It seems that as soon as college students finally adjust to living in a dorm room, then comes their first apartment. This transition from dorm to off-campus housing is often challenging. Even if the apartment is furnished, making it feel “homey” can be a struggle. So, here are 5 tips to make your off-campus apartment feel more like home.
1. Decorate With Pictures
Add as many pictures as you want of your family, friends, favorite bands, puppies or whatever else brings a smile to your face. These pictures and posters will help make your apartment your own. This can also be a great way to bond with roommates because you’ll be working on finding fun, happy pictures you both enjoy. Here’s how to hang pictures without damaging your walls.
2. Stock Up on Home Supplies
The initial shopping trip to set up your first apartment can seem daunting. It may even take a couple of trips to find everything you’ll need. But having enough paper towels and toilet paper, pots and pans, utensils, dishes, and so on will help you feel like this is YOUR home and will make you feel more settled. Here are some great suggestions on what you’ll need for your first off-campus apartment.
3. Make a Cozy Study Spot
Creating a comfortable study space is a great way to make your off-campus apartment feel more like home. Whatever you decide to purchase to furnish your apartment (even if your apartment comes furnished!), make sure you create at least one cozy spot to study or curl up with a good book. Even in a small, shared apartment, you can create the perfect study nook by placing an oversized chair, soft blanket, and a great reading light in the corner of your room.
[tweetthis]Creating a cozy spot in your #apartment may ease #anxiety before a #quiz or #test. Take some time out to make your #off-campus #apartment feel like #home! [/tweetthis]
4. Add Plants for Color
Adding several small plants is another way to make your off-campus apartment feel more like home. Plants can be an inexpensive way to decorate your space, and they also add a pop of color. You can often find low-priced succulents and small orchids at Trader Joe’s.
5. Accessorize Your Bed
Having a bed you are totally in love with is the first step in making any place your own. Find the right comforter or duvet cover, fluffy throw pillows, and maybe even a teddy bear or small decorative pillow so that your bed looks warm and inviting. This also will help make your whole room feel like home.
Hopefully, these suggestions will help you transform your first apartment into a place that feels more like home. For more ways to decorate your home, check out these 5 tips for decorating your first rental.