Category: Furnishing 101

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Airbnb Furnishing Design Tips Furnishing 101

8 Tips on Furnishing Small Apartments

working on a beanbag in living room

Furnishing a small apartment is often like playing Tetris. You sweat and you struggle to arrange a number of large and oddly shaped furniture into a very limited area.

But don’t panic! Here are a few tricks that might help you fit everything in. After all, the right furniture can totally spark joy.

1. Transformer Furniture

To meet the needs of small apartment owners, designers use tricks to create furniture that performs several functions at once. For example, there is a bench which can be turned into a large table and a few soft stools if necessary. In case of the arrival of guests, how convenient would it be to make several seats from one sofa? Other options include an armchair with built-in bookshelves, tables, and even built-in lamps. Such multifunctional pieces can be perfect for furnishing small apartments, not to mention blowing your guests’ minds.

furnishing a small apartment with big prints and transformer furniture

2. Built-in Cabinets

In a small space, you don’t want to waste an entire wall for a cabinet. If you’re furnishing a small apartment, let’s think outside the box! For example, if you can use a wall with a window on it, you get an excellent storage system and a cozy reading corner. If you don’t want to occupy the entire surface, you can place roomy lockers under the window. This helps make the room appear visually wider. Additionally, you can save space by using a storage system with your bed or sofa, either under the bed or in the headboard, or in shelving behind or beneath your sofa.

3. Folding Furniture

The problem of small space becomes especially problematic when planning a kitchen. To solve this, replace your chairs with folding ones or those that can be easily stacked on top of each other. If there still isn’t enough space, act radically and install a folding countertop. Furnishing a small apartment with folding furniture doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! Check out some of these great examples of folding furniture.

4. Mirrors

The use of mirrors is an effective method of expanding the interior of a small room. With the help of a mirror for the entire wall, you can make a small space look bigger. Use a swing mirror instead of a normal swing door. Mirrors are one of the best ways to save space and visually expand the room when furnishing a small apartment. Or you can look for small mirrors in beautiful frames and place them where they catch the light from the windows.

furnishing a small apartment with built in storage

5. Minimalism in Everything

When furnishing a small apartment, you can make a room look as open as possible by freeing it from unnecessary objects. No bulky sofas and armchairs, numerous bedside tables and consoles. Remove massive wardrobes and replace them with built-in models with a large number of closing cabinets which can hide the items inside. In the kitchen, try to hide all your appliances inside cabinets or furniture. The same applies to our utensils: no matter how stylish and elegant your ladles are, for the sake of clutter, it’s better to put most of them away.

furnishing a small apartment with a small desk with a desktop computer in a white bedroom

6. Mobile Furniture

A great idea for a small apartment is mobile furniture. For the kitchen, choose tables with locking wheels that can be moved to a convenient location while cooking. A mobile nightstand can be used in different rooms: in the bedroom, it can serve as a bedside table, and in the living room it can become a convenient stand for books and a cup of coffee. Furnishing a small apartment with this approach allows you to easily change your interior without major renovations. Plus, it saves you money on buying additional furniture.

7. Corner Furniture

Use all the corners of your apartment. For example, you can have a corner coffee table or an armchair with comfortable armrests. A corner sofa is perfect for a small living room. Despite its massive appearance, it can be very functional, especially if you choose a model with storage. This strategy is helpful when equipping a small bathroom, too. Corner cabinets in bathrooms can help you use every free inch wisely. If you’re furnishing a small apartment, please don’t overlook the corners!

furnishing a small apartment with a small white armchair in the corner of a room

8. Utilize Windowsills & Tabletops

Usually, window sills are occupied by indoor plants at best, and at worst, by all those other items that don’t fit anywhere else. But furnishing a small apartment presents the opportunity to be creative. It’s easy to change this problem into a solution: use the windowsills as a table! In the living room or bedroom, set up a wide wooden worktop atop the windowsill, add a desk lamp, and a comfortable chair, and voila! A full workstation is ready. You can add an extra work surface in the kitchen by using a marble or stone windowsill.

This piece was contributed by Roy Emerson. Roy is a literary enthusiast, a loving father of twins, a programmer in a custom software company, editor in chief of ReclinerFAQ, a greedy reader, and a gardener.

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Airbnb Furnishing Design Tips Furnishing 101

Can Furniture Spark Joy? 5 Tips for Furnishing, Kondo-Style

spacious living room

Do you wake up in the morning and feel a thrill of gratitude and joy from looking at your nightstand? When was the last time you touched your couch and sighed happily? “Spark joy” comes from the Marie Kondo process, a home organizational method about the “life-changing magic of tidying up.”

Her basic principle is that you physically touch each of your belongings. If an item sparks joy then you may keep it, but if it doesn’t, then you must thank it for its service and pass it along.

We’re gonna take a wild guess and say most of your furniture probably does not spark joy. But you’re not alone.

Younger people are more likely to be world travelers, paying off student loans, and renting long-term. This means that we have had to think about furniture quite differently from previous generations. We often furnish our homes according to functionality, affordability, and style (and in that order).

Now, while we totally believe in affordable and useful furniture, we just don’t believe that it has to come at the expense of style. Or being environmentally friendly.

Here are five ways to spark joy with your furniture, Kondo-style.

1. QUALITY

Nothing takes the joy out of furniture like a chip, tear, or broken joint. So when you find a furniture style that sparks joy, go for high-quality, durable pieces. This way, your furniture won’t fall apart easily with use and it won’t break when you move to a new place.

spacious living room

2. EASY STORAGE

One of Kondo’s often overlooked (but excellent!) organizing tips is to make stuff easier to put items away than to get out. If we apply this to furniture, that means ottomans with storage, closets with built-in spaces, and beds and desks with enough storage to contain all your belongings easily.

3. QUANTITY

Less can be more, with the right furniture and the right perspective. We often use several pieces of furniture to try to compensate for what we really need, like several chairs when a couch would do. This leads to clutter and mismatched styles. By investing in one good piece of high-quality, multipurpose furniture, rather than a collection of lesser quality ones, you can spark joy by creating a stylish and welcoming space.

minimalist bedroom with low bed and large painting of a face

4. STYLE

The easiest way to spark joy is to have things around you that you find beautiful! Furniture is easy to overlook in this process. Maybe you have even had some furniture for years, or you look for used or IKEA furniture to save some money. Try looking at it this way. Yes, getting stylish new furniture is a financial investment, but it is also an investment in your happiness. So actually, furniture is one of the easiest long-term ways to spark joy in your home.

