Don’t break walls, refresh your routine: How to revitalize your home for the high holidays

The approaching Rosh Hashanah brings with it the energy of new beginnings – and it’s the perfect time to refresh and renew your home. No major renovation or big investment is necessary: A few smart steps can make your home look and feel different, festive, and welcoming for guests. Interior designers Tal Gal and Liat Kedem-Hadad from Tola Studio share practical tips to help you do it right.

A small change in colors can work wonders. It’s recommended to incorporate light shades – white, beige, or pastels – that bring a sense of cleanliness and freshness. Alongside this, festive color accents like gold, burgundy red, or olive green can add warmth and richness. Simply adding a festive tablecloth, new cushions, or colorful serving dishes can give your entire home an updated look.

Proper lighting not only illuminates your home but also creates ambiance. A floor lamp in the corner of the living room, recessed ceiling lights, or even a delicate LED string along a window – all can make the space cozy and bright.

For the holidays, add scented candles to the dining table: They create warmth and a refreshing feel that emphasizes the sense of renewal.

There’s no easier way to bring light and a sense of space into your home than mirrors. Correct placement – for example, opposite a window or near the dining table – creates the illusion of a larger space and lets in more natural light. Beyond their practical effect, mirrors also add an impressive design element that enhances the holiday atmosphere.

Sometimes it’s the small accessories that make the biggest difference. A light and airy curtain, a rug with subtle texture, or new cushions in festive colors – all instantly create a refreshed feeling.

For Rosh Hashanah, consider items inspired by the holiday symbols – for example, a white tablecloth with a delicate pomegranate print or red ceramic dishes – to add a festive touch.

One important design trick is creating a sense of flow. Instead of using partitions or large furniture that block views, you can define different areas with rugs, lighting, or even a sheer curtain. This keeps the home open, bright, and pleasant – exactly what’s needed for a festive atmosphere and hosting guests.

Adding fresh flowers, a green plant, or a bowl of pomegranates and apples on the table immediately brings life and freshness. Additionally, consider scents connected to the holiday – candles or diffusers with apple, cinnamon, or pomegranate fragrances. It may seem small, but the effect on the home’s atmosphere is enormous.