the square footage that makes a home lovable, but what we bring to it. Our time, energy, choices, and the moments we share.
Even though the world still sometimes asks, “Don’t you want something bigger?” we already know bigger isn’t better. What matters is what’s truly ours.
