Decorating a first apartment or home can be a daunting task. You have to make a lot of decisions and must be mindful of your budget when selecting furniture. While it is possible to find stylish pieces that are also affordable, you must decide what furniture is worth investing in. Should you spend a lot of money on a side table or buy a cheaper sofa? Is a pricey mattress really worth the cost? Will a bargain bed frame last? This article gives insight into making the best furniture purchases for your first apartment or home:
- Measure It All
Before you start thinking about buying furniture, make sure you have a clear understanding of the size of the room you're trying to furnish. If you rent, ask the landlord for a floor plan with the exact dimensions. If that isn't available, get a tape measure and take your own measurements. Write them down, and if the shape of the room is unusual, draw out a floor plan of your own. Doing this will help you to make sure that the furniture you buy is the right size for the room. But what do we mean by "right size?"
Well, if a couch can fit in the living room but takes up most of the space, it's not the correct item. In other words, the right size means it fits your space and still leaves plenty of space for other things!
- Only Bring along Furniture You Like
If your mother had kept something from when you were little, think twice about bringing it into your house. It might feel awkward to say no, but if the item doesn't fit your current design aesthetic, it's probably best to leave it. A traditional flower-patterned sofa may be in perfect condition, but if you've wanted to decorate your home in a mid-century modern style, it won't fit in. Instead of struggling to make it work, it's better to politely decline the offer.
However, if you are on a tight budget, it is worth considering making the most of furniture that you are gifted with that may not be your style. Utilize slipcovers, pillows, throws, and other accessories to make it feel more unique. Additionally, wood furniture can be repainted or refinished to give it a new look, even if you are not good at DIY. This can be a more cost-effective option than buying something new.
- Spend Money on Something You'll Keep for a While
If you're furnishing your first apartment, you should try to buy items that will last for about five years. Spend more of your budget on items like sofas, mattresses, and dressers because these are the pieces that will get used the most and need to be able to stand up to wear and tear. Make sure to invest in a good mattress because a good night's sleep is always worth it.
That said, some things don't have to cost you a leg and an arm. This includes bed frames. Even budget-friendly frames can be durable and stylish while still fitting within the constraints of your budget.
Conclusion
When furnishing your first apartment, it's important to think about both the long-term and short-term. Invest in items that will last for a while, but don't forget to also purchase items that will make your space feel like home. Try to keep a balance between quality and cost, and make sure they come with the right dimension and style. By considering all of these things, you'll be sure to have a great apartment in no time!
Accents@Home offers upscale and affordable furniture to give customers exactly what they need to create their dream home. If you are looking to buy furniture online in Vancouver, check out what we offer.
