How to enhance enjoyment in apartment living

Living in an apartment often presents more cost-effective accommodation than renting a large house, albeit with some challenges. For example, apartment dwellers usually have smaller balconies or no outdoor space at all, minimal room sizes, limited kitchen counter space and neighbours all around.

Nevertheless, there exist several strategies to make life more convenient and enjoyable despite these restrictions.

Consider an outdoor grill or kitchen

Procuring an outdoor grill for an apartment or condominium is an excellent idea, as long as it complies with the lease terms and any applicable Homeowners Association (HOA) rules. Modular kitchens suit small spaces well, whether installed on a front or back porch. A perfect setup that accommodates space restrictions can always be found.

An outdoor grill significantly enhances enjoyment as it encourages outdoor cooking and potential social gatherings for meals. Outdoor cooking provides an opportunity to breathe fresh air, enjoy better scenery and socialise if desired.

Grilling burgers, steaks, or making kebabs and potatoes become enjoyable activities. To improve this experience further, if there is even a small piece of land available, creating a garden dining area is suggested. Having an outdoor kitchen provides an excellent incentive to enjoy the outdoor space more frequently.

Enhance the lighting

Superior lighting makes a vast difference in how one perceives living space, regardless of whether it is an apartment or a large house. While it may not be possible to replace the overhead lighting that came with the apartment, floor lamps and temporary lighting that doesn’t require wall mounting can be added. For example, strip lighting under cabinets creates a more open feel when preparing meals on the kitchen counter.

For ideas and specific methods to implement better lighting in an apartment, there are helpful tips available from sources like Apartment Therapy.

Spend more time outside

Discontent with apartment living might stem from spending too much time indoors. One of the easiest ways to make apartment living more enjoyable is to venture outside frequently. Going out on days off, despite feeling tired after work, or spending weekends exploring, visiting cinemas, cafes with friends, or taking park walks, is recommended.

Inviting friends over for meals, drinks or movies can also create fond memories in the living space and evoke positive feelings at home.

The more time spent outside the apartment, the more comforting and welcoming it feels when inside. If there is no change in scenery, it’s possible to quickly grow weary of the living space, thereby decreasing the desire to invite friends over.

Decorate the walls

Assuming it does not violate the lease terms, hanging pictures on the wall is a good idea. Decorating the space with photos and framed artwork that inspire happiness can significantly improve the living experience. Although painting walls or putting up wallpaper may not be permissible, décor can make a significant difference.

If nailing items to the wall is not allowed, adhesive hangers that do not damage the wall should be considered. Several brands produce these hangers in different types to accommodate varying weight capacities. Most of them can support more weight than an average framed picture.

Invest in indoor plants

Adding greenery significantly enhances the uplifting and welcoming feel of a space. By placing a variety of houseplants around the apartment, it is possible to transform the environment and the feeling experienced inside.

Choosing a large, hardy plant like a ficus tree for a corner and adding smaller plants to ledges, tables and window sills can make a significant difference. Succulents make great indoor plants as they are visually appealing and require minimal watering.

Apartment living can be an enjoyable experience

Regardless of the size of the living space, making a few changes can enhance the enjoyment of a home. Rearranging furniture, decorating the walls and spending more time outside: with just a little effort, it’s possible to make any apartment feel more like home.

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