It’s an exciting time! You’re moving into a new place, and you’ve imagined what it’s going to look like once you’ve added your design and personalization to the space. As thrilling as this phase is, it can also be overwhelming.
If you want to make your new apartment or house feel a little more like home, use these five tips. Even if you’re still living in a sea of boxes, you’ll feel a little more comfortable and settled.
Start With the Bedrooms
We start and end our days in bed, so where you sleep should be the focus of your efforts as soon as you move in. Make your bedroom calm and functional as soon as you can.
Make sure your frame and mattress are accessible so that you can assemble it as soon as possible. Set up your space so that you have a soothing reading light, your favorite books, and a bedside table.
After long days of unpacking and cleaning, it will feel so lovely to be able to slip into your comfortable and familiar bed.
If you have kids, it’s essential that you sort out their room’s as early as possible as well. While they might enjoy sleeping in a box fort for a night or two, the transition will be much easier for them if they can fall asleep in their own bed.
Settle Into a Routine
There’s nothing more stressful than trying to adjust to a new life, all the while not knowing where anything is. Make sure you can quickly identify the boxes that have the items that you need daily.
To make it easier to get settled into a routine, put away dishes, set up your bathroom, and keep a few outfits organized in the closet. Designate a space for your phone, wallet, keys, and any other essentials.
By staying organized, especially when it comes to the necessities, you’ll make your life easier. According to realtor.ca, it’s best to avoid chaos and plan ahead so that it’s simple to fall back into your standard routine.
Invite Friends and Family
Even if your home isn’t in the best shape, invite over friends and family. They’ll be happy to see your new place. Having company over while you’re in progress is a great way to feel more at home. Who knows, they may offer to help with the move.
Instead of planning some excessive housewarming party, invite over loved-ones in small groups. This will create a more intimate setting and help you feel more comfortable.
If you moved far away, take the time to get to know your neighbors. Bring over freshly baked goods or flowers and introduce yourself. It’s always better to have friends in this adjustment period.
Add Your Personal Touch
Once you have your essential everyday items sorted, pull out some of your favorite art pieces and trinkets that make you feel at home. You’ll be surprised how quickly small touches such as family photos can make your space feel lived-in.
If you don’t want to decide on the permanent locations for these pieces, just put them on top of dressers or bookshelves for the time being.
Do you have a favorite scent? Put out some of your favorite candles or essential oils. Favorite music? Play the album as you unpack. Finding things that appeal to all of your senses will make you feel more comfortable.
Cook Meals
Of course, you probably won’t have time for anything but take-out for the first few nights, but as soon as you can, share a home-cooked meal with the family. Even if you live by yourself, there’s no better way to ease butterflies than to eat some comfort food.
The Verdict
It’ll take some time to feel 100% at home in your new place. Hopefully, with these five tips in mind, you’ll feel a little more comfortable during the transition.