The Search is On! Part 2

You’ve spent a fair share of time checking out a number of apartments and have a pretty good idea of what you’re looking for. Good for you! But have you considered these things? Read on …

Ambiance (also spelled ambience)

The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines ambiance as, “a feeling or mood associated with a particular place, person or thing.” Another easy way of putting it is ambiance is “atmosphere.” This website is called Anika’s Apartment Ambiance after all so let’s talk atmosphere! Ask yourself how the apartment in question makes you feel as you walk into it. Big? Small? Open? Closed? Bright? Dark? Concentrate. As you walk around and look around what feeling do you get from the place? Does it have personality? Does it give off good vibes? Yes, you read me correctly! It’s all about personality! Apartments give off positive and negative feelings to their potential residents. Keep this in mind as you take in the layout of the apartment, the amount of windows, the flooring, and closet space. If you feel good upon an initial visit chances are you will feel even better living there. It works in reverse if you feel bad about a place.

Lighting

Go apartment hunting on a sunny day if possible. Observe how bright each room looks with the sun shining in, particularly the living room and kitchen. I love sunny kitchens personally; they are so cheery and welcoming! Light is very important when it comes to searching for the perfect place. Lack of sunlight presents a problem for many people during the winter months (SAD- seasonal affective disorder). Ask yourself- does the apartment in question have a lot of overhead lights and/or outlets to plug in lamps?

Electrical Outlets

While we’re on the topic of plugs, how many electrical outlets does the apartment have? Do a mental inventory of everything you own that requires electricity. Does this place satisfy your “electric” needs? If not, move on.

Storage Area

How much is there? Is there a storage area located in the apartment, directly adjacent to it or somewhere else in the building, the basement perhaps? Think ahead to how much storage space you require before signing on the dotted line. If you’re a pack rat a shoebox size apartment might not be for you.

Balcony/ Deck

Do you need one? A lot of apartments that have these charge more for the privilege. I’ll admit they are a nice extra- nothing like stepping out on a balcony with a cup of tea first thing in the morning, or sitting out with friends on a summer night but they can be problematic. Think carefully about this one. It’s nice but … there’s always that but.

Color

Glance down upon entry. Can you live with the color of the carpet? Most apartments have the same color throughout. That also goes for the paint on the walls. Most buildings don’t allow tenants to make changes. So if you want the place you have to live (or learn to live) with the colors. Can you? The colors are tied in with the personality of the apartment. Listen to your senses closely and feel your way! 

~Anika Logan

Anika Logan has lived in her share of apartments over the years and has plenty of decorating ideas, not to mention pearls of wisdom to pass on to you. If you have an apartment question/dilemma, look no further-Anika will provide the answers!