More than a third of people globally feel they do not experience enough enjoyment at home, despite recognising its importance. That is the key finding from IKEA’s latest Life at Home Report, one of the most comprehensive studies of how people live.
Surveying over 38,000 people across 39 countries, the report explores what brings joy to a home and how simple, everyday changes can make a difference. The findings suggest that happiness does not come from grand redesigns or expensive furniture but rather from small moments of self-expression, comfort, and play.
According to Belén Frau, Global Communication and Positioning Manager at IKEA Retail (Ingka Group), the research highlights the potential for small changes to transform home life.
“Home is a place of joy for two-thirds of people, yet one-third don’t experience it as much as they’d like,” she said. “Our Life at Home Report insights reveal that joy can come from small moments of self-expression, comfort, and play. Small everyday acts can make a big difference.”
Four key ingredients for joy at home
The report identifies four main factors that contribute to a happier home:
- Feeling Good: A tidy space plays a crucial role in wellbeing, with one in three respondents saying cleanliness helps their mental and physical health. Sleep is also a major factor, ranking as the number one activity for nurturing wellbeing at home, with 53% linking it to physical health and 51% to mental health.
- Having Fun: Homes that encourage play tend to be more enjoyable, with 66% of people in playful spaces saying home is their favourite place to be. Playfulness and creativity also contribute to a sense of safety and mental wellbeing, reported by 42% of respondents – slightly above the 38% global average.
- Building Vibes: The ability to express oneself at home influences how much joy people feel. The research found that homeowners are more likely to experience enjoyment often (55%) compared to renters (47%).
- Making Connections: Social interactions at home also play a role. Those who view eating as a social activity are more likely to feel a sense of belonging. Similarly, people who find enjoyment in laughing with others report greater happiness in their home life (68% vs. a 61% global average).
Bringing joy into home design
To help inspire joyful living, IKEA has partnered with creative collective Ulises Studio to visualise some of the report’s findings through conceptual ‘imaginary rooms’. These artistic interpretations showcase emerging home trends such as Bedrotting (embracing relaxation in bed), Kidulting (bringing childhood fun into adulthood), and Biophilic Design (incorporating nature into living spaces). The designs feature real IKEA products, providing practical ideas for bringing joy into everyday life.
The Life at Home Report reinforces the idea that home happiness is not defined by wealth or property size, but by personal expression, meaningful interactions, and a sense of comfort. While global uncertainty continues, the findings suggest that small, intentional changes can make a significant difference in how people experience joy in their own space.