According to recent trends, Google searches for “how to reduce screen time” hit record levels in 2025, showing just how many of us are craving more intentional, analog living in our lives.
Predicted to be one of this year’s biggest wellness trends, “going analog” is set to change how we spend our quiet hours. It’s a shift away from doom-scrolling toward mindful, intentional spaces that nourish our focus, creativity and overall well-being.
What is an analog space?
An analog space is a corner or room in your home where digital devices, like smartphones, tablets and televisions, are completely banned. It’s designed to reduce screen time by promoting low-tech activities like reading, playing board games, listening to music and enjoying face-to-face csonversations.
Here are some of our top tips for creating a screen-free zone in your new home, away from all digital distractions.
Create a clear boundary at the door
The easiest way to keep a room screen-free is to make sure your devices never actually enter the space. You can do this by placing a small basket or a wooden tray on a shelf outside the door to act as a “parking spot” for your phone or tablet.
It also helps to keep all your charging cables in a different part of the house, so you aren’t tempted to bring your device in just because the battery is low. This creates a physical gap between your technology and relaxation space, giving your mind the room to relax and enjoy quiet without distraction.
Focus on "micro-hobbies"
A screen-free room doesn’t have to be just a chair and a book, you’re much more likely to stay off your phone if your hands are busy. Set up a table for unplugged activities that take time, such as clay modelling, crocheting, painting, model building or tackling a huge jigsaw puzzle.
Having a dedicated project gives you a reason to physically engage, rather than losing hours scrolling through social media. And who knows, you might even discover a new hobby along the way!
Introduce active sound
Total silence at home can sometimes feel heavy or hollow, which is often why we turn on a television or tablet, just to provide background noise. To create a relaxing soundscape without screens, bring in an analog sound system that requires interaction.
Using a vinyl record player, for example, encourages you to engage with the music by selecting an album, physically placing the needle, and eventually flipping the disk. If you are looking for something a little quieter, consider an indoor water feature or an acoustic instrument corner, as these natural sounds provide a sensory layer that fill the room without the overstimulation of digital noise.
Use lighting and time to set the mood
To separate your screen-free zone from the rest of your connected home, rethink the way you view light and time. As our digital devices emit a sharp blue light that mimic the midday sun, our brain is often in a state of high alert, making relaxation nearly impossible.
Installing amber-hued bulbs or using candles signals to your nervous system that your busy day has ended, and it is now time to switch off.
For even more relaxation, remove digital clocks that might flicker with LEDs and replace them with analog clocks or even sand timers. Using a thirty-minute hourglass to track your reading or meditation can also create a fluid sense of time that doesn’t rely on precision or the pestering notifications of a smartwatch.
Looking for a modern home that’s perfect for personalising?
Jelson Homes offer a range of new build homes that are perfect for creating analog spaces, giving you the flexible layouts and peaceful settings you need to design your ideal retreat.
Want more inspiration for making your home truly your own? Explore our latest blogs for tips on personalising your space, from interior styling to storage ideas that enhance your everyday well-being.
FAQ: Creating screen-free zones at home
What are the benefits of an analog room?
Many people find that spending just an hour in a screen-free zone improves their sleep quality because they aren't exposed to the harsh blue light. It also encourages better social interaction, as friends and family members are forced to talk and connect with each other rather than staring at their respective devices in silence.
How do I handle ‘analog boredom’?
Boredom is actually a sign that the room is working. Without a phone to distract you, your mind has space to wander, which often sparks your best creative ideas. Keep a notebook handy to jot down thoughts or simply enjoy letting your imagination run.
Is it expensive to set up an analog space?
Not at all. Most of the set up usually involves removing items rather than buying new ones. You can use the furniture you already own and focus on adding low-cost items like puzzles, notebooks, or a deck of cards.
How do I get my kids to use a screen-free room?
The best way is to lead by example and make the room fun. Stock it with board games, art supplies, and comfortable seating so that it feels like a place for play and creativity rather than a place where they are restricted.