10 Ways to Make Relocating a Joy

Are you dreading moving to a new pad? You’re in good company — More than 13% of people surveyed said they find moving more stressful than a week in jail!* 

Hopefully, you’ll never have to compare the two situations, but if you do find yourself making the move to a new place, it’s easy to focus on all the heavy lifting (pun intended) that makes it a hair-pulling experience.

However, it doesn’t have to be! Moving is not just logistics, boxes and stress - it’s a great opportunity to press reset and let go of your baggage (literally and figuratively). On this jolly note, let’s try to see the positive sides of it and what to focus on that’s actually worth your energy.

1. Declutter Again

Take time to start anew. When you find items you no longer need or want in your new space, place gently used items in a donation pile and toss the rest into a trash pile. Or, if you might need certain items in the future, put them in storage until you have a use for them.

2. Don’t Pack in the Furniture

New spaces call for new furniture but don’t start loading it in just yet. Before you invest hundreds or even thousands of dollars into new living room suites or useless accent pieces, grab the dimensions and mark out the arrangement in your new place. 

This not only makes sure your stuff will fit, but it also gives you an idea of how it will look once arranged. 

3. Use Rugs to Divide the Space

Everyone loves an open floor plan, but designing for one can be challenging. To separate spaces, use rugs to create sections or themes. 

4. Value Your Privacy

Blackout curtains can help you maintain your privacy, especially if you have nearby neighbors. Plus, they can also keep daylight where it belongs so you can fully recharge. 

5. Make Friends with Mirrors

Lean a full-length mirror against the wall near your front door. Make it a point to take a quick peek before you leave the house to catch simple errors (like a hole in your pants!). 

6. Bring in Natural Light

Yes, we just talked about blackout curtains, and now we’re preaching about natural light (will we ever make up our minds?!). Using natural light can make a difference in your energy bills and the overall ambiance of your space.

To make the most of daylight, place mirrors on the walls that receive the most outside light to reflect it. Also, it’s a good idea to paint those walls white so they don’t absorb too much light.

7. Pay Good Money for a Sofa

Sofas are mainstays in the living room: they’re the seating of choice, plus they serve as a central focal point of the room. Invest in a good sofa that’s comfortable, attractive, and durable. 

8. Just Say No to Bare Walls

If walls could talk, what would you want yours to say? If they’re not wearing anything, they’d likely have nothing to talk about!

Don’t keep your walls bare. Dress them up with accents, artwork, mirrors, or even photos that mean something special to you. Buy velcro picture hanging strips to avoid leaving holes in your walls. 

9. Install Good Lighting

You don’t have to keep those standard spotlights, you know. A simple chandelier in your living room and bedroom can elevate the space above “builder’s grade” and add instant appeal for a low-cost investment.

10. Throw a Housewarming Party

Moving isn’t for the weak, and once you’re settled in your new space, you have an official excuse to celebrate! Throw a party with your favorite people and enjoy a job well done —

Let us help you invest in yourself! For any inquiries contact us at home@carolevaudable.com

* Life Storage April 2019

Written by Carole Vaudable, interior designer.