5. EASY SHOPPING

The worst parts of furniture are finding it and transporting it. Hunting for a good deal and evaluating different styles and measurements do not spark joy for most people. A comprehensive furnishing company is a solution you may not know about. It sounds expensive, but it actually doesn’t cost much more than the furniture itself. That’s because companies have relationship with designers and distributors, and thus can procure lower prices for you.

can furniture spark joy? A woman sits on a tufted traditional couch and looks out the window

Some people find joy in themselves for being environmentally conscious. Take a look at our tips to make your home more environmentally friendly.

If you like these tips, you might want to spark joy by working with a comprehensive furnishing company. How does it work? You’d start by talking with a designer to select a style. Next, they take the measurements of your space, and then they deliver (and set up!) your furniture for you. Some places like Furnishr even do it all in just one day.

Call us if you’d like to explore a comprehensive furnishing option. We promise to only bring you the most stylish, high-quality pieces, in a style you love. You can also start by submitting a design request.

Furniture doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, if you do it right, furniture can spark joy!

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Design Tips Furnishing 101 Office Furnishing

What to Budget for a Home Office In Your New Place

Home Office
Whether or not you do your job from home, it can be great to carve out space for a home office.

SERIOUSLY, YOU NEED A HOME OFFICE

Firstly, having a home office can help you avoid neck problems from web browsing in bed or on the couch. No shame, but chiropractors are costly! A designated “work” area at home, even if it’s only a corner of your living room, can help you get into that focusing vibe. It can provide you with a physical space to organize all your home projects, papers, and side hustles. Plus, a home office is a great opportunity to show off your style and display some beautiful and inspirational art (and office supplies!). After all, nothing says “you got this, bitch” more than a sleek filing system, a jar of highly pointy pencils, and your favorite badass motivational graphic. That being said, your first step is to decide how much space you need, and for which activities.

 
large home office with wall-to-wall bookcases

 

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MOVE

Now before you start budgeting for fancy stuff, this step is really important. If you’re relocating to a new place, it can be tricky to figure out how your current home office set-up will translate. You may already have a desk, a chair, office art, and various containers for papers and supplies. Maybe you already know the dimensions and layout of your new space! Or maybe all you know is that you want some place to set up your laptop and put a couple plants.

The good news is that this moment right now, pre-move, is the perfect moment to take stock of what is / isn’t working in your current home office. Take a moment to evaluate which items (and habits) should make this move with you, and which are okay to leave behind.

DREAMING AND PLANNING – WHICH TYPE OF PERSON ARE YOU?

If you are starting a fancy new job as part of your move, it’s worth giving some energy to redesign the vibe of your new home office. After all, this space will see you into the next stage of your career development! It should be designed to support you and keep you balanced as you pursue those professional dreams.

Remember to consider your technical requirements. For example, your home office may require a full-size monitor or even a podcasting nook. If you do regular video calls, you should also think carefully about how to light your home office. You also need to think about the best spot to setup (and conceal) your WiFi.

So. Start the dreaming! Imagine yourself sitting down at your beautiful new home office, and take some notes. Is it morning? Are you typing on your laptop on a small table or reaching for your watercolors on a larger surface? If your imagination is struggling, Pinterest is really great for all kinds of home office inspo.

> The Home-Based Entrepreneur

Maybe you’re redesigning your home office because you’re making the leap to full-time entrepreneurship. You will be working full-time from your home office. Maybe you’re someone who enjoys sitting at their desk in the mornings while enjoying a cup of coffee and reviewing a to do list. In this case, you may already have a big enough desk to hold your laptop and your business notes. If this sounds like you, then you may wish to spend your budget on more soft furnishings (lamps, art, rugs) rather than furniture. You could create a special spot for your morning cuppa (hello, clever coasters!) and choose desk art that reflects your early bird mentality. If you want to host meetings, you might want to set a chunk of cash for a stylish couch and an end table.

a non-binary person using a laptop at work
Credit: Gender Spectrum Collection.
> The After-Work Hustler

Alternatively, perhaps you’re moving across the country to take a corporate job. You just need a small designated spot in your new place to put office supplies and electronics. Are you someone who struggles to make it to your desk at the end of a long workday, and your laptop always ends up on the floor by your bed? If this sounds familiar, think about splashing out on a smaller-footprint desk that lives right in your living room. Look out for materials that make your desk space feel luxurious and attractive. What about a faux sheepskin rug for your tired feet? A tea station, complete with electric kettle, could be an inviting addition to your new home desk. A classy shelf, designed specifically for storing your laptop and charger, goes a long way in encouraging tidiness.

The key to furnishing success is being intentional about connecting design with ritual.

PRIORITIZE YOUR SPENDING

Congrats! You should now have a rough idea of the activities you’d like your new home office to support. We at Furnishr are big believers in furnishing in the proper order. What do we mean by this? Well, you’d never buy a chair for your desk before buying the desk itself, right? By starting with bigger furniture pieces, and considering layout and lighting, you can save yourself so much time and energy. Trust us.

Okay! Now you’re ready to attach some cash to your vision. Your home office budget should go towards meeting your most essential needs. And you should have a good idea of which furniture will or will not be making the move with you.

Here’s how a home office budget could play out.

sketching at home
 
 
Small Nook / Den

If you just need some quiet time at night to check emails, then a small nook or den area will do. This is the most basic setup. You will need a desk, chair, table lamp and some storage piece.

Nook/Den
Desk – Best with at least one small drawer
Chair – Use a dining chair for style
Task Lamp (not the bedroom table lamp)
Storage Piece – Since this is likely in a shared space, make this a multi-purpose storage piece, like a bookcase and bar!
Total$800 to $1500
 
Work From Home / Solopreneur

desk and chair in bedroom

If your work requires constant creativity, then more sunlight is necessary. A ‘thinking’ accent chair with a laptop side table might be needed for some inspo time. Painting the walls or having inspirational artwork could be good for this setup. A convenient window treatment solution can help block the sunlight when needed. You will need a desk (sit/stand?), office chair, accent chair, side table, storage, window solution, a decor budget, and perhaps a tree or plant.

