Around 31% of Americans are planning to move in 2023, many of whom are after apartment living.
A simple way to enjoy your new life is by creating an apartment plan that you’re happy with for years to come. But if you rush through the process, you could end up feeling miserable in your new home.
Sounds like your situation? Luckily, we’ve got your back. Here are nine tips for choosing an apartment floor plan you’ll love.
1. Know Your Budget
Before comparing types of apartments, it’s important to create a budget. This will determine what you can afford and where you must cut back. Brainstorm ways you can maximize your funds, whether it’s selling old belongings or upcycling pre-loved furniture for your new home.
Another huge consideration is where your apartment will be. Spend time in different neighborhoods to get an understanding of the average price and whether you’d love living there. Before you view here for lofts, make a list of your top amenities and, if you have little ones, whether they’re near great schools.
2. Note the Apartment’s Square Footage
When renting an apartment, calculating the square footage is essential. Note, even if there is a huge amount of space, figure out how to design it so that the apartment is easier to navigate. You should also check that the floor plan can support the number of people in your household.
And, if you haven’t already, schedule an in-person tour so you can walk around the apartment. You’ll be surprised that even if you spot an ideal layout in a brochure, it will feel different in real life.
3. Understand Your Needs
As you browse apartment options, factor in your lifestyle and needs. For instance, if you work from home, you’ll want a quiet area where you can work without being disturbed. Or, if you love entertaining guests, prioritize a large dining area that can accommodate your inner circle.
Ideally, you should share the apartment floor plan with your family and discuss non-negotiables so that everyone is catered to.
4. Consider the View
Your new apartment may have sweeping views of the park or the skyline. If so, you should incorporate the view into how you’ll lay out the floor plan so that you can soak it in. Then, it’ll be easier to arrange furniture, saving you time on moving day.
5. Measure Your Larger Amenities
A top tip is to measure your larger amenities to ensure that they fit with the floor plan of the new apartment.
You could, for example, have a large collection of figurines that sit on long shelves. This means you should measure the shelves to determine whether they need adjusting or to figure out another way to store them.
Alongside your hobbies, make sure that each room can hold your beds, a couch, and a dining table. Even if the furniture seems small, double-check with a tape measure to avoid disappointment.
6. Consider Traffic Control
One of the most important aspects of apartment living is how everyone will move through the space.
As you walk through the apartment, note whether there’s a logical flow or if the transitions feel clumsy. This is crucial if you’ve got little ones because you don’t want the space to feel cramped.
7. Don’t Overlook Storage Space
New homeowners often forget the importance of storage space, especially in apartments. Remember that storage solutions are crucial and with smaller spaces, you must get creative. For instance, install hooks in the entryway for coats and slide plastic boxes under beds for off-season gear.
You could also invest in narrow cabinets and store items on top so that it looks orderly, such as blankets.
8. Try Zoning Key Areas
Another useful layout tip is zoning key areas in the floor plan.
This is a lifesaver if you have a smaller apartment and aren’t sure how to maximise space. The beauty is you can separate areas without installing walls or making the apartment feel impressive. For instance, lay down an area rug or use a coffee table to define the room.
Homeowners can also use sliding doors to close off an area. You can either decide on glass sliding doors, a popular choice, or a wooden one for extra privacy.
But it’s important to choose pieces that align with your home’s style and colour palette, otherwise, it’ll look overwhelming. If you’re stumped on designing the space, always go with a natural color tone so that you can build upon it. You could, for example, add a pop of blue or yellow that flows through the apartment for a unique look.
9. Choose a Future Proof Design
When moving into an apartment, we often get swept away and forget about what life will be like in the future.
Be prepared for lifestyle changes, such as a child leaving the nest or even growing your family. If you think you’ll want a yard, choose a ground apartment that opens onto a green area where you can unwind with loved ones. Or, choose one that has a balcony so you can dine al fresco in the summer.
Find Your Dream Apartment Floor Plan Today
Now you know what to expect, it’s time to design your dream apartment floor plan.
There are many rules to take on board, such as always referring to your budget and keeping the future in mind. New homeowners should also create practical storage solutions and try zoning key areas so that the space flows. Good luck with your venture!
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