6 Tips to Make Your First Apartment Feel Like Home

Renting is a great way to start your independent life and there are many perks to it.

Depending on where you decide to rent, you can get access to 24-hour amenities like pools, gyms, and tennis courts. You also don’t have to worry about landscaping or security!

Unfortunately, you are in a bit of a rut when it comes to renovating the place – you might not be able to paint the walls or redo the countertops.

There are, however, a few things that you can do to make your first apartment feel like home:

No.1 – Start with a deep clean

Before you start decorating, clean the unit from top to bottom. You will already feel more at home when you get rid of the dirt and debris.

Plus, after you finished cleaning the unit, you will be more familiar with your home and know about every nook and cranny.

No.2 – Call in the troops

Nothing screams ‘home’ like your favorite people!

And sure, your first apartment might not quite feel like home YET, but that shouldn’t stop you from inviting a few friends over and throw a housewarming party.

The kitchen will be up and running and that will really make your unit feel like home. Besides, there is nothing like a couple of friends helping you unpack and decorate after a big move!

No.3 – Define and showcase your style

You might not be able to completely remodel the floors and walls, but when it comes to decoration you can do whatever you want.

If you want a red couch, you can get a red couch! What about that chevron runner? Buy it and put it in the hallway!

Just because you can’t make major changes to the structure doesn’t mean that you can’t put your own print on the place!

No.4 – Add some coziness

The first few nights might be a bit uncomfortable and you might not be able to settle down just yet. So, pull out all the stops to make sure that the unit doesn’t feel too foreign and distant.

Make everything as cozy as possible – bring out the blankets, area rugs, throws, pillows, and curtains to make it feel more at home. You can even burn your favorite scented candles so that the scent of the previous owners are completely gone.

No.5 – Pay attention to the lighting

We don’t often pay attention to the lighting unless something is wrong with it.

If you notice something might be ‘off’ in a room, it might be the lights (no pun intended). You can try installing different types of bulbs to create the effect that you want.

In general, warm white light is ideal for a bedroom, whilst a bright white light is perfect for kitchens, study rooms and workspaces.

You can also try spicing the room up with different types of table lamps to add to the décor.

No.6 – Display your favorite pieces of art and photographs

A great way to add a personal touch is to hang photos of friends and family or your favorite art pieces.

If you can’t make holes in the wall, you can use hanging strips or free-standing frames. Take those sentimental pieces out of storage and put them out too!

No.7 – Add a special touch with faux backsplash

And last but not least, while you might not be able to retile your kitchen floors or countertops, you can use sticky backsplash to create the same look.

They are available in different designs so you have plenty to choose from! Simply peel the backing off and stick it where you want it.

And guess what, when your lease is up, simply peel it off and toss it away!