A home is never just a collection of furniture and things. Over time, it becomes a living archive of our experiences, habits and values. Every object has found its place for a reason: some remind us of where we have been, others reflect what inspires us, and some simply make everyday life feel a little more like our own. Together, they create a portrait that often reveals more about us than we realise.

Whether consciously or not, we curate our homes much like we curate our lives. The books we display, the art we hang on the walls, the chair we refuse to replace, or the small souvenir that has travelled across continents with us all become part of a personal narrative. They are markers of identity and the people we are still becoming.

To explore this idea, we asked two creatives whose homes are as thoughtfully assembled as their work — Parvané and Meshary Alnassar — to choose the objects they couldn't imagine living without. From everyday essentials to deeply sentimental keepsakes, each item tells a story that goes far beyond its practical purpose.

The coasters

These coasters are really special to me because my mum bought them when we were in Barcelona. They were always in the house where I grew up, and when I moved into my first apartment, I took them with me as a little reminder of home. They are hand-painted and feature works by Spanish artists like Miró and Picasso. I still love having them around because they carry so many memories.

The sculpture

This sculpture has been with me since my previous apartment, and I couldn't imagine leaving it behind. It is such a statement piece. You can use it as a planter or simply as an object, but for me, it has become part of the identity of my home. It sits by the entrance and feels like the perfect welcome.

The IKEA doughnut lamp

This is the iconic IKEA doughnut lamp, and I have had it since my first apartment. I definitely bought into the trend a little, but I genuinely love it because the light is so warm. I always leave it on when I go out for my cats. It has such a nice energy and brings so much warmth into the space.

The blue lamp

I love buying lamps. I love collecting different shapes, styles and designs from different design eras. This blue one has a vintage feel with a touch of Art Deco, which I absolutely love.

The Matisse poster

Everything related to art reminds me of my mum. She always had Matisse books at home when I was growing up, and I have loved this image of people dancing in a circle ever since. That is why I wanted it by the entrance — I feel like it gives everyone who walks in such a good feeling.

The Iranian Photography Book

This book was a gift from my boyfriend, and it is an ode to Iranian art and Iranian photographers who are often censored back home. Their work isn't always celebrated or made accessible to the public, so having this book on my coffee table is really important to me.

The entrance

I love when people come into a house and have a little moment in the entrance. That is where they get their first impression of the person, their hospitality and their daily routine. When you walk into my home, you woll see my dogs' feeding bowls, my keys, artwork, incense and bakhoor sticks. I like people seeing those things first because they are what I want to share from the very beginning.

The checkered rug

I grew up loving checkered flooring, so if I live somewhere that doesn't have it, I will add a checkered rug instead. It recreates the feeling I grew up with and makes the space feel the way I want it to.

Black-and-white photography

There is something so chic and timeless about black-and-white photography. Whether it is an old scan or a photo you have taken on your iPhone, printing it in black and white instantly gives it a different feeling. It works beautifully in almost any space.

Incense

For me, a home isn't only about what you see — it is also about what you smell. It is a very sensory experience. I love walking into a space with a scent that stays with you and comes back every time you return. Smell is incredibly powerful. It triggers memories and emotions in a way nothing else can.