Are you looking for an apartment? Or are you finally moving to your first one? If so, then you’re probably getting giddy at the idea of designing it. However, designing an apartment to become homey and functional can be a bit challenging. But you’ll find the task easier if you start with a blank canvas to fill in.
It can especially be daunting when you’re still in the planning phase. You’ll constantly find asking yourself where to start in the designing and decorating process. For someone who rarely designs a room, this task might seem unachievable.
However, don’t fret because we’ve got your back! Read on below to find out the things you should consider before designing your first apartment.
Functionality and Layout of the Space
Every corner, side, and room in your apartment has a different and unique function. Thus, you should layout your room according to the function you want it to have. For example, place your electronics near electrical sockets for easier access and use.
Understand the space you have to determine how to use what you already have. Know and understand the physical space you have in your apartment to make it easier for you to pick out a design and know the size of the things you will put in your apartment.
Space can be split into two categories: negative and positive space. The negative space is an empty area in the room, usually a space between your furniture and decor. On the other hand, positive space is the area containing objects, such as tables, couches, lamps, and other decors. Take note that there should be a balance between negative and positive space to avoid overcrowding or blankness in your apartment.
The best way to figure out the layout and functionality of your apartment is to start with a blank canvas or blank space. Thus, it is vital to pick an apartment that does not contain many items or require any renovations.
However, if you have no apartment picked out yet, consider talking with an agent. Not only would they help you look for an apartment fit for your budget, but they might also help you find the perfect blank ‘canvas.’ Check out Buy Melbourne Apartments, owned by Tony Street, if you are looking for an apartment in Melbourne.
Figure Out Your Style
In decorating and designing your apartment, you have to know what theme and design you want. Having a fixed theme and design will make it easier to pick colors, textures, and decorations.
Start by taking inspiration from various websites and Instagram accounts. Make a mood board of the things you like and the design you want to achieve. You can also try virtually designing your room before doing it in reality.
If you like warm, modern, and traditional at the same time, you can opt for a Transitional design for your apartment. This design involves stone, dark wood, neutral colors, and rich earthy tones as accent colors. On the other hand, the furniture of choice should be more on the curvier and softer form.
A modern design leans more on cleaner and well-tailored lines. Contemporary design, on the other hand, practices minimalism and the minimalist lifestyle. This design makes use of more negative spaces than positive spaces.
Additionally, choosing a color is linked to choosing a specific style of your apartment. Color sets the mood of the room and can influence the environment where it’s applied. This is where the psychology of color comes in.
Red is an intense color that raises the room’s energy, while yellow exudes joy and happiness. Green is considered restful to the eye, and blue is calming. Meanwhile, neutral colors are basics for interior design.
Set a Budget
Designing and decorating your apartment can get expensive. Thus, it is essential to set a budget to ensure that you will not lose a lot of money while designing your apartment. Be honest with your expenses and how much you are willing to spend for every room in your unit.
Pick Appropriate Furniture
Aside from figuring out the functionality of the room you want to decorate, make sure that you also pick out the appropriate furniture. Do not think of buying big-scale furniture if you only have a small space in your apartment. Save the big-scale furniture for your future home.
You should also get a multifunctional type of furniture. A good example is an ottoman that doubles as storage. You can use the ottoman as storage space for books, linen, towels, and shoes while using it as seating for your guests.
Never Forget Storage
It can be easy to layout and pick the things you want to decorate your place with. However, do not forget to include storage in your unit’s layout and design. Ask yourself what kind of storage you need in your apartment and how many of it you need.
If you need storage for your books, then allocate a space in your apartment for a bookshelf. If your kitchen is relatively small, be creative with how you allocate a small portion of the kitchen for a small pantry. Meanwhile, in your bathroom, make sure that you allocate space for your bath products, towels, and other shower essentials.
Takeaway
Now that you know what to consider before designing your first apartment, you can finally start planning on your style, budget, and design process. By following the tips in this article, interior design can be much easier to do. However, make sure that you don’t miss anything to ensure a smooth designing process.
