Furniture Shopping Online: IKEA Vs. Crate&Barrel

November 5, 2017 | By J Simpson AuthorMy First Apartment

Buying furniture online is challenging, to say the least. Obviously, it would be preferable to go to a storefront – check out the fabrics, colors, and textures; bounce on the mattress; sit on the sofa, and so on. Unfortunately, we don’t always have a brick-and-mortar storefront accessible. Even if we do, there’s no guarantee…

Embrace Your Stuff! Forget Minimalism, Meet Clutter Chic

October 31, 2017 | By J Simpson AuthorMy First Apartment

Move away minimalism, Clutter Chic is coming! There is a backlash brewing against the seemingly inescapable austerity of the modernist interior design trend. The minimalist trend is even starting to receive complaints as being elitist, classist, and the product of privilege. Minimalist living might not be realistic for a lot of people, for a lot…

Living Room Under $500

October 29, 2017 | By Marisa AuthorMy First Apartment

Last month I showed how you can furnish your entire bedroom for under $500. Now, it’s time to furnish your living room with the same budget. Unlike a bedroom, a living room really doesn’t have a prescribed list of “must have” items. A living room is more an expression of you and your lifestyle. Maybe…

Multipurpose Decor: Making the Most of Your Space

October 11, 2017 | By Sarah AuthorMy First Apartment

Decorating your first apartment is a ton of fun, but comes with its own set of challenges when you are in a small space. Apartments can feel cluttered when there is not enough storage space, as most people will leave all of their favorite items on display. What I’ve found to be the key to…

Best Stores for Affordable Decor

September 21, 2017 | By Sarah AuthorMy First Apartment

Shopping for furniture and apartment decor can lead you to a lot of different places, from big-big stores to secondhand shops to online retailers. If you’re interested in fancy or high-quality furniture, be ready to pay top dollar! However, if you want to find affordable decor, that’s cute, functional, and will last through your apartment…

First Apartment Furniture Mistakes

September 17, 2017 | By Sarah AuthorMy First Apartment

After spending the weekend helping my sister move from her first apartment into a new one in the city, one thing became extremely clear: Some furniture is simply wrong in your first apartment! Big, bulky pieces only make your space feel small and are very difficult to move. In a temporary space, keep unnecessary furniture…

Your Entire Bedroom Under $500

September 7, 2017 | By Marisa AuthorMy First Apartment

Moving into your new place? Have no furniture? Well, have no fear! I am here to tell you that you can furnish your entire bedroom for under $500, and a stylish, adult-sized bedroom at that. Mattress: Zinus 12″ Memory Foam Tea Tree Mattress, QUEEN! $230 I actually use this mattress and it is truly well…

Quick Upgrades to Make Your Apartment Cozy for the Fall

September 5, 2017 | By Sarah AuthorMy First Apartment

While your first apartment may be your favorite “home” ever, it can be hard to really make it feel like home! When moving in, it’s easy to take hand-me-downs and discount options to make decorating affordable, but it often leaves you in an apartment that feels a little less than “homey.” However, it’s not hard…

Buying Furniture for the First Time: 4 Questions to Consider

August 18, 2017 | By Taylor AuthorMy First Apartment

Furnishing your first apartment can be super fun (for most of us, this is the first time we’re making large purchases that are just ours). However, buying furniture can also be a huge hassle if you don’t do it right. Here are some questions to think about before you whip out the credit card. How is…

Outdoor Decor to Make Your Apartment Feel Like Home

August 3, 2017 | By Sarah AuthorMy First Apartment

Apartments don’t always have a ton of space for you to personalize and make your living area feel like home. However, there are a few easy ways to add some flair and outdoor decor that make your home feel cozy and welcoming. Check out these tips and add a few to your apartment! These small…