10 Easy Decorating Tips for Senior Apartments

Did you know that 51 percent of retirees choose to downsize? For some, that means buying a smaller home. Others opt to move to independent living communities or senior apartments. Regardless of how you downsize, the transition might be a bit intimidating at first. You’re used to a larger family home, and, well—you have a lot of stuff. But smaller living doesn’t have to mean bigger challenges! In fact, decorating your senior apartment can be an exciting, fresh start to your newest chapter. Here are 10 tips for decorating your smaller space that will maximize your comfort and square footage!

1. Define spaces.

When each room has its own distinct look, then even small spaces can feel large. Define space in your senior apartment by adding area rugs, wall curtains, and unique color schemes. Betsy Helmuth, owner of Affordable Interior Design in Manhattan’s West Village, shared some further tips with HGTV. She suggests using complementary color palettes. “Generally, my formula is to use three colors in the living area, with one color predominating,” Hemluth shared with HGTV. She also added that you can change out wall colors in select spots, such as painting your living room walls a vibrant color and the area behind your bed a softer color.

2. Use mirrors as decor.

Decorative mirrors can be hung on the walls of any room in your apartment. The mirrors will help reflect natural light, brightening up living areas and creating the illusion of a larger space. You can even use hand mirrors (especially intricate antique ones) as wall decorations! According to Mirrorvana, most mirrors have a hole in the handle for hanging purposes. You can either screw a hook in the wall or use an adhesive hook for a less permanent option.

3. Invest in space-saving solutions.

You’re moving to a senior apartment to downsize and be free of household maintenance. So, clear the clutter and invest in some space-saving solutions. Think vertical. And, think hidden. How? If you’re shopping for new furniture, go for sofas or ottomans with built-in drawers for storage. These pieces are great for blankets and coffee table reading! Do you have a lot of knick-knacks you’re not willing to part with? Then display them on vertical-standing shelves. Floor-to-ceiling shelves will provide the storage you need, and as an added bonus, they add the illusion of extra height in the room!

4. Decorate with plants.

Get your senior apartment some low-maintenance houseplants to hang from the ceiling or display on your balcony. Houseplants will add a pop of color to rooms if you’re moving into an independent living community that doesn’t allow wall colors to be changed. And, besides looking beautiful, plants are good for your health too!

5. Fill your apartment with natural light.

When shopping for new curtains, buy light or even sheer colors. And, when it’s daytime, simply keep those curtains open! Natural light helps make small spaces feel larger. Oh, and sunlight is good for your health (and those houseplants you’re decorating with).

6. Go round.

Opt for round tables, ottomans, or footrests wherever possible. Round furniture is easier to walk around (fewer sharp edges to bump into or get caught on) and it’s a space-saver. “Curved furniture creates a shift in how we experience space,” Christine Jahan, an interior designer and the founder of Christine Jahan Designs, told The Spruce. “Science backs it up: soft, organic shapes naturally put you at ease. That’s why you’re seeing more rounded sofas, arched headboards, and sculptural tables.”

7. Don’t worry so much about the kitchen space.

Don’t worry so much about having service for 12. If you’re moving into an independent living community, then chances are, that community will likely have dining halls and private entertaining areas as well! Not to mention, if you’re downsizing for simplicity, you’ll probably be cooking less than you used to anyway. Go simple in the kitchen and only keep the essentials!

8. Decorate with functionality in mind.

Keep your essentials easy to reach. You should never feel inconvenienced in your apartment. Things that you use regularly should always be stored somewhere that is easily accessible. Your favorite serving bowl? Put it in a lower kitchen cabinet. Your best blanket for snuggling on the couch with your pup? Keep it draped over the back of the couch.

9. Be picky about furniture sizes.

Big, bulky sofas and recliners might not be the best option if you’re going smaller. But pieces like sectional couches can be space-savers and help define areas. Slim shelves can also save you a lot of space while also offering the storage/display space you need. Bottom line – if you’re buying anything new, take the tape measure with you!

10. Love it or leave it.

If you’re downsizing, then downsize! The best part about moving from a house to a senior apartment is the freedom from clutter and household maintenance. If you don’t love it or need it, then ditch it before you even move in!

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