Introduction
Moving into a new apartment in Makati City, known for its vibrant lifestyle and convenience, can be an exciting experience. However, settling into a new space and making it feel like home can be challenging. Whether you’re an expat, a young professional, or a local resident, creating a comfortable environment is essential to fully enjoy your new space.
This guide covers practical steps to quickly make your Makati apartment feel like home, with tips on adding personal touches, enhancing comfort, and creating an inviting atmosphere. With the right approach, you can transform your new apartment into a warm, welcoming haven that reflects your personality and style.
1. Start with the Basics: Clean and Organize
Unpack and Declutter
A clutter-free space is crucial to making your apartment feel comfortable. Begin by unpacking essentials and organizing your belongings, prioritizing items you use frequently. By keeping things organized, you can avoid unnecessary stress and maximize your apartment’s space, which is especially important in a compact urban setting.
Deep Clean Your Space
Even if your apartment is newly renovated, giving it a thorough cleaning can create a fresh, inviting atmosphere. Clean surfaces, windows, and floors, and sanitize areas like the kitchen and bathroom. A sparkling space helps you feel more connected to your environment and offers a clean slate for personalization.
2. Create a Personalized Space with Decor
Add Artwork and Photos
Hanging artwork, posters, or family photos is one of the quickest ways to add personality to your apartment. Choose pieces that resonate with you, from modern art to scenic prints or family portraits. If you’re looking for local decor, Makati has plenty of art galleries and markets offering pieces by Filipino artists that can add a unique touch to your home.
Incorporate Mirrors
Mirrors are fantastic for brightening up small spaces, making them appear larger and more open. Strategically placing mirrors in your apartment can enhance the ambiance and bring in natural light, creating a more inviting environment.
Plants and Greenery
Bringing in houseplants can add life and color to any room. Not only do plants improve air quality, but they also contribute to a relaxing, natural aesthetic. Options like snake plants, peace lilies, and succulents are low-maintenance choices that thrive indoors, making them perfect for city apartments.
3. Enhance Comfort with Furniture Choices
Choose Cozy Furniture
Investing in comfortable furniture is key to feeling at home. A plush sofa, cozy armchair, or soft bedding can make all the difference. If your apartment is furnished, consider adding a few soft throws or cushions in colors that appeal to you for added comfort and warmth.
Multi-Functional Furniture for Small Spaces
Since space can be limited in Makati apartments, multi-functional furniture, like storage ottomans, foldable tables, and sofa beds, can be beneficial. These pieces not only save space but also help you stay organized, making your apartment feel more spacious and comfortable.
4. Adjust Lighting for a Cozy Atmosphere
Use Warm Lighting
Lighting plays a significant role in setting the mood of your home. Consider using lamps or string lights to create a warm, cozy atmosphere in your apartment. Dimmable lights are also an excellent option, allowing you to adjust brightness according to your preferences and the time of day.
Maximize Natural Light
Natural light enhances the look and feel of your home, so make the most of it. Keep windows clear of heavy curtains during the day and opt for sheer or light-colored drapes. In Makati, where sunlight is abundant, maximizing natural light can make your space feel open and lively.
5. Add Soft Textures with Rugs and Curtains
Rugs for Comfort and Style
Adding a rug can instantly make your apartment feel more homey and comfortable. Choose rugs with textures that suit your style, whether it’s a plush shag for a cozy vibe or a patterned area rug for a modern look. Placing a rug in your living room or bedroom will not only soften the space but also reduce noise, making your home quieter and more peaceful.
Cozy Curtains and Drapes
Curtains are another way to personalize your space and add warmth. Opt for fabrics that add texture, like linen or cotton, and choose colors that blend well with your decor. Curtains not only provide privacy but also create a sense of enclosure, making your apartment feel like a sanctuary.
6. Personalize Your Bedroom for Restful Sleep
Invest in Quality Bedding
Since your bed is a focal point in the apartment, quality bedding can greatly influence how cozy and inviting it feels. Choose soft, breathable sheets, a comfortable mattress, and pillows that support your sleep preferences. A well-made bed with layered blankets and decorative pillows can make your room feel instantly more luxurious.
Use Calming Colors
Incorporate soothing colors, like pastels or earth tones, in your bedroom decor to create a restful environment. Colors like blue, green, and beige are known to have a calming effect and can help you relax after a long day in the city.
7. Make the Kitchen Functional and Inviting
Stock Up on Essentials
Having a well-stocked kitchen with the essentials—like pots, pans, and utensils—makes cooking enjoyable and convenient. Even if you prefer dining out in Makati’s popular food spots, having basic kitchenware can encourage you to prepare meals at home, adding a sense of routine and comfort to your life.
Add a Personal Touch with Accessories
Bring in kitchen accessories that reflect your style, like ceramic mugs, wooden utensils, or decorative jars. Adding small touches can make the kitchen feel less utilitarian and more like a part of your home.
8. Use Scent to Create a Signature Home Aroma
Essential Oils and Diffusers
A pleasant scent can make a big difference in creating a cozy atmosphere. Consider using essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus in a diffuser. These scents can uplift your mood and make your apartment feel more inviting.
Scented Candles
Candles are an affordable and practical way to add fragrance and warmth to your home. Choose candles with relaxing scents like vanilla, sandalwood, or floral notes that make you feel at ease. Plus, they add a lovely ambiance to your evenings.
9. Establish Routines for a Sense of Stability
Create a Cleaning Routine
Having a regular cleaning routine not only keeps your apartment tidy but also gives you a sense of control and structure. Knowing that your home is clean and organized can help you relax and feel more grounded in your new space.
Develop Daily Rituals
Simple daily rituals, such as making coffee in the morning or spending time reading before bed, can give your apartment a homely feel. Incorporating these routines into your day-to-day life brings a sense of comfort and familiarity, which can be especially helpful in a new city.
10. Explore Makati and Bring Home Local Finds
Local Art and Crafts
Makati is known for its creative arts scene, with local markets and galleries showcasing beautiful handmade crafts and art pieces. By decorating your apartment with local finds, you not only support Filipino artisans but also add a unique character to your space that reflects the city’s culture.
Souvenirs from Makati’s Markets
Explore markets like Salcedo Saturday Market or Legazpi Sunday Market, where you can find everything from handcrafted items to organic goods. Incorporating these items into your apartment can remind you of the vibrant community and culture around you.
Conclusion
Creating a homey, comfortable apartment in the bustling city of Makati doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these simple yet effective tips—cleaning and organizing, decorating with personal touches, and establishing routines—you can quickly make your new apartment feel like a true sanctuary.
Makati offers an array of local resources, from art markets to furniture stores, that can help you customize your space and reflect the unique urban culture. Remember, making your apartment feel like home is all about embracing the space and infusing it with elements that bring you joy and relaxation.
With these steps, your Makati apartment can become a welcoming retreat, helping you thrive both personally and professionally in one of the Philippines’ most dynamic cities.
