There are limitations to living in an apartment or small condo. After all, you don’t own the property yourself, so there are certain things you cannot do. For instance, you may not be able to change the floors, put nail holes in the walls, or change the kitchen countertop. But don’t think this means you must resign yourself to living in a drab or less-than-appealing space.
Typically, all of the apartments in a specific group are going to look exactly the same. All will have boring white walls, neutral floor or carpeting, and bare windows. In the best-case scenario, you may end up with windows that have white mini-blinds. So how can you make your apartment original, adding in your own individual style? Here are some ideas to get you started.
Decorate Your Walls
Depending on the apartment building, you may or may not be able to paint, but it doesn’t hurt to ask! Many apartment managers don’t mind you painting, since they can easily paint over your color if you move out. If you can paint, create visual impact by painting one wall a bold, bright color. If the rules prohibit painting, then hang a very large and intricately patterned tapestry on the wall. Another option might be bold, colorful prints without a frame or with a simple mat edge.
Special hangers can be purchased for apartment walls. Then you can hang what you like without putting any holes or nails in the walls, which doesn’t always go over well with management.
Add Some Drama to the Floors
It’s usually not possible to rip up the carpet or cut out the linoleum, but you can use colorful area rugs instead. Use brightly colored botanical patterns for the kitchen. With bright sunflowers, daisies, and poppies, you can add a cheerful look to the room, breaking up the monotony.
Consider a couple of smaller rugs in the living room or one large area rug, perhaps strategically placed in front of the sofa. As long as they complement your color scheme, you can choose bold patterns for this room. Intense stripes and plaids make a great addition to a drab décor, particularly if your furniture is solid colored.
Add Flair to the Windows
The mini-blinds may be unavoidable, but there are other ways to add a little color. Sheer curtains are an option if they coordinate with your other décor. If you’re looking to create some drama, drape a boldly colored satin sheet above the window, allowing it to cascade down the sides and onto the floor.
Stick to Color, Pattern, and Texture
The most important step you can take in dramatically changing the look of your rooms is to incorporate color, pattern, and texture into the mix. This means adding paint, throw rugs, big fluffy pillows, and other decorating accessories. It’s a great idea to keep several big pillows on hand anyway, as they are great for floor seating when several guests arrive.
Keep Furniture to a Minimum
To create a spacious look, keep furniture to a minimum. To add to the open feeling, go with low-profile furnishings without any arms. You don’t want coffee or end tables that are too big or bulky. Remember to keep things simple.
Don’t forget to add in a few creative accents of your own and you’ll end up with an apartment that looks and feels like home. A little imagination can go a long way when it comes to create an attractive, livable space.
About the Writer…
For over 4 decades Leon Tuberman has helped people with their furniture and interior design needs. He owns and operates a popular furniture store in Los Angeles. They offer a huge assortment of solid pine furniture for your living room, bedroom and dining room that’s built in the Heartland of America. It doesn’t matter whether you’re shopping for an wooden coffee table for your sitting room or a dining table for your dining table then they have everything you need.