If you don’t want to deal with moving big pieces of furniture or setting up a whole new home, finding an apartment that is already decorated can be a great option. Whether you’re in town for a temporary work assignment, traveling long-term, or simply seeking a new living experience, fully furnished apartments offer a level of convenience that’s hard to beat. However, the challenge often lies in making these spaces feel cozy, inviting, and uniquely yours. Here are some practical tips on how to turn that fully furnished space into your personal sanctuary.
1. Personalize with Decorative Items
The simplest way to make any space feel more like home is by adding your personal touch with decorative items. Think about the small details that reflect your personality and style—items such as photos, candles, vases, or sculptures.
- Throw Pillows and Blankets: Even in a Sleek & Modern Suite in Ocean Hill, adding throw pillows or a soft blanket can transform the apartment into a warm and inviting space. Pick out colors and patterns that go with your style.
- Picture Frames: Bring a sense of familiarity to the space by displaying photos of family, friends, or memorable places. Consider creating a small gallery wall or placing frames on shelves and side tables.
These decorative touches will help break the monotony of a standard furnished look and make the space feel more personal.
2. Incorporate Your Favorite Scents
The sense of smell is one of the strongest triggers of memory and emotion. Introducing familiar scents into your apartment can instantly create a sense of comfort and homeliness.
- Candles: Choose candles with scents that relax you, such as lavender, vanilla, or sandalwood. Place them around the apartment to enjoy a calming aroma that feels welcoming.
- Essential Oil Diffusers: If you prefer a safer, flame-free option, an essential oil diffuser can be an excellent choice. Experiment with different blends until you find the one that gives you that “at-home” feeling.
These small additions not only enhance the ambiance but also provide a relaxing environment at the end of a long day.
3. Rearrange Furniture to Suit Your Needs
While a fully furnished apartment already has all the basic elements in place, the furniture layout may not necessarily suit your preferences or lifestyle. Rearranging the existing furniture can make the space feel more functional and comfortable.
- Create Defined Spaces: Consider separating your living, dining, and sleeping areas, even if the apartment is small. You can do this by repositioning chairs, couches, or rugs.
- Maximize Natural Light: Ensure that your furniture arrangement takes advantage of the available natural light. Placing chairs and sofas near windows can create a more inviting and vibrant living space.
By adjusting the layout to match your daily routines, the apartment will start to feel like it was designed with you in mind.
4. Customize the Bedding
One of the most intimate spaces in any home is the bedroom. Customizing your bedding can significantly impact how at home you feel in your fully furnished apartment.
- Choose Your Linens: Buy sheets, pillows, and duvet covers that you love in colors and patterns that you like. Opt for soft, comfortable fabrics that make you look forward to bedtime.
- Layer with Blankets and Cushions: Layering adds texture and depth to your bed, making it feel more luxurious. It also gives you the opportunity to introduce your style through different colors and patterns.
By creating a cozy sleeping environment, you’re more likely to feel rested and relaxed, which is essential in making any space feel like home.
5. Bring In Your Favorite Kitchen Essentials
There are chances that the kitchen may not come equipped with your favorite gadgets or utensils. Bringing in your kitchen essentials can make cooking and dining more enjoyable.
- Coffee Maker or Tea Kettle: Having your preferred method of brewing coffee or tea in the morning can make a world of difference in feeling at home.
- Personalized Mugs and Dishes: Use your favorite coffee mug, water bottle, or dinner plate to feel more grounded in the space. These small touches can transform a generic kitchen into a place that feels truly yours.
Cooking meals with your favorite kitchen tools and eating from familiar dishware can turn mealtime into a comforting, homey experience.
6. Engage with the Local Community
One of the best ways to feel more at home in a new apartment is to engage with the local community. This helps you form connections and creates a sense of belonging in your new environment.
- Explore the Neighborhood: Take time to walk around, visit nearby parks, cafes, or local shops, and introduce yourself to neighbors. Getting to know your surroundings makes the area feel like home.
- Attend Local Events: Look out for community gatherings, farmer’s markets, or social events. Engaging in local activities helps you build relationships and feel more connected to your new area.
7. Make Use of Soft Rugs and Curtains
Many fully furnished apartments have standard flooring and window treatments, which can sometimes feel impersonal or cold. Adding soft rugs and curtains is an easy way to introduce texture, warmth, and color to the space.
- Rugs: Choose rugs that match your style and color scheme. Place them in the living room, bedroom, or even in front of the kitchen sink to add warmth and comfort.
- Curtains: If possible, swap out the existing curtains with ones that reflect your taste. They don’t have to be fancy—simple, light curtains in a color you love can make a significant difference.
Final Thoughts
Making a fully furnished apartment feel like home involves adding personal touches, introducing warmth and familiarity, and creating a space that reflects your personality. By incorporating elements that appeal to your senses—sight, smell, touch, and even taste—you can transform a sleek, modern suite into a cozy, inviting retreat. Whether you’re staying in a Sleek & Modern Suite in Ocean Hill or any other fully furnished space, these simple adjustments will make your temporary abode feel just as comfortable and welcoming as your permanent home.