Solopreneur
Desk – Choose one with storage
Office Chair – Make it comfy!
Accent Chair – For reading (optional)
Side Table – For reading (optional)
Storage – Choose pieces with drawers rather than open shelves to contain clutter.
Window Solution – Flexible for light control
Decor Budget – Use personal items (low cost / free)
Tree or Plant – Choose low-maintenance ones
Total$1800 to $3500
 
Home Office for Clients

If this home office is actually a client receiving office, then the location of the office should be as close to the entrance as possible. This can spare you from cleaning the entire house everyday. Your budget will of course be determined by the size of your space, but there are a few items most spaces will need. You will need an executive desk, nice office chair, two guest chairs, perhaps a sofa+chair combo for casual meetings, a meeting table if space allows, closed storage pieces, ample lighting, a decor budget, and a tree or plant.

 
Home Office for Clients
Executive Desk – Make sure there’s a modesty panel
Office Chair – Make it comfy!
Two Guest Chairs (or sofa+chair combo) – Style over comfort
Meeting Table – Round tables are more collaborative
Closed Storage – Yes!
Ample Lighting – 1) Pot lights are best to light up all corners of the room. 2) Use sconces (more $) to minimize clutter in the room, or 3) tall table lamps in different corners of the rooms.
Decor Budget – Choose conversation pieces, maybe a large photograph of your fav vacation, or a piece collected from travel, or artwork that illustrates your company’s motto
Tree or Plant – Choose low-maintenance ones
Total$2500 to $5000+
big windows, yellow couch, assorted seating

BUDGET SPECIFICS

Okay, okay. We know you came here to start getting specific about the budget for your new home office.

If you are setting up a full room office space totally from scratch, you’re looking at $2500 to $5000. The price comes down a little if you are designing a desk nook within a larger room, like a bedroom or living room, or if you already know your current furniture will fit in the new space. In these scenarios, you’re looking at between $800 to $1500.

Alternately, you may find that a shared office space is a better solution for your business needs.

We hope this has been helpful!

Do remember to set aside money for framing art and hiring someone to install any larger pieces of furniture. Or just call us, and we’ll take care of it all in a single day. Our designers are here to make your space stylish and functional.

We do big and small home offices, and we also do actual commercial office spaces! So if you show up to your new job and their office needs a facelift, you’ll know who to call ;).

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Airbnb Furnishing Furnishing 101 Other

How to Upgrade Your Home to Make It More Environmentally Friendly

environmentally friendly home


Sometimes trends are just passing fads, but we’re super pleased that the eco-friendly home trend has staying power! We at Furnishr care about environmentally friendly homes, and we encourage you to give your business to designers and businesses that value our planet.

So, let’s look at a few ways that people around the world are making their homes more environmentally friendly! And be sure to look at these tips for making your home more feng shui. If you want to start a conversation about how to apply eco-friendly furnishing in your own space, then book a free consultation with us. We’d love to chat with you.

Work Towards a Net-Zero Home

california

In California, an emerging trend is net-zero homes. In fact, California’s legislature has mandated that all new residential buildings be net-zero by next year. All the energy these eco-friendly homes consume is created through renewable energy. You can take steps yourself to turn your home into a net-zero home, especially if you live in a sun abundant region. You can combine energy-efficient appliances with solar panels and other new technologies, like double and triple glazed argon gas windows. Even if you’re on the city electrical grid, installing solar panels could supply all your home’s energy needs. If your solar energy system produces more power than you need, you can send that energy back to the grid! The rates you earn for returning the extra power are generally the same as the rates you would pay per kWh to the utility company.

Even if you live in a sun-poor region, you still have many eco-friendly design options. Lots of companies can help you retrofit your home to be more energy-efficient. Check with your utility company or community renewable energy groups to explore options.

Buy Natural Recycled Furniture

a lamp made from old pipes against a brick wall - environmentally friendly home design

The environmental problems caused by cheap, fast fashion are making people think twice about which furniture they bring into their homes. Australians lead the way when it comes to buying chic, recycled furniture instead of going to big brand furniture stores. In an interview with Australian Furniture Association CEO Patrizia Torelli, she explains a growing awareness among Australians about this issue. People know more about the danger to the environment that comes with buying cheaply and poorly manufactured furniture. In response, more and more green furniture companies are sprouting up and producing furniture that is eco-friendly and sustainable. What is eco-friendly furniture? It is furniture that is made from recycled or reclaimed wood, iron, glass, and other eco- friendly materials. You’re still buying a new product, but it’s sourced from sustainable materials and free from harmful chemicals.

If you are looking to furnish a space, you have a wonderful opportunity to use eco-friendly furniture! Ask your designers to choose furniture that is environmentally friendly. That doesn’t mean it can’t also be stylish and high-quality! No matter where you are in the world, we promise you’ll find great options if you start to look under these criteria.

Replace Your Old Boilers

heating and cooling pipes

What was efficient a few years ago is probably not up to the latest standards. Many homeowners in the United Kingdom are replacing their inefficient old boilers with new energy-efficient ones. Shout Out UK explains you should take care of your appliances and replace them when they become outdated. This helps you save money in the long term to have an environmentally friendly home. UK plumbing experts HomeServe note how a common sign that a boiler needs replacing is when you’ve had the current model for a long period of time. If you have never changed your boiler, or you’ve had it for over 10 years, it is most likely not producing heat as efficiently as it should.

Install a Smart Water Meter

a water meter

Water is a precious commodity everywhere in the world, and this is especially true in places like Singapore. With water conservation as a fundamental ethos of the tiny island city-state, every effort is made to save water. This is a notion we can all get behind! Singapore’s national water agency (PUB) plans to install 300,000 smart meters so that it can keep track of water usage much more efficiently. Unlike traditional meters, the Strait Times points out that users can keep tabs on their consumption in real-time on their phones. The water agency reads the usage several times a day. You can apply this principle in your own home. A smart water meter allows you to keep an eye on your water supply and to conserve more water and cut your utility bills. It’s a great way to empower regulars folks to use water in a more thoughtful manner.

Good for The Planet, Good for Your Pocketbook

 

green home to save environment

Overall, this kind of design philosophy is good for the planet and has economic benefits, too! Environmentally friendly homes can help you reduce your energy consumption and lower utility costs in the long run, whether you’re renting it out on Airbnb or living in it yourself.

