Furnishing an apartment can often be exciting. But there are a few things that can go wrong if you’re not careful. Below are just some of the mistakes to avoid when furnishing an apartment.
5 Key Mistakes To Avoid When Furnishing An Apartment
Going too big with furniture
Apartments typically have smaller rooms. As a result, larger furniture may not fit into them, or may make rooms look cramped. You also need to consider access into your flat. If you’ve got lots of stairs or tight corridors to negotiate, you could find that bulky furniture is too challenging to get into your apartment. And unless you’re willing to hire removalists, you could find it hard to get this furniture out again when you move. This is why it’s better to keep furniture light and small (or at the very least opt for flat-pack options that can be easily disassembled and reassembled).
Choosing noisy flooring
While it’s not illegal to install laminate flooring in an upstairs flat, you should consider the impact it may have on your neighbours. You may find that you soon get noise complaints – particularly if you have kids or pets. Carpet is typically a more considerate choice in upstairs apartments. That said, if you really love the look and cleaning convenience of laminate flooring, you can lay down laminate floors with a sound-insulating underlay beneath to muffle the pitter-patter sounds it may make. The same goes for choosing tile flooring.
Neglecting plants
Houseplants are not just for houses. In fact, houseplants are even more important to have in an apartment, because most generally don’t have gardens. Houseplants can serve as a natural air purifier and can have a psychologically calming effect. The kitchen windowsill tends to be the most popular place to display plants, but you can add them to any room. Check out this guide for a few apartment houseplant decorating ideas.
Letting balcony furnishings blow away
Some balconies – particularly those on upper levels – can get quite blustery, so you need to be careful how you decorate them. Consider placing potted plants by the wall or in the corners to stop them blowing over. When choosing outdoor furniture on a balcony, avoid very light furniture that is likely to be picked up by the wind and make sure cushions are securely tied to chairs.
Not knowing when to get permission
If you’re renting an apartment, you’ll likely need to get your landlord’s permission before making any permanent changes – which could include something as small as putting a nail in the wall. Make sure that you don’t make any such modifications without notifying your landlord first. Apartment owners typically have more freedom to modify a property – you shouldn’t need to ask anyone for permission when painting a wall or even fitting a new bathroom.
However, when it comes to installing new windows or knocking down interior walls in a leasehold property, you’ll likely still need to seek permission from the apartment building owner (most owned flats are leasehold).
Conclusion
In conclusion, furnishing an apartment is an exciting process that allows you to personalize your space and create a comfortable living environment. However, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can impact the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your apartment. Avoid going too big with furniture, as it can make your space feel cramped and cluttered. Opt for appropriately sized pieces that fit well within the proportions of your rooms. Be mindful of flooring choices, as noisy materials can disrupt the tranquility of your living space. Incorporating plants not only adds a touch of natural beauty but also improves air quality and creates a more inviting atmosphere.
When furnishing your balcony, choose furniture and decor that can withstand outdoor conditions and prevent items from being blown away. Lastly, be aware of the rules and regulations regarding modifications or additions to your apartment and seek permission when necessary. By avoiding these key mistakes, you can create a well-furnished apartment that is functional, stylish, and reflective of your personal taste and lifestyle.
