Decorating an apartment is a great way to make any space your own. Details both large and small can really make each room come alive all year long. Before you do anything else, it’s a good idea to start with an overall plan for your space. At our company, we provide a detailed list of each room as well as all connecting spaces. Exact measurements make it easy to plan. This kind of detail allows each tenant to think about the kind of decor they want to use in each room in their apartment. Many people have ideas before they begin such as the kind of colors they want to use. However, they have not yet nailed down their exact vision for each room. This is why it helps to think about the entire apartment as part of a coherent vision. People can choose to create separate spaces in each part of the apartment and make each room a showplace. They can also choose to create an overall vision in which each room in the home is part of a much larger idea.
Choosing Color
One of the most important choices that any apartment owner must make starts with the use of color. Color affects how people see the spaces. Lighter colors like shades of white make any room feel larger and offer a sense of spaciousness. Darker colors such as deep shades of blue offer a sense of coziness and a feeling of warmth. Many people begin their decorating plan by picking out the kind of colors they like best. Some people choose to stick with white in each room. This is an excellent way to show off other details such as a nice view and elegant furnishings. Others prefer to use lots of different colors. For example, they might paint a child’s room several shades of pink and purple. Then they might paint the kitchen a cheery shade of yellow to bring in more light. It helps to paint a single patch in each room. Then you can watch how it feels over time. This gives the apartment owner a chance to see what the colors look like in different lighting conditions such as early in the day and late at night.
Choosing Furnishings
Once the apartment owner has decided on the kind of colors they want to use, it’s time to think about furniture. Many people already have several pieces they plan to bring with them. At the same time, they might wish to use this time to purchase additional pieces. Others take the opportunity to move into a new apartment and buy new furniture. When buying new furniture, it’s important to make sure all measurements are done as precisely as possible. This way, the apartment dweller can make sure any pieces they’ve purchased will fit into their home.
Item Placement
Each renter should also think about furniture placement. A comfortable sofa placed against one wall in the living room creates a reading nook. Add in two or three additional chairs and this creates space where people can gather at night for conversation and a chance to unwind after a long day at work. Think about fabric choices. Softer fabrics that can be easily washed like cotton are an excellent choice in rooms that see a lot of traffic like a living room. They’re also ideal in rooms where kids might spill things such as a child’s bedroom or family room. Consider ordering slipcovers. They can be changed out with the seasons and easily put in the wash as needed.
The Windows
Another important consideration in any apartment is the amount of light that gets inside. Think about each window closely. Many apartment dwellers find it useful to use several types of curtains on each window. For example, blackout curtains are a good choice in the bedrooms at night. This reduces noise and light. During the day, sheers are a good option that help provide a sense of privacy while still keeping in light and making the room feel breezy on a summer day. Heavy curtains are great during the winter. Look for curtains in a thick fabric in deep jewel tones. These will offer a sense of drama during the winter and help keep in heat at the same time. Create additional drama and a cozy feel in the bedroom by using curtains to create a canopy bed. Children love their own private bed spaces. Adults find canopy bedding adds old-fashioned flair and charm.
Floor Coverings
Flooring is a crucial element that needs a lot of thought as part of any home decor plan. Beautiful flooring makes any room shine with color and pleasing detail. Many apartment dwellers like to add additional color and texture to their floors. Floor rugs are an easy way to accomplish this goal. Large floor rugs that are almost as large as the room offer a comfortable space for people to rest their feet all year long. Look for fabrics like wool that will only soften with use and hold color and value over time. They can be placed under furniture items to help tie varied types of pieces together. For example, a large rug in a mellow shade of beige offers a backdrop that can show off a child’s rocking chair and a long chaise lounge. Smaller rugs can be scattered across any room. They can offer varied patterns that help add lots of interest to any space. A painted canvas floor cloth is a good idea in the kitchen as it provides additional color while also being easy to clean.
Entertaining People
Residents should also consider the kind of entertainment they like. Someone who holds lots of parties should have additional seating on hand at all times. Folding chairs that can be placed in the closet along with folding tables are useful. Small decorative touches such as floating candles and trays where guests can put down any plates are much-appreciated touch. Overnight guests also appreciate an apartment dweller who can put them up for the night if needed with a pull-out sofa or an inflatable bed.
All the Details
Ultimately, all the details in the apartment should form a whole that makes lots of sense. Colors should feel just right to the apartment dweller and help them enjoy their spaces even more. Smaller details like rugs and pictures in each room should also help the resident achieve results they like. Think about what you most find appealing. If you prefer bright colors and lots of patterns, let your apartment reflect your personal tastes. Those who like more subdued colors and understated items should use them to create a refined and elegant look. Each part of the room should also be considered. Windows should have curtains that let in light or keep it out as desired. The flooring should be welcoming and warm as well as a place where the resident can quickly clean up a spill if needed. Each member of the family should feel this is the right space for them and their needs. Children should have spaces that reflect their interests and make it easy for them to do homework and invite friends over. A thoughtful design is one that makes any apartment feel truly like a home.
Ellicott is the official Buffalo Bills Hotel Sponsor. They make it easier than ever to root for the home team and appreciate all the team does to make living in Buffalo fun and exciting.