Maximize Your Comfort AND Square Footage with These 10 Easy Decorating Tips for Senior Apartments!

When moving to an independent living community, downsizing might seem a little intimidating at first. You’re used to your 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.

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, which will brighten up living areas and create the illusion of a larger space.

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, it adds 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!

Related: 5 Best Houseplants For Seniors

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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 (less sharp edges to bump into or get caught on) and they’re a space-saver.

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. 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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Do you need help with retirement planning? Then check out Bob Carlson’s Retirement Watch!