When shoes, backpacks, and school supplies end up all over a small apartment, such space can get cramped. If you are furnishing your first rental apartment with a limited budget, you can begin organizing one messy corner instead of seeking racks for every single area of your home.
BrightNest is a planning tool for students to make cost-effective alterations to their homes. At BrightNest, we begin with the items you already possess, the area you can use, and the foremost demand you have.
Measure before you buy
Pick a location that’s the source of the most annoyance, for instance, your entryway or bathroom where you share with other people. Get the height, width
and depth measurements of that area and consider how much space a door takes in order to open.
Then, make a list of all the stuff you have. Divide your belongings into everyday items and seldomly used ones. Before heading to a shop, see what boxes or containers you already have.
Always have your measurements at hand. If you find something that could be a solution to your problem, therefore, check its size.
Compare three no-drill storage options
Over-the-door organizers: These can be used for shoes or small items, but ensure that the organizer is compatible with your door in terms of dimension or bracket type. Before purchasing, think of what exactly you want to store in the organizer’s compartments.
Standalone storage: Consider a small cart or low storage unit for a free corner in the room. Make sure you read the assembly and securing requirements of the piece before buying so that it is not necessary to attach the unit to the wall. In any case, do not buy a unit that may block the way.
Adhesive hooks: Good for lightweight items hanging on compatible surfaces, adhesive hooks are a fantastic solution. However, be aware of the installation and removal instructio
ns of the product taking into consideration the specific conditions of your rental apartment.
Plan a practical entryway setup
Budget your expenses prior to shopping. Compute the total expenses, including supporting accessories, and get only what will help you deal with your problem. Items with low price may not be so beneficial if they don’t fit nicely or you need to buy more stuff.
Experiment with your setup for a week before purchasing more. Are the items easy to find? Is the floor free of clutter? Is there enough space for your roommate? Fix your setup before you spend more money.
Make a shopping list that earns its space
Before you start browsing, take note of your measurements and budget. For every item you plan to purchase, you should ask yourself three questions: What is it used for? Where do I put it? Do I already have something that can do the same job?
A storage basket can probably store some scarves and you will have not spent any money. An unused container can also organize small things in a drawer, as less is also easier to move at the end of the rental.
BrightNest’s goal is to assist students and people renting their first apartments in making practical changes with the help of limited money. The concept of living space is that it provides you with what you need for your routine. Start with your possessions, add things carefully and adjust your setup when necessary.
Start with one small change
Ready to make your space work better? Start your first no-drill storage project today: measure one cluttered area, set your budget and make a short shopping list. Small Budget. Your Space.