How to Create a Studio in Your Apartment

Posted on January 4, 2013 by jpalmer

With a little hard work and creativity, you can create an art or music studio in your apartment.

We all need a place where we can create a side business or work on a hobby, especially if that side job or hobby is rather complex. But with a little hard work and ingenuity, you can easily turn a bedroom in your apartment into a studio for your music, art or anything else. Here’s how.

Music or Recording Studio

Soundproof your space. Soundproofing is very important. Fasten egg crate foam to the walls, ceiling and windows using staples or drywall screws. This will help control echoes and keep sounds from coming in or getting out. Your goals are to both cut out street noise and not irritate your neighbors.

Noise Cancellation. Quiet your new studio by placing computers and other equipment in a closet or the next room if possible. This cuts out background noise from PC fans.

Mount speakers and other such equipment on the walls, and wrap the metal legs on chairs, tables or other equipment in Bubble Wrap to remove audio echoes.

If possible, build a separate booth for recording equipment or where you will do your actual instrumental or vocal recording. This will allow for additional soundproofing and noise control.

Leverage Technology. These days, you don’t necessarily need big, expensive mixing boards and other complex equipment. You can achieve all the same effects digitally on a PC, laptop or tablet using often free software and a $100 microphone.

Art Studio

Check Zoning Laws. Your state may require you to purchase a building permit in order to build an art studio, especially if you intend to sell your work out of your home.

Check Your Floor Surface. You’ll want a floor that’s easy to clean and can preferably take a beating. Carpet gets gobs of paint and collects paint or pottery dust, so that’s out. If the space you want to use as an art studio has inadequate flooring, consider ripping it up and redoing it.

Lighting. Strong, natural light is the best to work under, especially if you’re a painter. Make sure your chosen room has a north-facing window. If not, install some lighting that can simulate natural light.

Ventilation. Painting, drawing and pottery can throw up a lot of fumes and dust. You’ll need a safe way to filter this out of your workspace. Install a ventilation fan in the ceiling or place a box fan in an open window.

With just a few modifications, you can turn a spare bedroom into an awesome music or art studio so you can explore your passion from the comfort of your own apartment.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/dantok

How to Remove Old Wallpaper

Posted on November 15, 2012 by jpalmer

By following a few simple steps, removing old wallpaper can be done without too much fuss.

Redecorating an older home or apartment can be a difficult task, especially if the previous owner covered every square inch with wallpaper. Removing all that old, ugly wallpaper is no easy task, but the tips below should help you get it done with a minimum of fuss and bother.

Prepare the area

Cover the floor with drop cloths, as well as everything you can’t move. Wallpaper glue gets everywhere, and is hard to remove from other surfaces.

Get the wallpaper wet

Water alone won’t cut it, but you don’t have to use a harsh chemical wallpaper remover either. Liquid fabric softener, mixed half-and-half with water, works just as well. Put this mixture in a spray bottle and spray the wall. Make sure you only spray the area that you think you can remove in 15 minutes, otherwise you risk the paper drying. After letting it set for a few minutes, you should be able to remove the wallpaper fairly easily.

Remove the wallpaper

Using a metal drywall or putty knife, start scraping off the old wallpaper.

Clean the walls

You’ll be left with little bits of wallpaper glue dotting your walls. A Scotch-Brite pad dipped in your stripping mixture will take care of these.

For wallpaper that is about 20 to 30 years old, you might need to use a different tactic. Most wallpaper from this era is usually vinyl over paper backing. This vinyl prevents your stripping solution from soaking through the paper to get at the glue holding it to the wall. For this type of wallpaper, you’ll need to slide your putty knife under it near a seam and peel off as much of this vinyl as you can, then use hot water and your fabric softener to soak the paper.

It takes work, but once the old wallpaper is removed, you’ll be able to put a new coat of paint and a fresh face on your new living space.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Allkindza

Introduction to Contemporary Décor

Posted on October 12, 2012 by tpham

When asked to define contemporary décor, you may be confused with modern décor. Though the terms are closely related, there are distinct differences in the two design styles. Contemporary décor revolves more around a monochromatic, minimalistic and neutral color scheme. The design style features asymmetrical design, rounded forms and graphical patterns. Contemporary design features more of what’s going on in present day, and with that comes a comfortable and inviting space. Read on for pointers to turn your space into a comfortable contemporary retreat.