Eco-friendly homes are becoming popular all over the world as people grow more and more conscious of their impact on the planet.

The good news is that, today, advancements in technology and lower prices make it easier than ever to be eco-friendly. New, energy-efficient homes use renewable energy as well as sustainable, natural materials. In fact, we wrote a whole post about how to use natural elements to create a calming mood in your home. Natural elements also contribute to an environmentally friendly home! 

So if you’re feeling ready to have an environmentally friendly home, you’re in good company!

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Airbnb Furnishing Design Tips Furnishing 101

Making a One-Bedroom Apartment Guest-Friendly

Luxury guest bedroom suite with desk

In a one-bedroom, it can feel like you don’t have much room for guests. Whether your guests are visiting for the afternoon, or even staying for a couple nights, your one-bedroom actually has plenty of space to host visitors comfortably! It doesn’t have to be stressful to have people over.

Here are some easy ways to help keep your space guest-friendly while also being livable for you.

Food & Drink: Buy in Advance, and Stage It with Style

trader joe's

Keep some cans of sparkling water in your fridge, and buy a few bags of chips or trail mix to store in the back of the cupboard. You can easily offer these to your guests as soon as they arrive. Additionally, this is a great trick for unexpected guests. While they’re sitting down and sipping on their drink, you can subtly dash into the bathroom to wipe down the sink.

Another way to add a special touch is to use uniquely shaped plates and serving dishes. You can find lots of options at the thrift store — look for the long-narrow appetizer trays often donated by catering companies, or wood cutting boards. A little staging goes a long way to making whatever food you have on hand look special.

Coats & Shoes: Make It Obvious

Contemporary masculine living room

As soon as they arrive, most guests will want to know where to stow their shoes, coat, and bag. Having a coat rack or shoe bin right by your front door is an easy way to visibly guide people towards the right thing to do. Help them feel at home by having a clear place for their things.

Some people like to post a sign, saying something like “Shoes Off, Please”. Signs are a great way to communicate with guests, and they can save you the time and energy (and sometimes awkwardness) of asking guests to remove their shoes or hang their coats.

Bathroom: Make It Easy

This is an easy one. Of course, you don’t need a label on your bathroom because you know where it is. But your guests don’t know! After all, who hasn’t been that person wandering around, looking for the bathroom and praying you don’t open the wrong door?

Look for a discreet sign you can mount on the bathroom door. It should be something you won’t get annoyed looking at every day. The sign could be something as straightforward as a classic bathroom icon decal (get a free gender neutral one, here!), or something artsy, like a poem or sketch about the fabulous joys of taking a bath.

Another great trick is to keep a collection of travel-sized toiletries. When you’re having people over, it’s easy to swap out your regular soap for a fresh, guest-friendly one. You can also set out a set of shampoo and conditioner with their towels, which helps them to not use yours!

WiFi: Don’t Make Them Ask

a wood desk with laptop and salt lamp and plant

Displaying your WiFi code is not just a tip for Airbnb hosts! This is the ultimate way to make your place guest-friendly. It’s kind to help your guests conserve their data usage, especially if they’re coming over to work on a project with you. But for overnight visitors, it is absolutely essential that they know how to access the Internet.

Plus, WiFi networks and passwords can be a fun opportunity to share your personality! It’s fun when a visitor can guess the name of your network based on your interests. So write out and frame your network and password, and mount it in your living room somewhere obvious.

Sleeping Arrangements: Easy Set-Up, Easy to Hide

Bedroom with towels on bed

For one-bedroom dwellers, this can be the trickiest part of having guests over. It can be challenging to figure out how to provide a second bed, a set of bed linens and towels, and create room for your guest’s belongings without totally destroying your living room. Lots of people use futons or sofa beds, of course, which can be a couch during the day and a bed at night. A nifty idea is to apply smart glass film to the windows in your guest’s area. This way, they can control the flow of daylight.

But our best tips for overnight guests involve clever storage. An ottoman with storage provides the perfect way to add extra seating to your living room while also stowing guest linens invisibly inside. Similarly, if you can spare the space, it’s really lovely to be able to offer your guests part of an empty console or bureau in the living room to store their items.

This tip works in the bathroom too. By using containers in your bathroom, you can easily gather up your own stuff and set out an empty container for your guest’s items.

Your Own Stuff: Quick Storage

Finally, our best tip for making your one-bedroom guest-friendly is to have quick storage options around for all your own stuff. This way, whether you have lots of notice, or none at all, you can use your baskets or crates to quickly contain your mess and tidy up, leaving more space for your guest to feel at home.

Guests generally care more about the cleanliness of the room and bathroom more than anything else! Don’t sweat! Check out our cleaning guide for guests.

There you go! We hope these tips are useful for making your one-bedroom space more guest-friendly.

Just remember, most people aren’t coming over to inspect your house, they’re coming over to hang out with you. Being present with your guests and checking in about their needs are the simplest ways to be a good host, no matter the size of your home.

Happy hosting!

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Airbnb Furnishing Design Tips Furnishing 101

Which Items to Get First When Furnishing a New Place

cute dog at home

A lot of people get overwhelmed with the sheer density of tasks that come with relocation. Because let’s face it — moving is like 60% exciting and 40% a COMPLETE DRAG. You can only prepare so much, and for everything else, you sort of have to handle it as it comes! If you’ve already signed your new lease, congrats! This is for you. Similarly, you can also use this article if you’re in the early stages of your relocation process. We cover budgeting for the move, and also budgeting for furniture. At the bottom is the list of furniture, sorted by priority, to help you plan ahead for your relocation and for furnishing a new place.

Remember, everybody’s process will look different. Some of us order new cardboard boxes from U-Haul, and others scope out street corners on recycling day 🤷. You do you, friends. What’s most important is that you feel prepared and excited!

Couple moving into a new home

 

So, here it is! Our easy guide to making yourself at home in your new place, one piece at a time From art to ottomans, we’ve got you covered. Our tried and true list helps you organize your furnishing process by ranking items by priority.

If you furnish according to this list, you’ll start to feel at home in your new place in no time. This post is specifically geared towards one-bedrooms, but it’s easy to adapt it for bigger or smaller spaces.

