When I first moved into my apartment, I was overwhelmed by the idea of making the living space feel like home. My goal was to create a cozy and aesthetically pleasing space that I could retreat to after a long day. I didn’t know where to start, but I believe I’ve come a long way, and there’s so much more I want to add to personalize the space even more.
Natural Light & Artificial Light
First, let’s start with natural light, it can make all the difference in your living space. I usually open up all of the blinds in my apartment to let in the sunshine and it automatically gives me a boost of energy and creates a positive vibe. Research shows that natural light, or an adequate amount of light, can boost your mood and energy levels; it can also affect concentration, appetite, etc.
The artificial light throughout my apartment is usually soft or warm light. I prefer dim lighting during the night, so many of the light bulbs that I purchase are soft white. These bulbs shine a yellowish-white and are best used in living rooms, bedrooms, and dens. They allow for a cozy feeling while relaxing, and you could curl up with a warm blanket and read a good book or watch a great movie.
My balcony is also lined with string lights that have the same soft white bulbs, and it’s so beautiful to see them shine through the balcony door at night. Lights can change the ambiance of your home throughout the day, so this is something to think about when personalizing your living space.
Decorative Trays
Décor has never been a priority for me, but lately I’ve been more mindful of it. I decided to purchase a decorative tray to put all of my “home staples” on. The tray is sort of a snapshot of some of the things I love. On the decorative tray I have a faux flower arrangement, incents, a candle, essential oil, drink coasters, and an affirmation card.
Candles are my favorite and incents are in second place, so it was only right that I place these items on the tray. Essential oil is a must have since I have an essential oil diffuser, and lemongrass is by far my favorite essential oil. I keep drink coasters on the tray in case I have company, but I have yet to buy a coffee table, so I’m working on that! At the beginning of 2022, a friend of mine had a vision party and we pulled affirmation cards to keep for the year. The card has sentimental value so I keep it on my tray as a daily reminder to never give up.
The decorative tray sits on the edge of my kitchen island and adds a personal touch to my space. I love the look of it when the kitchen and living room is tidy and organized, it seems to pop amidst the organized space.
The Comfy Couch
When I went shopping for couches, I promised myself I would buy something comfortable. I can’t stand stiff furniture that looks good but doesn’t feel good. I love lounging in my living room, so I needed a couch that could accommodate that pastime. I purchased my couch from a local furniture store in Texas called HomeZone. The couch I purchased was one of the first I sat on to test out. I fell in love when I sat on my couch! It was worth every dime I spent and I’m still in love. Right now, in addition to bar stools, my couch is the only sitting space I have in my living room, so I look forward to adding more comfy pieces.
Color Palettes
Cream, Beige, and Gray are the modern neutral colors I decided to use throughout my apartment. Like I stated before, I love bright spaces, so these colors allow me to keep the apartment neutral and bright. I might introduce more colors later, more than likely I’ll keep them neutral or pastel. If you’re into colors, go for it! If you’re into neutrals, go for it! It’s all about tailoring your living space to represent you and your likes. Introduce furniture, art, rugs, and linens that you really like. It’ll really take your space to the next level.
Additional Items to Personalize Your Living Space
- Plants – Having plants in the home can boost your mood and happiness. (I recently started talking to my plants lol, but those babies are growing!)
- Area Rugs – These bad boys are cozy if you purchase the right one. Here’s a link to the one in my living room, click here. Area rugs can also bring cohesiveness to a room and bring the entire design together or add a pop to a design.
- Throw Pillows – Throw pillows are another great way to add pops of color and patterns to a room. Some throw pillows also come with cool and inspirational quotes; this can add flare and good vibes.
- Mirrors – This is another piece I would like to add to my space in the coming months. Everyone needs a mirror (preferably one that didn’t come with the space). Mirrors add depth to a room, they make a space appear bigger and more open.
If you’ve been working towards personalizing your space or adding flare, I hope these tips have helped. Happy decorating!
