How To Make Your First Post-College Place Feel Like Home
So, you’ve just graduated, and the world is your oyster! With your diploma, you’re ready to embark on your next adventure: setting up your very own place. Moving into your first post-college apartment or house is an exciting milestone, and you want it to reflect your personality and style. So, what is the best way to do that? You are just starting your first real job and working on a tight budget. So here are a few ideas of how you can still make your new place your own without breaking the bank.
Embrace Your Unique Style
First things first, let’s talk about style. You’re not a student anymore, so it’s time to say goodbye to those well-worn posters and hand-me-down furniture pieces. Embrace your unique style, whether modern, boho-chic, minimalistic or an eclectic mix of everything. Your post-college space is a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch.
Meet Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Now, let’s talk wallpaper. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a revelation for young adults setting up their first place. It’s trendy, affordable, easy to apply and remove, perfect for our transient, ever-changing lives. You can choose colors, patterns, and textures to match your aesthetic. For a few ideas of your options check out LoveVsDesign. They have a ton of designs that can be customized online with your color choices so they fit the exact look you are trying to achieve.
- Create a Feature Wall
Start by picking a room or wall where you want to make a statement. It could be your bedroom, living room, or kitchen backsplash. Pick a peel-and-stick wallpaper that screams “you.” Whether you’re into florals, geometric shapes, or faux brick, there’s a wallpaper for every vibe. - Choose Your Color Palette
Once you’ve chosen your wallpaper, base your color palette on the room around it. This will help tie everything together and give your space a cohesive look. If your wallpaper has multiple colors, consider selecting one or two for your furniture and decor accents.
Thrifted and DIY Furniture
Let’s be honest; we’re not rolling in money post-graduation. Your new best friends are your thrift stores, garage sales, and DIY projects. Get creative with upcycled furniture pieces, like sanding down an old wooden table and giving it a fresh coat of paint. These pieces will add character and uniqueness to your space. You will be surprised by what you can find, and then you can throw away the Ikea desk that has been falling apart from the minute you put it together.
Cozy Up with Textures
Textures are your secret to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Layer cozy throws and plush pillows on your sofa and bed. Consider a shaggy rug to bring warmth and comfort to your space. Rugs can get expensive, so check places like HomeGoods for discounted high-quality rugs.
Personalize with Art and Photos
Your post-college home should reflect you, so personalize it with art and photos. Hang your favorite prints, travel photos, or even your own artwork on the walls. Mix in some framed family photos to keep you grounded.
Light Up Your Life
Lighting sets the mood. Choose lighting fixtures that match your style, whether a sleek, modern pendant light or a boho-chic floor lamp. Remember the cozy glow of string lights for ambiance.
Green It Up
Plants are the perfect addition to your first place. They bring life and freshness into your home. Plus, they’re relatively low-maintenance. A few succulents, a snake plant, or a monstera can do wonders for your space. Add a money tree to the mix and watch it grow like you and your new career.
Don’t Forget Functionality
Last but not least, remember that your first place should be functional and stylish. Invest in pieces that serve a purpose, like a comfy sofa that doubles as a guest bed or a coffee table with storage. There are even desks that turn into Murphy beds to give you a work space as well as additional beds so you can get the most use out of every tiny square foot of your new place.
Decorating your first post-college place should be an adventure that reflects your unique style and personality. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is your go-to decor choice for adding character and pizzazz to your space without breaking the bank or committing to something too permanent. Embrace your newfound independence, get creative with DIY projects, and turn your first place into a comfortable and stylish home that’s truly your own. Cheers to this exciting new chapter!