FOUR BASIC BUDGET CATEGORIES FOR MOVING

First, you should start setting aside money in four basic categories. 1. Departure (packing up, moving out, transportation), 2. Arrival (rent, security deposit, moving in), 3. Set-up (cleaning supplies, unloading, acquiring new furniture, utilities), 4. Unforeseen (something breaks, someone cancels).

 

A good rule of thumb is to plan to spend up to three times your new monthly expenses on a move. However, this is just a draft! Take a deep breath, and let’s start by exploring some possible budgeting ranges for your move. Better to spend some time figuring it out now than be blindsided by it later, right?

Let’s begin with the amount you’ve allotted for rent and monthly expenses. Maybe you’re looking in the $2000 range. Put that figure down beside Departure, Arrival, and Set-up categories below, and we’ll tweak as we go along.

1. Departure Budget (est. $2000)

$0
[ ] add pack up fees like cost of boxes, bubble wrap, movers ($200 or less if you’re DIY’ing, $500 or more if hiring movers)
[ ] add clean up costs (if you’re hiring cleaners) ($0 DIY, $150 if hiring cleaners)
[ ] add transport costs for you (plane ticket or gas fees, meals)
[ ] add transport costs for your stuff (moving van, shipping fees) ($25 for across-town U-Haul van, check out Busfreighter or Amtrak for shipping long distance by freight)
[ ] subtract whatever your security deposit return will be
[ ] subtract the amount you expect to make from selling things
TOTAL Departure Budget =
a tan duffel bag on the ground beside a white chair

2. Arrival Budget (est. $2000)

$0
[ ] rent / security deposit in new place
[ ] movers’ fees ($0 DIY, $100 beer and pizza for friends’ help, $500 or more if hiring movers)
[ ] delivery food for your first night! ($25)
TOTAL Arrival Budget =

3. Set-up  Budget (est. $2000)

$0
[ ] new cleaning supplies ($50 for surface cleaners, broom, dust pan, mop, plunger)
[ ] hire help to assemble furniture ($0 DIY, $30 – 100 for TaskRabbit)
[ ] hire help to hang art ($100 or more on TaskRabbit)
[ ] find new furniture to match space ($500 -$3000)
TOTAL Set-up Budget =

4. Unforeseen Budget (est. $500 – 1000)

$0
[ ] don’t get your security deposit back
[ ] essential furniture breaks en route
[ ] flight canceled and need hotel
[ ] you break your arm and have to hire movers
TOTAL Unforeseen Budget =

Add up each total, and there you have it!

Your goal moving budget is Grand Total (Estimated) = [ ].

Now, you may notice that the “find new furniture” task in Category 3 has a huge range — between $500 and $3000. This category can be the most stressful part of any move.

Man thinking in dining room

In addition, lots of people discover too late that their furniture doesn’t fit in their new space, either literally or stylistically. For this reason, we recommend setting aside a bit of extra cash to solve these furniture dilemmas.

Okay! You’ve drafted your moving budget, so now we can look more closely at how to go about furnishing your new space.

HOW TO PRIORITIZE FURNITURE

We know it’s tempting to rush out and buy a new lamp and a new side table, but we promise you’ll be happier if you furnish your space in the proper order. Did you know it can actually be cheaper to get new furniture at your new location, depending on the distance of your move? We recommend keeping only sentimental and high-quality items, and furnishing from scratch. If you need help with the sorting process, we wrote a whole post on how to decide what to bring and what to leave behind.

Man working on the floor

Finding new furniture can be a really good option for people with a relocation budget from a job, or if you’re willing to spend a bit more to get a designer’s touch. For example, Furnishr offers a moving and design service where their designers take the measurements of your space, give you a customized style pitch based on your needs and design preferences, and then order it all and set it up for you in a single day 😲. DIY is A-OK, but interior designers actually know a lot of things you may not realize.

So, how should you prioritize furniture in your new place?

Bedroom and Dining Area

At the risk of sounding obvious, sleeping and eating are the first activities you should focus on while furnishing your new place. We don’t begrudge anyone the joy of perusing Facebook Marketplace, or taking home a new plant. But if your bedroom and kitchen don’t make you feel at home, then it’s just not worth putting any energy into other spaces! After all, you can keep your clothes and books packed away until they have a place, but you absolutely need a comfortable bed and place to eat.

a cat stretches out on a polka dot cat-sized couch

In other words, when you can eat and sleep in comfort, then you can think about setting up a home office, the living room, entertaining areas, and updating your space with soft furnishings like carpets, art, and light fixtures.

Truly the best way to furnish a space is to start with big pieces first. Then, you’ll know what sizes and styles you’re working with. Another great way to approach the furnishing process is to select one large piece of art work, and choose colors and furniture which complement it.

bookshelf with tree

The ordered list of furnishings

If you furnish in this order, one piece at a time you’ll start to feel right at home in your new place.

0. Choose a style (link: style quiz), or a piece of art (link: art article) to guide you.
1. Mattress
2. Bed Frame
3. Bedside Table
4. Bedroom Lamp
5. Dining Table and Chairs
6. Sofa
7. Other Artwork
8. Living Room Coffee Table or End Tables
9. Consoles and Bookshelves
10. Living Room Lamp
11. Carpets
12. Home Office
13. Decorative Items

Save this list to your favorite to do list app, and cross off all the items already accounted for. For instance, bringing your mattress across town but leaving behind your old bed frame? Awesome, check off Mattress and start prioritizing Bed Frame.

Bedroom with nightstands and table lamps

If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, a good place to return to is Step 0: a style quiz or a favorite piece of art. These can serve as your compass as you select furniture and budget for new items.

So, we’ve got you covered for everything you’ll need during your move, from start to finish. You can use our general moving budget template above, and then hop over to our in-depth, one-bedroom furnishing budget guide to see how it plays out in a real-life case study. When you’re ready, schedule a free online consultation.

We want to help make your move easy and stylish, while saving you time and money. So good luck and happy relocating

Categories
Airbnb Furnishing Design Tips Furnishing 101

How to make your home more inviting

colorful accent pillows on cream sofa

loungeAccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, roughly 35 million Americans move house every year. To some the thought of moving is filled with intimidation concerning cost, labor, and leaving family. But for many, transitioning out of an old space leaves endless possibilities for how you can create your new home. It’s easy to be overwhelmed with endless design and decor ideas on what you want your space to look like. Having a starting point is essential. We’ve curated some tips on where to begin when creating your cozy and inviting home.

