Let’s be honest—holiday magic can sometimes feel more like holiday madness. Between decorating, cooking, cleaning, gift wrapping, and (in my case) wrangling five kids and two pets, there comes a moment when your soul softly whispers, “you need a break.”
So, I built one.
And no, not just any break—a literal secret wardrobe. A cozy DIY escape where I can step away from the chaos, breathe, and immerse myself in something that brings me joy: a little mobile game called Hay Day, a cozy blanket, and yes, sometimes Bun Bun the bunny joins me too.
Friends, welcome to my version of Narnia. 🧣🌲
🚪 Building a Portal to Peace: The DIY Secret Wardrobe
Growing up, I always dreamed of having my own “Narnia moment”—a magical little door that opened up into another world. So when the stress of the holidays started bubbling over, I decided to stop scrolling Pinterest for self-care tips and actually do something.
Thus, the Secret Wardrobe Project was born.
Behind what looks like an ordinary armoire is a passageway to a not-yet-finished (but already cherished) tiny retreat. The room itself is simple—just enough space for a floor cushion, fairy lights, a tablet stand, and a few treasures that bring me joy. But let me tell you… stepping through that door feels like walking through the wardrobe into your own personal wonderland.
And bonus? There are no dishes, deadlines, or demands on the other side.
🎮 My Favorite Escape: Playing Hay Day in My Hideaway
Inside my little hideout, I’ve carved out time for something just for me: Hay Day. If you haven’t played it, it’s this wholesome, beautifully designed farm game that gives off serious cozy vibes (and zero holiday pressure). Right now, it’s decked out for Christmas—snow, wreaths, sparkle… all the festive cheer without the cleanup.
It’s become my mini mental vacation.
While the world outside is asking a thousand questions, Hay Day is just over here asking if I want to plant some strawberries. The calm, the predictability, the aesthetic—it’s exactly what I need to reset my brain and heart in the middle of the hustle.
🧠 Why We All Need a Mental Escape
In this house, we believe in building beautiful spaces—but sometimes, the space we need most isn’t a living room or kitchen makeover. Sometimes, it’s just a small corner of calm where we can reconnect with ourselves.
Mental health matters.
And especially during the holidays, when everyone else’s needs seem louder than our own, having a private escape—even if it’s behind a wardrobe door—is an act of radical self-care.
Whether you use it to meditate, play a game, read, cry, or just sit in silence… you deserve a space that belongs to YOU.
🛠️ How to Create Your Own Secret Wardrobe Retreat
Want to create your own “mom cave” or secret sanctuary? Here’s how I started:
Materials I Used:
- Vintage armoire (thrifted!)
- Hinges + magnetic latch
- Faux brick peel-and-stick wallpaper (for the inside room!)
- Fairy lights or LED strips
- Cozy floor pillow or bean bag
- Tablet stand or shelf
- Optional: a little sign that says “Do Not Disturb (Unless You’re Delivering Coffee)”
Step-by-Step:
- Pick Your Wardrobe: Find a piece big enough to walk through or repurpose an existing closet.
- Build the Passage: You can remove the back or install a hinged panel if you’re adding it to an existing room.
- Decorate Inside: Think soft lighting, a cozy seat, and whatever feels most calming.
- Personalize It: Add photos, art, a tiny bookshelf—whatever makes it yours.
- Set Boundaries: Make it known: this space = sacred. Even 10 minutes in there is gold.
✨ A Final Note from the Other Side of the Wardrobe
I may not live in Narnia, but I’ve learned that magic can exist in the everyday. For me, it’s found in small rituals, in twinkle lights, and in moments of solitude where I get to be just Abby—not mom, not businesswoman, not anything but me.
If you’re carrying the weight of holiday expectations (or just the everyday ones), I hope this inspires you to carve out your own cozy corner of escape. You don’t need a castle. Just a quiet spot, a soft light, and permission to rest.
And maybe a bunny.
💬 Tell Me in the Comments:
Do you have a personal retreat in your home? If not, what would your dream escape look like? I’d love to hear (and help you dream it up!).
📌 Pin this post if you want to build your own Narnia-inspired DIY escape!
