9TIPS TO MAKE YOUR HOME APARTMENT "HOMEY"

I just found out that I’m going to be moving into a new apartment with one of my really good friends in two months and I’m so excited about it. And one of our main goals is to make our apartment inviting and warm. There’s nothing worse than coming home to a cold, disconnected environment. So I’ve compiled a list of 10 tips that can help you make your apartment feel “homey.”

1. Add a rug

A rug is an easy way to open up the room and make it feel larger. Rugs also pull the room area together. So especially if you have a dining area that is in the same vicinity as your living room, adding a rug will separate the two. And adding a colorful rug can make the room pop.

2. Put up some curtains

There’s nothing more bland and boring than white, plastic blinds. Putting up curtains will add a more personal touch to your apartment, no matter how simple they are. This may not be an achievable task for everyone though, make sure to check your apartment rules on putting holes in the wall.

3. Make the most out of your balcony/patio area

I’ve never been one to do anything with my balcony/patio area, but it’s such a wasted opportunity if I don’t. Apartments already have a limited amount of space, so you should take advantage of your balcony/patio area by adding a bench, table, or even a plant, that will make it more inviting.

4. Throw some stuff on the walls

This has to be the easiest way to instantly change the feel of your apartment. Plain, white walls are just depressing. Putting stuff up on your wall, whether it be posters, art, decor, paintings, or mirrors, makes your apartment more personal, colorful and warm. Check out Etsy for great one-of-a-kind art, design and decor pieces for your home.

5. Add more seating

Creating more room for seating in your living room makes it more inviting and comfy. Maybe add a chair or two next to your couch, trust me, it’ll make a difference. A spacious living room is always one with a good amount of seating.

6. Create a theme in your bathroom

Bathrooms are not one of the most exciting places, but use that to your advantage. Create a theme that will unify all the items in your bathroom. Have fun with a color theme or even a nautical/beach theme, like below. Add some themed prints, decor and shower curtain to your bathroom, and it will definitely brighten it up.

7. Pops of color

Color is always a friendly thing to work with. If your spaces is looking dull and boring, look for ways to brighten it up with some color. Whether it’s the smallest objects, accents of color can change a room’s appearance easily.

7. Put up a bookshelf

No matter what room you put it in, a bookshelf is the perfect way to add more storage space, create a personal touch, and cover up empty wall space in your apartment. Don’t just throw stuff on there though, you want to create a visual piece for the room. Look at ways to different way you can decorate your bookshelf.

8. Add an aroma

Candles or potpourri can be pretty and practical. You’ll feel more at home in your apartment if you create a warm, friendly aroma around your apartment (just make sure it’s not overwhelming.) I just love my Scentsy warmer that I plug into the wall. It makes my apartment smell great and it doesn’t create a fire hazard.

9. Think about materials

When looking at getting simple things for your apartment like a TV stand, coffee table, frames, dresser, tables & more, think about the materials they’re made out of. Wood is way more warm and inviting than metal or steel. Don’t buy all your furniture from the same store. Instead, mix together pieces from different textures and styles. It’ll create a more interesting and inviting vibe, rather than the “furniture store look.”