Dutch homeowners give their homes an average rating of 7.5, a solid score according to a comprehensive vtwonen study. True happiness often lies in the details: a tidy space, a garden, and the people we share it with. Yet, 98% prefer their home to stand out from the neighbors'. We favor color over stark white and cherish simplicity above all.
The Dutch excel at blending diverse living styles, which boosts happiness more than sticking to one trend. We opt to buy ready-made items rather than DIY, favoring new pieces over second-hand. Beauty trumps pure practicality, and budget-friendly choices edge out high-end design. Most prefer curating their own spaces over following professional interior advice—and always with a unique twist compared to next door.
Despite finding joy in less, 30% admit struggling to declutter as their biggest home-related guilt. 24% stash away clutter, while 15% let it linger. Top barriers to home bliss include finances (72%), lack of time (29%), excess junk (23%), and limited space (22%). Still, dreaming persists: over half tune into home makeover TV shows, 49% gather ideas on Pinterest, and nearly 40% love peeking into others' homes. Just 10% claim superior taste.
The living room reigns supreme as the favorite spot (76%). It's where we showcase personal treasures, stylish accessories, and fresh flowers—proving happiness truly is in the small things.
