Budget Friendly Hacks for Decorating your First Apartment

 

Doing something for the first time can be pretty nerve-wracking, and there are no shortage of situations constantly presenting themselves to be conquered. One exacting circumstance though, which I feel most can relate to, is the act of your first-big-adult-move (as my mum affectionately refers to it). If you’ve ever done a big move, I’m sure you will agree that most aspects of the process are a chore, from dumping an archive of miscellany to folding and vacuum packing and boxing up. When moving out of my family home for the first time, I remember the sound of tape tearing from itself in angry tugs, and my mum running around, frantic, asking if I really needed this and wouldn’t I be better off dumping that? Once my boxes were packed up and shipped off, the relief was tangible – but short-lived. The other side of the coin, unpacking those boxes in a whole new place, can often triumph the initial hurtle, especially given you are now having to find new homes for everything you own.

Though a huge millstone for anyone, a huge concern for me when moving into my first apartment was the lack of storage available. Maybe you had a similar experience in your first flat. Beyond a too-small wardrobe and the kitchen cupboards, there were very few options for neatly tucking away my things – and I draw the line at storing my trainers by my baked beans. My flatmate and I had to get creative and seek out storage solutions that would integrate well with our limited space while keeping within a strict budget. Luckily, with some brainstorming and a little research, we were able to come up with a few clever solutions that suited us and our new place! Below, I’ve complied a few of the storage ideas that we utilised then, most of which still serve us to this day and will hopefully help you to get the most out of your cramped spaces.

 

Maximise your space

One tip I learned very quickly when trying to maximise your storage with limited floor space is to look up. The opportunity that bare walls present for storage is often overlooked. Utilising your vertical floor space can be a life safer, as this not only helps keep your apartment neat and tidy, but also does a great job at drawing your eye upwards, making your space feel larger. Consider floating shelves, hanging organisers such as wall mounted racks, and tall bookcases to store a range of item. I’ve found all of these options great for storing clothing, decorative accents, reading material, and even kitchen supplies.

Multi-purpose furniture that doubles as storage solutions are also great options for getting the most from your rooms. Sofa beds are great for accommodating overnight guests, while storage ottomans have the dual benefit of extra seating as well a place to stash throws and magazines. I would also recommend you look for coffee-tables with built in storage, or beds with drawers underneath to maximise every inch possible.

Don’t overlook the back of your doors! Over-the-door organisers such as door hooks and shoe racks are an inexpensive way to create storage for shoes, coats, jackets, hats, belts… the list goes on. You would be surprised how much you can get on some hooks, plus these are perfect for keeping things both accessible and out-of-sight, helping to reduce clutter.

Clothing rails were a life saved for us when we first moved into our flat. We were graced with one tiny wardrobe between the two of us in our two-bedroom flat, so measures had to be taken. We set up two clothing rails, complete with built in shoe racks, in the hallway which were fantastic and acted as additional wardrobes for most of our clothing storage needs.

Affordable Home Décor and Furniture

Once we had utilised all of those neat storage ideas, we were left with a space begging for some furniture and décor. Bare walls and empty corners called out for a little something to draw the eye and brighten the place up. With the help of a few budget savvy products and trips to the second-hand shop, we had the place looking pretty cosy and chic in no time.

First up, photo frames. A pivotal point in any home, framed photos usually make up a lot of décor for many people – displaying moments we cherish and memories we refuse to forget. We picked up some plain yet stylish photo frames and rehomed our favourite shots – family photos, my dog, her cat, some art that we love. Having these personal touches around your place makes it all the more intimate as well as decorative.

A relatively cheap but super elevating element that I would encourage you integrate into your first apartment is a clock – fit for both form and function. Large wall clocks are quite easy to find both online and in second hand shops for good prices, and these promise to create a focal point in your home while keeping you on time. From vintage inspired designs to minimal, sleek pieces, a well-chosen clock can be a real statement in any room.

Functional and stylish c-shape tables and stools are perfect for adding extra surface space to your apartment without taking up too much room. We were able to find some affordable side tables and storage stools that created places for us to relax and catch up over coffee, or sit down and enjoy a book or film. We got great use out of sofa and chair covers when we first moved in as well, as these allowed us to create a streamlined look on our otherwise mismatched upholstery. 

Finally, a super budget-friendly and charming way to add some character and mood lighting to your home is by employing candles and tealights. Although it may sound like an obvious tip, candles really are the ultimate mood-setters. We added a variety of candles, wax melts, and tealights throughout the apartment to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. From a carefully chosen scented variety of candles to decorative holders, little touches of warm light can truly change your room’s appeal while keeping your budget firmly intact. Between you and I, I went a little tealight crazy – but what’s the harm?

With just a few affordable additions, we managed to completely transform our home into a cosy and, if I may say so myself, stylish place to hang out! From the living room to the bathroom, we managed to create spaces that are both organised and charming, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to create a beautiful, functional home. Whether you're adding a few photo frames and candles or upgrading your storage, these small changes can make a big impact. So go ahead, explore these budget-friendly décor ideas, and watch your home come to life with personality and warmth. Happy decorating!