Colors
The dominant color palette in contemporary design includes neutrals, black and white. It doesn’t necessarily have to be boring or bland. Keep the main things neutral (walls and large furniture), but accent the room with bright and bold colors in the form of accent chairs, pillows and accessories. However, you can mix it up. If you decide to paint a wall a bold color, then use neutral décor around your space.

Furnishings
In contemporary design, furniture should have smooth, clean, geometric shapes. Large pieces are often neutral, white or black in color. Your furniture should be simple; less is more. Bare space is just as important as furniture pieces. Your couch and chairs should be uncluttered and without decoration. Exposed chair legs are a key detail in contemporary design, and avoid having bed skirts, trim, fringe or tassels on furniture. If possible, use simple, armless furniture to allow the views to command the room.

Fabrics
When choosing fabric, choose textured natural fibers, such as wool, cotton, linen, silk and jute. This creates a natural look, as well as a textural appeal. Soft fabrics on the sofa will add a sense of comfort, and using shades of beige and cream create a calming environment. Avoid using colorful and “busy” prints, as this takes away from the simplicity of contemporary design.

Finishes
For cabinets, countertops and furniture pieces, choose pieces that have a sleek wood finish. This creates a warm and comfortable room, and surprisingly enough, the sleek wood adds softness to contemporary spaces. Additionally, keep finishes natural, as the focus in contemporary design is on comfort.

Accessories
Incorporating aspects of nature into your design fits in with contemporary style. Accessories inspired by nature are encouraged. One way to do this is to add green foliage, which adds interest and color, and it also brightens up a neutral color palette. Dress up your furniture with throw pillows, using colors that accent the other furniture and accessories in your room. To create a focal point in the room, hang an oversized abstract painting on one wall. Another way to create a focal point is to arrange your furniture in a way that encourages conversation. Revolve the arrangement around an accessory that creates drama, such as a reclaimed wood coffee table.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/evirgen

How to Clean Your Apartment Efficiently and Quickly

Posted on October 10, 2012 by tpham

To quickly clean your apartment, arm yourself with an all-purpose, multi-surface cleaning spray and a sponge.

Sometimes, cleaning your house seems like it takes all day.. However, a few basic tips and tricks can not only save you time but also create a spotless living space. Whether you have unexpected guests coming, a get together just ended or you just need to create a more organized and tidy space, read on for our tips and shortcuts to speed clean your apartment.

Supplies
First, you’ll need cleaning supplies, but just because you’re cleaning different surfaces in various rooms doesn’t mean you need a different cleaning product for each room. Grab an all-purpose, multi-surface cleaning spray, glass cleaner, paper towels, a sponge, a garbage bag, a duster, a vacuum and a Swiffer.

Living Room
If items in this space belong in different rooms, place them in a container. This will save you time from running between rooms to place items. Next, focus on the couch. Brush off the cushions of pet hair, food crumbs and dust. Check behind the cushions for any items, and then replace the cushions and fluff the pillows. Next, dust the coffee table, and then neatly stack the items on the table. Toss old magazines, and neatly arrange up-to-date magazines, as well as books. Finally, run a vacuum through the space. Remember, this is for a quick clean. Save moving the furniture for when you have more time.

Bedroom
Gather all your dirty clothes and place in a hamper. Worry about sorting later when you do the laundry. If you have clean clothes that aren’t put away, go ahead and rehang or refold the items and put the items away. Place all trash, including old magazines, papers, etc. in a trashcan. Sort through your closet later when you have more time. Next, make the bed. The room will just look cleaner with this simple step. Straighten surfaces, including your nightstand, desk and shelves. You don’t have time to sort through everything, but if you have items that don’t seem to belong, place them in a bin to go through later. Similar to the living room, run a vacuum through the space.

Bathroom
Place dirty clothing and used towels in a hamper. Next, place all trash in the trashcan. Then wipe down the counters, sink and tub using the disinfectant cleaning spray. For the toilet, use a toilet brush and cleaner. Scrub the inside of the toilet. Use the cleaning spray for the outside of the toilet. Next, use a glass cleaner to wipe down the mirror. Return items to where they belong. Again, sort through your items at a later date when you have more time. For now, make sure your bathroom is presentable to guests. Then sweep the floor.

