7 Subtle ways to add keepsakes to your home
We all have them: the mementos, tickets, kids’ drawings and photos that mean the world to us but don’t quite fit into the aesthetic we’re going for in our homes. But your memories don’t need to be hidden away in drawers or bursting from overstuffed scrapbooks—keepsakes can be woven beautifully into your home in ways that feel subtle and considered.
Turn family photos into chic works of art
Forget oversized canvases dominating your walls. For a more refined approach, choose smaller photos from your collection and frame them with large mounts. The extra space around the image draws your eye in and gives the photo breathing room, like a mini exhibition in your hallway.
You can match the mount to the frame for a seamless look or choose a contrasting colour for a pop of personality. It’s a great option for stairways or corners where guests tend to pause and look around. Think of it as slow-burn nostalgia—people notice them as they move through your home.
@yshawna1 I love it with the red matte and frame, adds a fun pop of color! I’m gonna do blue next 🤭💙 . . . @IKEA USA #artframing #art #polaroids #wallart #diyart #framing #diyproject #easydiy #homedecordiy #cozyhome #wallart #unexpectedred #frame #interiordesigninspo ♬ Lucky Love - Michael Seyer
Showcase kids' artwork—but keep it in their space
We love their creativity, we do, but not every masterpiece needs prime fridge real estate. For a solution that feels tidy and thoughtful, try an interchangeable frame in their bedroom or playroom. These clever frames let you slot in new drawings easily, so you can update them as often as you/they like.
Not only does it keep the art contained to their space, but it also teaches kids to take pride in their creativity. And bonus: it means your living room stays cohesive, while their room gets a personal, ever-changing gallery wall.
Turn your child’s drawing into a plush toy
Here’s another way to showcase your child’s artwork in your home: get it made into a custom toy. Yes, this is a real thing. You send in a drawing, and Custom Cuddlies turn it into a plush toy. It’s ridiculously cute, and will make a great addition to their bookshelf or the armchair in the corner of their bedroom.
Pair photos with ephemera for a storytelling touch
Who says frames are just for photos? Add depth to your memories by pairing a picture with ephemera from the moment it captures. A postcard from a weekend in Rome, a matchbox from the restaurant where you had your anniversary dinner, a festival ticket tucked beside a group photo—suddenly you’ve created a tiny, curated scene.
Keep it simple and avoid cluttering everything into one collage—instead, have a max of three pieces in one frame. Pro tip: bring a small folder or envelope with you when you travel to collect these little items. It’s a habit that pays off later when you’re designing those moments back into your home.
Sprinkle in some seasonal sentimentality
Not everything has to be on display all year-round. If you’re someone who prefers a minimalist look but still wants to incorporate meaningful touches, consider seasonal options like personalised Christmas baubles.
Add a vintage family photo to a miniature frame for the tree, or fill a clear glass bauble with dried wedding flowers, childhood toys, or tiny handwritten notes. You can even include a small charm or trinket from a lost loved one for a subtle nod during the festive season. It’s a lovely way to turn your Christmas decor into something deeply personal.
Press your wedding flowers into botanical art
Wedding bouquets aren’t just for the big day. More and more people are turning their flowers into pressed art–a beautiful, lasting memento that weaves seamlessly into your home. Whether you opt for a clear glass frame or one with a colourful background, the result is delicate and timeless.
Buy albums that look like coffee table books
Photo albums are having a well-deserved comeback and they’re looking sleeker than ever. Investing in a few high-quality, hardback albums is a beautiful way to showcase your favourite memories without displaying them on your walls.
Opt for premium finishes and linen covers. Brands like Milk Books, Papier and Printworks make albums that look great styled on a coffee table alongside your candles and ceramics. Having them at hand as you kick back on the sofa is a gentle invitation to revisit your memories from time to time.
Your home should reflect the life you’ve lived—not just through furniture and colour palettes, but through the small, sentimental details that make it yours. But we get it, not everyone wants a giant canvas featuring those family photos you took at the beach. These ideas allow you to add more personal touches to your home, in ways that are subtle and elegant.
