For many people, your first apartment is nothing more than the stopgap between leaving your parents house and moving into the place that you actually belong in. For some, it’s an excellent opportunity to test the boundaries of their creativity while learning how to maximize space. For all of us, its filled with the excitement of finally being able to be on our own, and decorate according to our tastes.
We all want our first place to be the envy of all of our friends, but let’s face it; interior design isn’t really our strong suit at this point. So how do you make your first apartment yours? How do you make transform it into the place that everybody wants to be?
Here are some interior design ideas that are sure to wow.
Lighting
Yeah, yeah, I know… apartments already come with ceiling lights. But most of the time, ceiling fixtures are hardly enough to illuminate the room entirely, and more importantly, that’s not the point I’m trying to make. Accent lighting, floor lamps, and table lamps do so much to add to the ambiance of the room.
Floor lamps are more than the things that brighten a room. The right one will liven up any space while serving as a stunning work of art. It’s all about how you implement them into the decor.
Keep A Low Profile
If you live in the city, then chances are pretty high, you’re living in an incredibly small space. But that doesn’t mean it has to look small. Get furniture that sits low to the ground. Furniture with a low profile has a magic power; it somehow increases the size of your living space.
When furniture shopping, opt for contemporary designs with a minimalistic touch. Not only will you have ultra stylish furniture that you’ll proud to have on display when company arrives, but your apartment will look a whole lot bigger than the square footage says it is.
Mini Bar
Who can say no to a drink with friends (assuming you drink)? But don’t just house all your booze on the countertops. Have a dedicated place for all of your libations to be put on display.
A minibar is a great way to add some respectable, and sophisticated flair to your apartment. If you’re a whiskey or cognac drinker, consider getting a crystal decanter and some stylish ‘rocks’ glasses to pour your favorite spirits in.
Art
This is a no-brainer! Art is always a go to, when decorating your apartment, and for a good reason. Not only does it spruce up the place, giving the drab, naked walls touch of distinction; but it gives you an opportunity to show personality as well.
Signage
If these walls could talk what would they say? It depends on the sign you get.
One of the newest (and if you ask me, the oddest) trends in interior decorating is the use of neon signs. I would never have thought people would end up putting these in their homes, but there they are. And if I’m truthful… they look pretty epic when appropriately used. Much like L.E.D. lights, neon signs are a great way to add to the ambiance of any room, without overwhelming everything else around it. Better still, they serve as an eye-popping piece of art that is sure to garner some compliments. If you’re looking for a surefire conversation piece, a tasteful neon sign is a perfect route to take.
Mirrors
Like wall art, mirrors are one of the go-to’s when decorating a home. They somehow miraculously add square footage to your home, and the way they reflect sunlight beaming through the window is nothing short of mesmerizing.
You can go for a geometric mirror to put above a console table, or group mirrors together for an even grander look. The larger the mirror space, the more effect it will have on the room; just don’t go overboard with it. And please be sure to install it correctly. The last thing you need is a giant mirror to come crashing down on you while binge-watching Game of Thrones.
Area Rug
An often overlooked aspect of interior design is the area rug. I’m not talking about one of those boring checkerboard designs either. I mean something unique and fun, with pizzaz and character. Play with colors and patterns and see what fits you best.
What are some design ideas that you have? Let us know down in the comment section.
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Author Bio:
Lara Douglas is a young woman who loves interior designing and home decor. She is passionate about new trends and fashion forward home décor ideas. She regularly posts at Neon Signs Depot.