Kitchen
First, place items belonging in other rooms in a container to go through later. Next, clear your countertops and cupboards of trash. For dirty dishes, wash by hand or load the dishwasher. If the plates have stuck-on residue, fill the sink with warm, soapy water and allow the plates to soak for a few minutes while completing your other kitchen chores. Once the dishes are taken care of, wipe down your sink, countertops and appliances. Sweep or mop the floor. To finish, take out the trash.

A Guide to Creating a Focal Point in Your Space

Posted on October 2, 2012 by tpham

Whether you’re using a picture window or a fireplace as your focal point, arrange your furniture to frame the area.

.A focal point in your apartment serves as a talking point for your guests, as well as a place for your eyes to focus on. The focal point sets the tone of the room; it defines the room’s ambiance, and it serves as a welcome to those who enter. But how do you create focal points? A large art piece, an accent wall or a signature piece of furniture are elements you can use to start building your focal point. Read on for more suggestions.

Fireplace
If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace included in your living space, you can build off that. Hang a large piece of art above the mantel. You can also emphasize the fireplace with a large decorative mirror. If you don’t want to hang it, prop it on the mantelpiece to enhance the fireplace. Keep the accessories simple. Some ideas are three vases or candles of varied sizes grouped together.

For those without fireplaces and an empty wall, an easy solution is to purchase a vinyl fireplace wall decal. For the mantelpiece, hang a shelf at the top of the decal, and from there, add a large piece of art and accessories to the mantel.

Built-In Shelves
Some apartments come with a wall of built-ins that you can accessorize with your favorite objects, picture frames, books, etc. This convenient addition to your apartment will create an easy focal point for your space. Build off your current décor style and add a variety of objects of different shapes and sizes to the shelves but remember to keep it simple and leave space around your accessories. You can also make your built-in shelves stand out by painting the walls behind them a contrasting color. You can also cover the wall with wallpaper or fabric to add interest.

Sofa
Sometimes an easy solution is to reposition your sofa. Put it against the longest wall in your apartment and then hang a large piece of wall art over it. Find a piece of art that matches your décor style and personality, but make sure it also creates a statement to catch the attention of your guest.

Color
If allowed in your lease, pick a wall and paint it a different color from the other three walls in your space. Use color to focus attention on that particular area of the room. If painting is not an option, cover three large canvases with a fabric that will match your décor style but also stands out. Wrap the canvas with the fabric then staple it to the back of the canvas.

Window
Some renters are lucky and have a picture window in their apartment’s living area. If you’re one of these lucky renters, highlight the picture window to create a focal point. Frame the window and the view by hanging eye-catching curtains in a simple but beautiful fabric. Center the main seating area in front of the window. For a complete look, place an area rug beneath your furniture arrangement.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/tulcarion

Introduction to Tropical Decor

Posted on October 1, 2012 by mprice

Natural, organic touches like neutral walls and palm trees characterize tropical decor.

Not to be confused with coastal décor, which is inspired by the coastlines of northern California and the Eastern Seaboard, and Mediterranean décor, which emphasizes style found in Spain, southern France, Greece and Italy, tropical décor style conjures up images of warm trade winds, sand, sea and sun of the warmer climates near the equator, from the Caribbean to the South Pacific. So no matter what season it is, you can recreate this breezy, warm style at home in your apartment by following a few simple tips.

Neutrals and Sun-Drenched Colors

Regarding color schemes, there are a few ways you can go. Consider building a foundation with neutral tones for your walls like ivory, beige, camel, tan, deep brown, soft gold and pale yellow to make brighter colors really stand out and seem vibrant. Traditional tropical colors are often bold and beautiful, channeling the elements of the natural world. Deep turquoise blues and sea greens recall the ocean and sky, while bright pinks, corals, purples, yellows and oranges are inspired by native flowers, birds and tropical sunsets. Use these colors sparingly to create contrasting focal points.

