Hi friends, it’s Michaela. I’m back to share practical tips for making a new house or apartment feel like home soon after moving in. Over the past few months I moved across the country, leaving California for Michigan. Settling into my first apartment of my own meant juggling unpacking, decorating, and adjusting to a very different climate. I learned a lot in a short time and wanted to pass along what helped me the most.
As a designer, I usually advise clients to furnish and decorate in stages so a space feels collected and lived-in rather than purchased all at once. That advice was tested when I moved in with only the essentials—dishes, bed, and bedding—and suddenly needed everything: a couch, dining table, chairs, a desk, patio furniture, and a new light fixture to replace an outdated chandelier. It was overwhelming. I had to step back, prioritize, and do a few things that would make the apartment feel welcoming even before it was fully furnished.
1. Complete the bathroom first.
The bathroom is small and manageable, so finishing it early gives a quick sense of accomplishment. When the space where you get ready each morning is organized, your routine runs smoother and the whole home feels more settled. I picked up towels, a floor mat, hand soaps, a small tray, and a vintage storage cabinet for extra towels—simple items that made a big difference in creating a functional, finished-feeling bathroom.
2. Pick up a few candles.
Lighting a couple of candles can instantly change the atmosphere. New paint and empty rooms often have a vacant smell; a warm, familiar scent makes the space feel inviting. Choose scents you love and light them when you’re home to create an immediate, cozy vibe.
3. Fresh flowers.
Flowers bring life and color into a space and lift your mood. A simple bouquet on a table or counter brightens the room and signals that the home is cared for.
4. Invest in bedding and pillows you love.
Sleeping in comfortable, pretty bedding helps you rest better and makes the bedroom feel like a retreat. Even if other rooms are still a work in progress, a well-made bed signals home. Having soft sheets and a few favorite pillows helped me unwind after long days of unpacking and made the space feel personal right away.
5. Keep cleaning supplies and a basic tool kit handy.
Practical items matter. Having cleaning supplies and a small tool kit on hand saves time and frustration. You’ll be ready for quick fixes, small installations, and day-to-day upkeep without searching through boxes.
6. Create vignettes with favorite accessories.
Even if you don’t have large furniture pieces in place yet, arranging small groupings of objects—photos, a cherished book, a small tray, or a decorative box—can make corners of your home feel finished. Vignettes communicate personality and give the eye a place to rest, helping rooms feel intentional rather than empty.
7. Display quotes or verses that inspire you.
A chalkboard, framed quote, or small sign with an encouraging phrase can be a quiet uplift during busy days. I like to write a verse or motivating line where I’ll see it each morning to help set a positive tone for the week.
If you recently moved, what are some tips you have to feel more at home while in the process of moving and decorating?
I’d love to hear!
~Michaela
interior design website / services / portfolio
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
Thanks Michaela! One more note: Michaela and her friend Ashley host a Bloom Workshop for creative women interested in blogging, photography, design, and styling. It’s a great opportunity for hands-on learning and community.
Want more ideas for enjoying your home? Check out the book Love the Home You Have for practical inspiration and encouragement.