Nothing says “I’m an adult now” like getting your first apartment. That is until you present a more elegant and mature atmosphere by elevating your decor scheme.
If you want to show the world that you have your stuff together, it’s all in the design. Here are some helpful tips to make your first apartment look elevated and cozy.
Invest in Your Bed’s Presentation
There’s nothing inherently wrong with putting your mattress and box spring on the floor. It has a casual, boho-inspired vibe that’s cost-friendly and simple to decorate. Never mind the fact that you don’t have to worry about dusting under your bed. However, it’s still reminiscent of a teenage bedroom and lacks the ceremony deserved in your first master bedroom.
The best way to elevate your bedroom is to elevate your bed. Invest in a frame and a headboard. There are plenty of affordable options for frames and weekend DIY headboard projects that look fantastic without breaking the bank. Furthermore, if you work with apartment locator professionals from UMoveFree, you can use your rebate to finance the project. Remember to purchase a nice duvet or bed set to bring it all together.
Use Hidden Storage
One of the best ways to make your first apartment feel grown-up and cozy is to use hidden storage for your things. Invest in a few quality baskets to store blankets, towels, cosmetics, and wires. Purchase some decorative boxes to put away smaller items and to keep drawers organized.
Investing in some high-quality furniture with storage components can also help you keep your apartment looking tidy. Storage ottomans or platform beds are great for blankets, seasonal wear, and even footwear. The key to using hidden storage is to develop excellent organization skills. These options shouldn’t be used to hide a mess; they should be used to keep your area tidy.
Add Textiles
The thing that makes a room look elevated and designer-inspired is the dimension added by various textiles— even in minimalist design. Add different textures to your room with curtains, rugs, and throw blankets.
When hanging curtains, place the curtain rod above the window frame to create the illusion of higher ceilings. Purchase multiple panels for a luxe look that stands out. Having curtains or quality window treatments is a must to elevate your apartment.
For floor rugs, look for something that has complementary colors to fit your furniture. This feature is also a great way to add warmth to wood or laminate floors and introduce contrasting patterns that add to the room.
Finally, adding various throw blankets and pillows can make the space feel relaxing and cozy. Fabrics like faux fur, sherpa, and cashmere both look and feel amazing.
Invest in Accent Pieces
Try to incorporate at least one eye-catching accent piece in each room. Taking this approach draws the focus to one key design element and is a great way to save money by investing in one feature. Some common accent pieces include:
- A whimsical chair
- Bold light fixtures or lamps
- Eye-catching wall art
- A large plant
- A gallery wall
- Unique accessories
If money is an issue, you can refurbish thrift shop finds to create an elegant accent piece that makes a statement and shows your inner home designer.
Vary the Lighting Options
Another way to make your first apartment feel more cozy and elevated is to vary the lighting options. Many apartments have basic lighting that either looks generic and unwelcoming or is dated and garish.
While you may not be able to change the existing fixture, you can dress it up with a removable pendant or shade. Additionally, you can add floor and table lamps with different light qualities to transform your living space into something more personal and intimate. For example, you could include a brighter reading lamp by the chair and a few dim floor lamps to shift the atmosphere while entertaining.
Learn the Art of Feng Shui
The way you set up your rooms will revolutionize your space. Use a floor planning app to help your figure out the best way to set up your apartment. The idea is to improve the flow and make movement feel natural and comfortable.
Reading about feng shui will also give you ideas for incorporating the elements into your decor and creating an inviting space.
Use Neutral Base Colors
Finally, it’s great to add pops of color to your decor. However, start with neutral base colors on the walls to create a more mature, approachable atmosphere. Then, use your decor and accents to bring vibrancy to the room.
With these simple tips, you can make your first apartment look elevated and cozy.