Comfort and Style

Tropical décor style is all about casual comfort and relaxation, so your furniture should reflect that sentiment. Large, overstuffed sofas and chairs are a must, with decorative pillows, slipcovers and cushions that recall tropical scenes like sky and sea. If you choose to upholster, do so in soft, lush fabrics like cotton, linen or silk, or incorporate these fabrics into window treatments to enhance the breezy, comfortable atmosphere.

Textural Elements

Texture and wood play a big part in tropical décor style, and they’re easy to incorporate into the design of your apartment. Choose bamboo wood blinds or teak elements to amp up the tropical vibe. Use area rugs made from natural materials like sea grass or sisal to add a tropical touch. If you can’t wallpaper your entire apartment, purchase a small piece of grass cloth wallpaper, cut it down to the size of a picture frame and hang it on your wall for a textural contrast.

Natural Touches

Adding the right accessories is the key to making your apartment feel like a warm tropical paradise. The tropics are filled with lush plants like palms, banana plants and rubber trees, so choose one (planted in a terracotta, wicker or bamboo pot) to place on a side table or give a little life to an otherwise dark corner. The same goes for colorful, tropical flowers like orchids or hibiscus. Hang framed photographs or paintings of tropical scenes, or create a tablescape with seashells and sea glass.

The main thing to remember when decorating in this style is to incorporate tropical elements in a natural way rather than completely replicating the tropics. A little goes a long way, so use a light touch and let your creativity shine through.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/DougBennett

Decorate Your Bedroom Like a Pro

Posted on September 25, 2012 by ag-admin

Let’s face it – you spend half of your life sleeping, so the bedroom really is one of the most important spaces in your apartment. Creating a comfortable atmosphere in your bedroom is key, but it’s also an opportunity to make unique, highly personal style choices. If you don’t have a lot of space in your room and aren’t sure if you can fit in a massive headboard for your bed, never fear – you can still achieve maximum visual impact (without spending the $$$ associated with traditional headboards). Style and space can both be yours with these unique headboard ideas.

Tip 1 – Get crafty with a stenciled canvas or folding screen. Overstock.com has DIY folding screens that are quite inexpensive (in the $100 range). Paint a folding screen instead of a wall to go bold and bring color into the space with zero commitment (no need to give up your renter’s deposit!). Get creative with your own design, or create a bold, graphic pattern by using a pre-cut stencil. The result is a perfectly unique headboard that can move when you do. Or, pick up an inexpensive painter’s canvas from Michael’s and create your own instant artwork to hang over your bed in place of a headboard. All you’ll need is a yard of your favorite fabric and a staple gun. Both of these décor options are instantaneous and create a huge impact.

Tip 2 – Play with texture and pattern with framed wallpaper. I am a wallpaper fanatic, so I especially love this tip. If you are a commitment-phobe, you can apply wallpaper to a large-scale painter’s canvas, or just frame it like art. No muss, no fuss, and none of the headache of applying wallpaper throughout the entire room. You can even create large panels of wallpaper by using tall sheets of Masonite (roughly 8-by-4 foot sheets) as your base. This is also a great opportunity to splurge, without breaking the bank. Buy that gorgeous (but really expensive) wallpaper you love, because you only need one roll with this method! No huge financial investment here, meaning you’ll get to satisfy your champagne taste on a beer budget!

Tip 3 – Add DIY excitement with a reclaimed mantle. Mix up the purpose of items in a space to make décor exciting. An upcycled or recycled piece like a mantle has unexpected character when used as a headboard- it will bring your space to life and keep your décor interesting. You’ll also have the added benefit of reducing your footprint by using a recycled piece. You can find great, gently used pieces at your local thrift shops, antiques store or flea markets. Go one step further and line the mantle with tea lights or hang photos above to create depth and add layers of interest.

Steps to Making a DIY Bird’s Nest Lampshade

Posted on September 11, 2012 by ag-admin

One of the easiest ways to inject a little personality into your space is to mix up the styles. Modern meets organic when you combine an urban, silver arc lamp base with a funky, rustic DIY bird’s nest lampshade. Get started on this DIY decor project with these simple steps:

Supplies: (1) Drum-shaped lampshade, (1) roll of paper raffia, scissors, (1) lamp base or pendant light

Step 1: Use the point of your scissors to poke a small hole along the top seam of the lampshade. Cut a one-yard length of raffia. Thread one end of the raffia through the hole and tie a knot to keep the raffia in place.

