Starting Fresh: Furnishing My First Adult Apartment
After four years of living in student housing, I finally made the leap to my own “adult” apartment. It’s a thrilling yet intimidating experience, especially since I’m starting from scratch. With a new job in a distant city, I’m eager to create a cozy space that feels like home.
Prioritizing Essentials
My previous landlords furnished my apartments, so I only owned a collapsible table and a desk shelf. Now, I needed to invest in some essential pieces. With a limited budget of $1,000 CAD, I focused on the must-haves.
A Good Night’s Sleep
A comfortable mattress was top on my list. My parents always stressed the importance of a quality mattress, and I didn’t want to compromise on this. I visited Sleep Country, a reputable mattress retailer, and scored a back-to-school deal and student discount on a Simmons mattress with lumbar support. By mixing and matching the brand name mattress with a generic box spring, I saved around $75. The total cost came out to $676.87 CAD ($545.90 USD).
Comfortable Seating
I opted for an Ikea POANG chair instead of a couch. Not only is it easier to move, but it’s also cat-friendly – my feline friends can be rough on furniture! I’ve had experience with this chair before, and I love its comfortable design. Initially, I paid full price, but I was able to get a $25 refund when the price dropped a week later.
Functional Furniture
To complement my POANG chair, I picked up an Ikea LACK table for a steal – $11.39 CAD ($9.19 USD) after tax. This versatile table serves as a coffee table, dining table, and even a footstool. I also invested in an Ikea KULLEN 3-Drawer Chest for $67.79 CAD ($54.67 USD) after tax. This compact dresser provides ample storage and doubles as a bedside table.
A Touch of Free
During move-out season in my college town, I stumbled upon a discarded body-length mirror in perfect condition. After a good cleaning, it’s now a valuable addition to my apartment, allowing me to practice barre exercises at home.
Adding Some Greenery
Lastly, I treated myself to a low-maintenance Aloe plant and a lucky bamboo from Ikea for a total of $4 CAD ($3.23 USD). These plants bring a touch of life to my apartment without breaking the bank.
So far, I’ve spent $843.67 CAD ($680.42 USD) on furnishing my new home. While there are still a few items on my wishlist, I’m thrilled with my progress and excited to make this space truly mine.
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