Make Your Home Yours

Your living room is probably where you’re going to be spending a large chunk of time while at home, so ensuring it’s an inviting and welcoming atmosphere is important. Always create a physical space for yourself to sit and quiet your thoughts, so you can relax from the stressors of everyday life. It will also contribute to better mental health.

Find the right furniture that not only fits the room well, but is comfortable and makes you look forward to relaxing after a long day. If you have company over, you’ll want the space to accommodate them also. By requesting a custom design package, Furnishr will help you choose the best combination of furniture and accessories that fit you and your space. All the furniture and accessories will be delivered and set up altogether too!

Gallery Wall

Reminder of your best memories

Empty walls can make a room feel sparse and barren, the exact opposite of inviting. There’s no better way to gain visual appeal in a room than to create a gallery wall filled with photographs. The gallery wall is where you can exhibit your own personal style by showcasing pictures in alluring photo frames that catch the eye. A gallery wall gives the sense of a lived in, homey feel. It’s not only a great conversation starter when you have company, but you’re reminded of special moments with friends and family as you pass by. Interchanging photos every so often can give your wall a refresh as well as highlighting other pictures that don’t see as much traffic.

The perfect conversation starter

Paintings and art prints are another addition to feed your gallery wall. A study published by University College London revealed that looking at art can make you happier. Art induces feelings comparable to looking at someone you love. To find art that you enjoy and is unique and personal to you, look at online shops where you can find prints that are inexpensive, yet make a statement. Artwork can evoke dialogue, and because it’s subjective, people can have different opinions on it. You’re able to gain insight on what your guests interpret from the cool print that you’ve incorporated into the space.

Homey Aromas

candles and accents to add aroma

Something that isn’t recognized often is the scent of a home. A fresh bouquet of flowers fill a room with natural perfume, plus they’re a subtle way to enhance a coffee table or counter area. Getting a candle of a scent you enjoy will set a mood when you light it. A study from the Smell Report showed that pleasant fragrances have been found to have positive effects on moods in all age groups. When picking a scent for a room, consider how the smell will compliment the space and help enhance it. Be careful to avoid an overbearing scent that takes away from the room, a clean fresh fragrance is ideal for an area such as a living room.

A Pop of Accents

Use colors and textures in pillows and throws

Pillows and throws are a home accent that can add character to a home instantly. Find pillows that contrast the furniture in the room. This will give form and flow to your furniture, a variety of textured pillows will highlight a solid colored couch. Throws are a great addition to enhancing a home, you can lay one (or a few-the more you have, the cozier movie nights are) on a couch to add another layered element to the room. If you have neutral furniture, a brighter colored pillow or throw can complement the overall aesthetic and tie the space together.

 

Layering rugs is the trend

Layering multiple rugs in a room adds dynamic visual appeal to the space. Rugs instantly add a homey feel to any area and can help fill a space without physically cluttering a room. Playing around with different textiles, colors, and placements can accentuate your personal aesthetic when you walk into the room. Positioning one rug on top of another in a diagonal formation will create the effect of a walkway, almost leading guests to whatever furniture is lined up in the path. When placing rugs, make sure to consider the features and size of the room. It can be easy to go overboard and totally overwhelm a space if your rug choices don’t fit the dimensions and color of the room accordingly.

Personal Memorabilia

Showcase only your most favourite items. Be sparing and tasteful.

Your home should reflect your personality and tell your story- design and decorate with personal items that make you happy. Making an inviting home is all about expressing your uniqueness and individuality so people can get a sense of you. Your personal style is the first priority in crafting your space, so highlight the things that cater to your taste. If you have a collection that you’re proud of, don’t be afraid to showcase it! A huge part in creating your home is to add elements that make you excited to walk back through the door, as well as inviting others into a space that you love. Your home is your own personal sanctuary. So you need to make it yours!

Categories
Featured Furnishing 101

Moving Checklist: 6 Ways to Handle a Cross-Country Move

planning a move

You’re about to move across the country! And with our help, you’re gonna handle this like a boss. You got this.

Here are our Furnishr’s top six tips for an easy, breezy, beautiful moving process.

1. Ignore unhelpful backseat drivers.

This is your time, your move! Your mom and your best friend may have their own opinions, but it’s time for you to step into the driver’s seat. You need to decide which apartment to rent, which movers to hire, and which items to keep and which to toss. These are important decisions that can make or break your transition into your new home! Ease the transition into your new home and have some faith in yourself. After all, it’s you that has to live with the decisions.

2. Get multiple quotes.

a person sits with a planner and pencil in their lap planning a move

You know what bosses do? They ask for the best deal. Bosses shop around. And they stay organized. But if you’re going to handle this move like a boss, you should anticipate some tough decisions. Sometimes the cheapest option isn’t the best option. Do a cost-benefit analysis and ask future-you what she wants. It might take you some time but it’ll be worth the hassle in the long run!

3. See if your company will cover some costs.

Many companies offer some kind of relocation package. Even if you weren’t offered this, it can’t hurt to ask. It shows the company that you value your time, and that you’re not afraid to speak up for yourself. Who knows, maybe they have a couple of hundred bucks to help cover a few boxes? Why not get a head-start on your new life and be the boss that you are!

4. Sort your stuff before you pack.

a blonde woman holds a cardboard moving box in front of a yellow wall

Now is the time to Marie Kondo your possessions. Don’t waste energy schlepping stuff that doesn’t make you happy. If you’re making an epic move, it’s probably for a really cool reason. You’re chasing your dreams, and that’s awesome! So take the time to sort your things out before you go. Everybody loves a “take my stuff” party. Oh, and don’t forget to bring sharpies.

5. Plan your future space.

Knowing where you’ll be living is a huge stress-reliever. No one wants to land in a new country with no sense of where to go. Take the time and imagine the best you that you can be, and design your new space accordingly. Pinterest can also be a great way to find the best design inspiration that suits your needs. This is not something you have to plan all by yourself. Feel free to ask a friend to help you plan your new pad.

If you really want to start fresh, use a company like Furnishr that takes your floorplans and completely furnishes your new space in a single day. But if you’re struggling with long-distance apartment hunting, here’s a pro tip. Look for a short-term sublet just to get your feet in the ground. In saturated real estate markets, this option gives you time to meet with landlords in person, even though moving twice sucks.

