1 in 3 people don’t experience enough joy at home – the IKEA Life at Home Report explores everyday solutions
Home should be a place of joy - but for many, that’s not always the reality.
Now in its 11th year, the Life at Home Report 2024 is one of the world’s most comprehensive studies on how people live and what truly makes them happy at home, including insights from more than 38,000 people across 39 countries.
As part of this year’s report, insights from 1,019 people in the UK were gathered and found that 58% of people in the UK have a positive feeling about their current life at home. Despite this, many people struggle to achieve enough enjoyment in their spaces every day but are discovering that joy doesn’t have to be complicated – it’s often found in small moments of self-expression, comfort and play.
A RECIPE FOR JOY AT HOME: FOUR KEY INGREDIENTS
1. Feeling Good: Health, wellbeing, and daily habits shape home enjoyment, yet they’re often overlooked.
Over half (58%) of those in the UK have a positive feeling about their current life at home, with Millennials (64%) likely to be happier than any other generation.
More than two fifths (42%) say a tidy and organised home is a main element in feeling comfort at home - proving that a little organisation can go a long way in creating a more joyful place.
Sleep is the number #1 activity for nurturing wellbeing, both physical (57%) and mental (53%), with almost half (46%) saying home is their favourite place to be.
2. Having Fun: Hobbies, creativity, and play add to life’s enjoyment, yet many struggle to prioritise them.
Over a third (36%) of the nation say spending time on hobbies and interests is their main driver for enjoyment at home.
However, only 15% of those whose homes encourage play say it’s their favourite place to be.
3. Building Vibes: Personalising a space fosters a sense of identity.
Expression unlocks joy: those who own their own home are more likely to feel positive about their current life at home: 64% of homeowners vs. 50% of renters.
At a time when the world feels increasingly unpredictable, a well-designed space that reflects personal style creates a stronger emotional connection to home.
4. Making Connections: Creating space for togetherness boosts everyday joy.
People love coming together over food, with almost a quarter (24%) citing eating as an important social activity for them.
What's more, laughter really is some of the best medicine, as 40% say laughing with people around them is the second main driver for enjoyment at home. Hugs with a loved one (41%) takes the top spot.
Designing spaces that encourage conversation, togetherness, and shared experiences can make a real difference in how people feel at home.
“Home is a place of joy for two thirds of people in the world. Still, one third is not experiencing as much as they would like. 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. Meaningful connections, quality time with loved ones, and a home that feels uniquely yours are key. Especially in these uncertain times, home also needs to offer safety and security. At IKEA, we’re here to make affordable joy possible for the many.”
FROM INSIGHT TO INSPIRATION: TREND-INSPIRED CONCEPT ROOMS
To help inspire people to open the door to more joy at home, IKEA is unveiling a collection of conceptual ‘imaginary rooms.’ Designed in partnership with Ulises Studio, a design studio based in Valencia that creates architectural concepts and surreal design solutions, each room reflects one of the biggest trends highlighted in this year’s Life at Home Report shaping home enjoyment today.
These artistic interpretations push the boundaries of colour, texture, and functionality, encouraging people to explore new ways to personalise their space - whether that means adding playful elements, embracing nostalgia, or creating a sanctuary for rest and relaxation.
- Bedrotting – Why leave your bed when you can turn it into the ultimate cocoon? Think soft textiles, gentle lighting, and an invitation to stay wrapped up in comfort. In fact, over half (56%) find unwinding/relaxing important in an ideal home.
- Kidulting – Who says fun is just for kids? This playful space is designed for play and joyful rebellion. Of those who say their home helps to bring out their playful side, 15% say home is their favourite place to be.
- Big Talk – Deep conversations need the right setting. This room is designed for connection, with inviting seating and warm lighting - perfect for laughter and hugs, both top drivers of home joy, according to the report.
- Biophilic Design – Bringing the outside in with greenery, natural textures, and earthy tones - because over a quarter (28%) of those who find comfort in connecting with nature at home, feel positive about their current life at home.
- Smart Home Harmony – Where tech meets tranquillity. A stylish, intuitive space that blends smart solutions with seamless design for a more harmonious every day. When it comes to supporting the feeling of comfort at home, 15% state that they use music to create the right environment.
- Dopamine Décor – Bold colours, big patterns and mood-boosting design make this space a celebration of self-expression. No surprise that more people are embracing bold self-expression, since 57% of people who say their home reflects their identity at home are often feeling enjoyment at home (vs. 51% of global average).
“Everyone should have the freedom to create a home that brings joy,” continued Frau. “By transforming emerging home trends into these imaginary rooms, we aim to spark new ideas and show that great design doesn’t have to be out of reach. Even the most aspirational trends can be reflected in our everyday spaces.”
For more information on the IKEA Life at Home Report 2024, visit lifeathome.ikea.com