Technically, the space in which a saint—or a Pagan—lives is called a shrine. But that smacks of sanctimony, so let’s just turn a room into an altar. The four walls become a rectangular circle decorated with symbols of the elements. Make adjustments for architecture (doors, windows) you cannot change. Here are a few decorative suggestions:

East, air: Move at least one of your bookcases to this wall. Add decorative birds (I have an origami passenger pigeon), a witch flying on her broom, a glass “full” of air, a fluffy white feather, or a beautiful Victorian fan.

South, fire: A solar wheel, a candelabra with red candles, a Brigid’s cross, sunflowers, glass rocks (especially red or orange)

West, water: Mermaids, an aquarium, shells and beach glass, a plant growing in water

North, earth: Houseplants, geodes, other largish rocks

Now stand in the center and cast your circle. You are the living altar.