Thursday, December 19, 2013

A New Apartment Is A Blank Slate: Decorating Tips

By Alvin Peterson


You just moved into your new apartment and have no idea how you are going to decorate it. Don't fret, there is help. First, you will want to talk to your landlord, and ask what you are and are not allowed to do, you may be surprised what they say. Many landlords will allow you to paint, change the blinds and light fixtures, as long as you put it back when you leave. You are usually permitted to hang things too.

Take a look around, evaluate the area. Make a note of obvious things, such as low ceilings, a lot of windows, wood floors, and other things that jump out at you. Also take note of any unpleasant features you may need to hide or deal with. If you are purchasing new furniture, try to find some that serves two purposes: pretty and functional. It is rather common to have furnishings that have two uses. For example: a chair that also serves as a storage container for linens. Remember to pick up some plants to bring your apartment to life.

If you are allowed to paint, that opens up a world of options for you. You'll want to choose colors that don't clash with the other features of the apartment. You might paint a nice pattern, or perhaps even a full mural. Some people like to have one wall painted a different color than the others as a way to break it up and add some more variety.

If you're working with limited space, there are some options to free some up. In a bedroom, you could eliminate the need for a nightstand by installing shelves on the wall to place short lamps and alarm clocks. On the slightly more expensive side of things, you could consider bifold doors, which don't swing as wide as regular doors.

Pictures always add a nice touch to any living space. You can go buy some cheap artwork, or make your own. You can use an old calendar, frame the pretty pictures and presto! It is now a work of art. Tall bookcases give extra space, because there is always wasted space up at the top of the shelves. You could try to piece something together or custom build them yourself.

To save space, you might choose a portable table that you can stow away in a closet when not in use. A trundle bed, or similar concept of multipurpose furniture, can be a great way to save space when you aren't sleeping, or to have a place for guests to stay. No matter what you decide to do with your apartment, just make sure that it expresses who you are, and have fun with the design process!




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment