Apartments With Attitude: How To Have One On A Shoestring Budget
If anything, it might console modern apartment dwellers that the problem of how to hold increasing populations within inflexible boundaries has been with us for millennium. In ancient Rome, only the super rich could live in single dwellings or individual houses or homes; everyone else were limited to apartment buildings that were as high as eight stories. But apartment dwelling need never be a drag. Outside, apartments can be as exciting as limp toast. Inside, they can be totally disarming. It is up to you, the tenant, to transform the blank canvas of the apartment into a contemporary style that exudes attitude.
Tip 1 – Understand that there are things you can’t change.
These include the direction of lighting, floor to ceiling heights, general layout, and the size and direction of the windows. You can work around them or with them, but you can’t do away with them.
Tip 2 – Understand that the modern style has certain hallmarks.
These include strongly unified sets of spaces, a decided restraint, dividers instead of walls, no blinds, no curtains, mirrors to give depth, absence of cramped spaces, and a completely uncluttered look. Likewise, you’ll never find in the modern style crown moldings, casings, baseboards, nor any other trim work. On the other hand, you’ll find recessed lighting, concealed lighting in other areas, and simple metal handrails.
Up to this point, you’ll have an apartment that is decorated in modern style that is so popular now. But we’re not stopping here, right? We’re going for nothing less than an apartment that electrifies. So here it is.
Tip 3 – Fur and metallic are two safe choices for 2010, according to experts, so we will work around these two selections.
Consider making as focal point in the living room, architectural pieces or even a metal tree art in burnished copper. This should give you an attention-grabbing counterpoint to the abundance neutral color scheme. Contemporary metal wall art or tropical wall sculptures does not have to be costly; there are many quality affordable options on the market. Once considered a luxury, metal artwork are now available in a myriad of finishes to suit most anyone’s decorating budget.
We’re not done yet with the living room. Consider next a richly-upholstered minimalist lounging chair with a purple faux fur carelessly hung over its back. Purple’s hot in 2010, retaining that association with wealth which goes as far back as ancient Rome. The word “comfort” has turned into a buzz word for 2010. The electrifying colors should add chutzpah to the pervading neutral color palette.
Tip 4 – Bring the magic into the bedroom.
For the bedroom, use concealed lighting to make the bed look like it is floating. You can add contrast by placing a Greek stool at the foot of the bed. You might want to complete the rich cultural mix by having Japanese sandals and Japanese woven rush pillows. You should work to achieve the glow of intimacy with a nightlight.
If you liked this article, you’ll love the one about crafts for Kids.
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