Step 2: Begin wrapping the raffia around the lampshade. To achieve a bird’s nest look, it’s important to be random in your wrapping – overlapping, weaving over and under, and leaving slack to achieve a “messy” appearance. When you reach the end of your first piece of raffia, poke another small hole in the lampshade (preferably at the top or bottom seam), thread raffia through, and tie a knot to secure.

Step 3: Continue securing with small knots, then wrapping and weaving raffia until you achieve your desired look. Note: Avoid using glue, as it may show up as a dark spot when the lampshade is lit.

Step 4: Attach to the lamp base or pendant light as you would a typical lampshade.

This article was written by TV host and design expert Kim Myles, who partnered with Apartment Guide for the 2012 “Your Picks. Your Place.” sweepstakes. Kim Myles won the HGTV reality series “Design Star 2” and hosts HGTV’s “Myles of Style.”

Essential Items For Your College Apartment

Posted on July 31, 2012 by tpham

Having an apartment that is comfortable is important when you’re a college student. It’s a place to get the rest you need, as well a nutritious meal to boost brain power. And don’t forget, it’s a place to get cleaned up for your presentation, as well as for the coeds. But what exactly do you need? Keep it simple – which will prevent you from overspending – and be sure to get these essential items for your new place.

<a href="http://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/essential-items-for-your-college-apartment"><img title="Discover essential items for your college apartment" src="http://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2012/05/college-apartment-tips-infographic.png" alt="Necessary and essential items for a college apartment" width="600" height="2860" /></a><br /> <a href="http://www.apartmentguide.com/college/">Apartment Guide – Find Off Campus Housing for Rent</a>

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Six Fun and Funky Throw Pillows

Posted on May 2, 2012 by mprice

There’s nothing better than adding a touch of color, pattern or excitement to an otherwise dull couch, loveseat or chair with a funky throw pillow.

There’s nothing better than adding a touch of color, pattern or excitement to an otherwise dull couch, loveseat or chair in your apartment. Even if you’re still in love with your seating options, it may be lacking that certain something that once attracted you to it.

The good news is that you don’t have to the break the bank to find great throw pillows that can really liven up your space. Many online retailers often offer great decorative pieces at deep discounts, so searching through websites running sales can really pay off. If you prefer to touch and feel before purchasing, head to a local thrift store or an antique shop and browse the selection. Larger discount home goods stores can also be a great source of decorative elements at rock bottom prices.

So if you’re looking to change up your living space but don’t have a lot of money to do so or don’t have the time to invest in major renovations, you can make significant changes by adding in fun, colorful decorative elements. Most of these pillows are under $40, and all of them are under $100, so you don’t have to worry about having deep pockets to explore your sense of style. Check out these fun and funky throw pillows and rekindle that sense of excitement in your decorating.

This super colorful and modern decorative pillow from Target will spruce up your living room with a bright pop of yellow and deep grey. Even if your living room isn’t completely modern, this pillow will fit in perfectly.

Price: $49.99

To really brighten things up, pick up the Sunset Floral Embroidered Pillow from Pier 1 imports. This maroon-backed, zipper-closure pillow is covered in colorful raised rosettes made from felt, embroidery and beadwork.

Price: $19.88

For a beach-themed living room, or if you’re really in need of a vacation, pick up the Coral Reef Pillow Cover from West Elm, depicting a colorful rainbow reef screen printed by hand.

Price: $39.00

Everybody loves anything bird-related, and owls are the new hot decorating fad, so make sure the cute and hilariously-named Put a Wing on It Pillow is part of your home décor. Screen printed on rust-colored cotton with hand-drawn details, this bright pillow is a great addition to any room.

Price: $34.99

If you’re a design nerd, chances are you’ve heard of Marimekko before. This lively, pop art-themed pillow is inspired by the classic Beatles song “Strawberry Fields Forever” and brings to mind the same unique animation style used in the film Yellow Submarine.

Price: $20.50

If you want to stick to a more monochromatic color scheme, check out this unique throw pillow from CB2 that depicts an eerie, photo realistic landscape. It reverses to a solid black velvet and is super funky, even though it’s black and white.

Price: $19.95

Photo credit: iStockphoto/olaser

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