6. Take care of yourself when you get there.

a woman in shorts stands in a park

When you arrive, walk around as much as you can for the first few weeks. If you drive everywhere, you may struggle to get your orientation. Try to figure out where you’ll most likely be hanging out the most, like the local grocery or dive bar down the street. Don’t be discouraged if you’re feeling homesick! Remember that the discomfort you’re feeling is a totally normal part of reinventing yourself. If you’re really feeling down, don’t be hesitant to call up old friends or treat yourself to dinner if you need a boost. And remember that your friends miss you too. But once you get to know your new neighborhood, we promise you’ll feel right at home.

And that’s it!

If you manage to complete six of these steps while planning a cross-country move, then you are definitely a boss.

You’re headed for great things, and the future is looking up. You’re a boss, remember? If you need some help planning your new space, remember to call on your friends (Furnishr can help, too).

Categories
Design Tips Featured Furnishing 101

What An Interior Designer Knows That You Don’t

parcgrove apartments party room

Over the last two decades, popular design trends have shifted, moving away from faux DIY chic towards sleek and authentic. After all, the year 2000 was twenty years ago! 

 

Much has changed, especially when it comes to how people choose to design their homes. You may think you have the necessary skills for picking out your own furnishings. But you might not know certain things that only a trained interior designer would know, as it’s difficult to keep up-to-date with all the industry trends on your own.

So, when is it sensible to hire an interior designer rather than doing it yourself?

Well, the Furnishr team is a bit biased. If you’re not doing a big renovation and just need some nice furniture, we believe that the easiest way to furnish your home is to hire us! If you want to give your space a facelift, you might choose to do a renovation. That process can be very time-intensive. For instance, here is how that process could look if you hire a consultant.

Library before photo
Before
Home Library with Wooden Bookshelves
Furnished

For pricing, some designers will charge by the hour plus the cost of materials, whereas others charge a fixed project cost including all materials and labor. They might begin with an on-site consultation to understand your needs and requirements, budget, timeline, etc. Then they come back to propose a few design concepts and bring some samples of materials. Some interior designers will draft a few drawings of your living spaces.

After the design is finalized, you might spend a few days or weeks shopping with the designer. Alternatively, the designer could choose everything for you and have pictures and samples for you to approve. After all the materials, products, and plans are finalized, then the contractors will start working. The furniture selecting process may come at the very end after all the renovations are done. As you can see, hiring an interior designer can be an extensive and costly process.

a floor plan for use during interior design consultation

If that sounds like overkill, perhaps you just need a furniture facelift! This process is much simpler and faster. At Furnishr, we do a free design consultation, followed by a brief collaborative process with your floor plans and your design preferences. The best part? In one day, Furnishr delivers, sets up, and cleans up your entire space. That’s our promise to you. Furnishr is the one-stop shop for all your furnishing needs.

Whether you hire someone for a renovation, or you just need a furniture facelift, you may find that some expertise is worth the investment. If you’re still unsure, here are five aspects that interior designers know that you might not.

1. Access to Suppliers

Everyone likes a good discount! You may consider yourself extremely good at bargaining or couponing, but sometimes those skills may not be enough. Often times, you end up settling on a less attractive piece of furniture that is cheaper than the one you had originally hoped for. Not only that but as much as you are able to scour websites or flea markets for a good deal, an experienced interior designer will have connections to suppliers that can ultimately save you more money in the long run.

two women sitting in chairs using laptop computers photographed from above

Additionally, some stores and suppliers work exclusively with designers and trade professionals. These are items that you can not just walk in and purchase. This gives designers special access to pricing as well as particular styles. An interior designer can find what you need while potentially saving you time, money, and novice mistakes in the process. Renovations can be expensive so don’t settle for less and consider reaching out to a professional.

2. Product Knowledge

You should pick an interior designer who has either training or work experience. This gives them knowledge that an average Joe like you may not have. For instance, what do you know about the durability of different materials? An interior designer worth their money will have worked with existing brands and products. For example, did you know about smart glass film for windows? They’re an easy to implement solution for controlling daylight without having to install curtains.

An interior designer will know which items hold up over time and which ones use cheap paint that chips off. You might like the look of a rug, but you may not have the trained eye that can spot a cheap material that will wear out within six months. A trained professional is also able to find the right material that will match the tones and functionality of your ideal dream house. After all, aesthetics should be the least of your worries if all your furniture isn’t lasting as long as you hoped it would.

3. Technical Knowledge

Especially if you’re doing a renovation, a designer can help with the necessary technical knowledge and industrial experience to deliver the space of your dreams.

a bedroom with a concrete wall, bedside table, and warm colored painting above the bed

They know about the functional aspects of a space and structural standards (eg. How deep should a counter be in a kitchen? How many pot lights to install for a 600 square-feet space?). Trying to guess at these figures yourself could become a costly mistake later. If these aspects have not crossed your mind, perhaps it’s a better idea to hire some professional help. A designer who has studied specifications and designed 20 kitchens will be able to tell you, from experience, what works in spaces like yours. This can be a huge time saver rather than performing tedious measurements yourself.

4. Outside Perspective in Design

It’s easy to get stuck in a rut, especially when it comes to interior design. Once you choose your furniture and paint, it can feel intimidating to redo anything, even though your tastes and your life are totally different now. If you’re designing a new space for yourself, it makes sense to have help getting out of your own head. 

two women chatting with a notebook

An interior design consultant can help you imagine a new space with new designs that reflect your current interests. It sounds counterintuitive, but a good consultant can help you design something better and more personal than you could imagine yourself.

Pinterest can be a really great platform to spark creativity and inspiration in creating your own room design. However, you shouldn’t try to recreate these rooms. At the end of the day, this is your home. Rather than striving for a room that looks like an Ikea showroom, interior designers have the expertise to create a unique room layout that matches your individuality and needs. Their extensive experience allows them to have a greater idea of the style you are looking for, even though you may have trouble articulating it at first. If this sounds appealing to you, consider investing in a design consultant.

5. Project Management

furniture assembly needs project management

Many designers can handle or arrange for the installation of your furnishings if desired. Just imagine if someone else could handle the entire delivery, rather than you bouncing from shop to shop trying to cram pieces in your rented moving van. This alone could be worth the price of hiring a design consultant.

