Whether you are moving out on your own for the first time or decided to upgrade from a dorm room, having your first apartment is a big adventure. Many people crave the independence decorating their own apartment can bring. But how do you decorate your first apartment to fit your style when you are on a budget? Let’s take a look at some tips for decorating your first apartment.
Mix and Match Your Bedding
One of the first purchases for every bedroom is a bedding to match your new style. But rather than buying a complete bedding set, keep an eye out for sales on sheets, printed duvet covers, and pairs of shams to mix and match. When mixing prints, use a large scale, small scale, and a solid color to bring the patterns together.
Take Your Time
It is also important to remember that it will take the time to decorate the space perfectly. No houses turn into a home overnight. So remember it is alright to have empty spaces at first. It may take some time to find just the right furniture for the room, so be patient and keep looking. If you need something to fill a space, think of alternative decorations. Also keep in mind that decorations do not have to be pieces of furniture or pillows, keep it simple with some houseplants spread throughout around your apartment. Try piling books up in a blank corner or a large plant to fill the space.
Learning to Love Vintage and Hand-Me-Downs
One of the best ways to save money on decorating your first apartment is to visit yard sales, estate sales, and thrift shops. Not only will these vintage and well-loved items give your first apartment a unique quality, it will also help you save money for one or two splurges down the road.
DIY Decorations
With a little help from Pinterest, your first apartment can be as unique as you are. Remember that cork board you had in your dorm room? Cover it with some burlap, canvas, or a printed fabric of your choice for an updated, grown-up message board. Use a staple gun or fabric glue to adhere the fabric to the board and start pinning your own photos, inspirations, or reminders to it.
Personalize Your Bathroom
Skip the bathroom aisle in the department store and use what you already have to decorate your bathroom. Glass jam jars, chipped or mix-matched bowls, and metal containers make the perfect alternative to toothbrush holders and boxes to hold all of your makeup.
Use Your Own Art
Buying some cheap picture frames from the dollar store or thrift shop is the perfect way to display some of your own art. Mix a few different sized art prints, photos, and printed quotes for the perfect gallery. Use black and white photos for a classic look or choose a colored photo for the perfect pop of color. Build your art wall to reflect your personality and interests.
Using Removable Decorations
Removable wallpaper and tapestries are perfect for decorating a room you can’t paint. Many apartment complexes do not allow tenants to paint the walls. But removable wallpaper is the best alternative. Simply peel and stick the design for an accent wall and remove it before moving out. A tapestry will add color and help to soften the white paint used in many different apartments.
Think of your first apartment as a blank slate. Use your creativity to help choose items to make the space yours. For more information on apartment living, check out our weekly blog posts!
Decorating Your First Apartment with Harborside Village Apartments!
Harborside Village Apartments are beautiful waterfront luxury apartments located on the picturesque Gunpowder Cove! To learn more about Harborside Village, please give us a call at 410-679-1130 or send us an email at [email protected]. You can also request a brochure to learn more about life at Harborside Village on our website!