They will also handle the coordination of multiple design aspects if you’re doing a full renovation. That is to say, certain things must go in a specific order. The floors should be installed before all else but may go in parallel with lighting installations to shorten the schedule. 

An experienced interior designer will know all that and their close working relationships with contractors and suppliers is often beneficial to scheduling flexibility. They know how to plan the paint schedule, and will keep detailed floor plans to make sure nothing goes awry.

a woman looks down at her phone and smiles

A major perk of hiring help is that your design process can be done in a single effort, rather than drawing it out over months and slowly losing interest. With an interior design consultant on board, you can briefly concentrate all your energy on designing your space and then reap the rewards. An interior designer will be your single point of contact for every part of a redesign.

They can hide a lot of the chaos and headaches from you so you can enjoy the process and the result. If you’re someone who doesn’t need to be overwhelmed by additional decisions and chaos in life, then a designer is almost always necessary.

So, what should I do?

It’s a big commitment to redesign your space, we get it! You’re balancing cost against the outcome, and you want to come out ahead in the end. This generation has been lucky enough to benefit from amazing design inspiration, from Pinterest to interior design & renovation reality TV shows. Some designers, like Design*Sponge’s Grace Bonney, are fervent defenders of trends.

But design is not just about having a good eye. A good designer has a good eye, but also access, knowledge, and connections beyond your experience.

 

So before you plan your big move, think about the strengths that an interior design consultant could bring to the table. Is a renovation really necessary? Could a high-quality furniture facelift do the trick?

Check out Furnishr’s solution to “enjoy your dream home, set up in just a day” — you can book a free call with one of our designers to learn more. And good luck with this very major step in your life! We know you’ll do great.

>> Maybe your space isn’t in dire need of a facelift after all. Try some of these DIY projects to refresh your space instead. Please leave a comment down below! We would love to hear about your experience working with an interior designer or home renovation! Thanks for reading!

Categories
Airbnb Furnishing Design Tips Furnishing 101

How to Make Your Airbnb Home More Cosy With Natural Elements

midcentury classic lounge chair with plant

The world has become a fast-paced environment with a clear focus on efficiency, however, for most individuals, this can feel overwhelming. In order to escape the busy city-scape, working professionals are utilizing Airbnb to find their inner peace, by carving out a weekend to go away on a personal retreat.

Recent data shows that meditation and hiking activities are among the most trending Airbnb Experiences based on bookings, this year over last. Additionally, the Airbnb’s 2019 interior design trend predictions point to a similar trend toward nature and mindfulness, like Green Is the New Black and Stay-in-imalism.

We could all use more meditation in our lives. Whether you are thinking of redesigning your home or rental property, it’s easy to create a restful space that appeals to this category of guests. Here you will find 10 effective ways to make your space a haven for retreat-seekers.

Natural Element Décor Ideas

1. Aromatics

scented oil

Use aromatics like candles or essential oils to gently activate the senses. Remember that each guest will have a different sensory preference so you may wish to offer a basket of scented items rather than spritzing them yourself. Let your guests choose which scents to utilize. To set the tone, you could add a note about fragrances in your welcome letter.

2. Choose natural materials

for your furnishings, like wood and bamboo. Look for wooden tables, wooden spatulas, or small wood sculptures. Even a simple tray of pebbles can serve as an invitation for your retreating guest to breathe a bit deeper.

3. Plants

Plants around the room can make space feel fresh and calm. Any kind of greenery will clean the air and bring aesthetic interest to what could otherwise be a stuffy space. For those with a black thumb, even fake plants help give the appearance of a lively retreat haven. A small bouquet of fresh flowers can do the trick as well.

4. Books

Try to incorporate books on mindfulness along with the coffee table or bookshelves. When a guest spots that meditation book or collection of Buddhist poetry on the shelf, they might feel extra inspired to relax. 

5. Avoid appropriative decor.

As you look for items to create a more peaceful environment, it may seem counterintuitive to avoid deity statues or calligraphic illustrations. However, if you choose cultural items that are not from your culture, you run the risk of offending guests who are from that cultural background. It’s not a hard and fast rule. We live in a multicultural world, after all, and we can all appreciate items of beauty. Just remember that objects you find inspiring may have a completely different meaning for someone else.

6. Natural Lighting

midcentury classic lounge chair with plant

Incorporate natural lighting around t

he household wherever possible. This can be done by adding sheer curtains behind heavy curtains. Thi

s also gives your guests the option to enjoy natural light in priva

cy. Additionally, consider moving a chair or couch so it’s oriented towards the window. This way your guests will be drawn to sit under the natural light. 

7. Soft furnishings

Soft furnishings provide serious comfort to retreat-goers. High-pile rugs, throw blankets, and soft robes give that extra dose of physical luxury. By providing items that help your guest’s body and mind to relax.

8. Minimize Electronics

Minimize overbearing electronics and tuck away cords. If you have a big TV, buy a simple cabinet to hide the flat screen. Not only that, tuck less-used kitchen appliances into the cupboards and leave a note about how to find them. By keeping electronics and cords out of sight as much as possible, you make it easy for someone on a retreat to focus on their inner state.

9. Negative space

The trend towards minimalism is here to stay! Rather than arranging knick-knacks together on a shelf, you might try displaying just one or two items, leaving lots of space in between. Look over your space with an eye towards clutter. What do you have more than five of? Can you reduce it to three and still serve your guest?

10. Reduce visual stimulation.

Loud colors have an energizing effect – that’s why fast food restaurants tend to use bright primary colors in their decor. Be mindful where you place mirrors — too many mirrors can create visual noise for your guest. Please don’t force your guests to look at themselves in the mirror before they’ve had their morning matcha!

Zen Trend

bonsai tree on dining tableYou can trust that mindfulness is a growing trend among many demographics, no matter your location. Cities are still a major destination for Airbnb guests, with the most popular North American cities in 2018 being New York City, Orlando, and Miami. Airbnb also announced a growing trend towards “more rustic and non-traditional digs” like nature lodges and yurts. So, even if your space is not typically ‘zen’, it could still benefit your business to Incorporate zen principles.

After all, relaxation and well-being will never go out of style!

Download this checklist here, and zen your Airbnb today.