<h2 class="p1">Declutter First</h2>
<p class="p1">As you <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/apartment-organization-ideas"><span class="s1">organize your space</span></a>, focus on the items you <i>don’t</i> need. Evaluate whether your possessions serve a purpose or hold a memory. If a knick-knack doesn’t fall into either category, it may be time to get rid of it.</p>
<p class="p1">Here are some tips to get you started:</p>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">Focus on one room or area at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed.</li>
<li class="li1">Create keep, donate/sell and discard piles.</li>
<li class="li1">Discard items that are worn out or broken.</li>
<li class="li1">Ask yourself, “Have I used this in the last six months?”</li>
<li class="li1">Digitize paper clutter and consolidate files.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="p1">Choose a Neutral Color Palette</h2>
<p class="p1">An assault of vibrant colors on your walls doesn’t exactly scream soothing. That’s why it’s important to incorporate neutral colors if you’re aiming for a minimalist aesthetic. Soft tones like gray, beige, white, brown and taupe create a blank canvas upon which you can build your home design.</p>
<p class="p1">Use varying shades of a single color to add depth and dimension to different elements of your apartment. Painting an accent wall in a slate blue or sage green is an effective way to bring subtle variety into a monochromatic scheme. If you want to add color, opt for muted tones in small areas or black to add stark contrast.</p>
<h2 class="p1">Select Functional, Space-Saving Furniture</h2>
<p class="p1">Ornate embellishments, hardware and finishes take over a space, so look for furniture with clean lines, simple fabrics and neutral colors. Optimize the square footage in your apartment with simplistic, functional furniture that serves multiple purposes. That way, you can keep your home stylish <i>and </i>clutter-free.</p>
<p class="p1">Add any of the following items to simplify your décor:</p>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">Storage ottomans</li>
<li class="li1">Foldable and nesting tables</li>
<li class="li1">Floating and corner shelves</li>
<li class="li1">Bookshelves</li>
<li class="li1">Blanket racks and ladders</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="p1">Maximize Storage</h2>
<p class="p1">Minimalism is about simplicity and functionality, which is why storage is crucial. Maintain your aesthetic by finding a place for your possessions and storing unnecessary items out of sight.</p>
<p class="p1">Here are some ideas:</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Under-bed storage:</b> Keep clothes, shoes and seasonal items <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/bedroom-decor-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them"><span class="s1">stored under your bed in rolling drawers or bins</span></a>. Some bed platforms even have built-in drawers and shelves to help you organize your belongings.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Hidden compartments:</b> There are a variety of coffee tables, ottomans and benches that come with room to stow items. That frees up surfaces and eliminates visual clutter.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Vertical storage:</b> Skinny shelves, over-door organizers and hooks allow you to elevate your knick-knacks, clear the floor and create the illusion of height.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Drawer dividers and organizers:</b> Keep your dresser, kitchen and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/apartment-bathroom-organization-and-storage-tips"><span class="s1">bathroom drawers neat</span></a> with dividers and bins. Doing so allows you to optimize those spaces so you can keep unnecessary items out of sight.</p>
<h2 class="p1">Incorporate Minimalist Décor</h2>
<p class="p1">Minimalism doesn’t mean boring. Add warmth and personality to your home by incorporating plants, textured fabrics and strategic lighting elements.</p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1"><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/want-to-improve-your-health-get-growing">Adding natural greenery</a></span> is an effective way to create aesthetic interest without collecting “stuff.” Include plants of different sizes and shapes for more variety. Fake plants have the same effect and are easy to clean and adjust.</p>
<p class="p1">Look for pillows, rugs, lampshades and blankets in the same color but with different textures such as linen, cotton, silk and fur. That prevents your furniture and décor from becoming too bold or overwhelming. Enjoy the subtlety of a neutral color scheme while embracing the dynamism of different materials.</p>
<p class="p1">Lighting influences the vibe of your apartment. Stick with sheer window treatments and move furniture away from windows to avoid blocking natural light. Layer artificial lighting by including a variety of simple standing, table and mounted lamps. You can also use recessed lighting or spotlights to highlight negative space between decorations.</p>
<h2 class="p1">Embrace Simplicity in Apartment Living</h2>
<p class="p1">Create a serene environment that’s all your own at Ardent Communities. We offer a variety of apartments in and around Columbus, Ohio, that feature neutral colors and aesthetics, so you can customize them to your liking. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments"><span class="s1">View our locations</span></a> and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us"><span class="s1">contact us</span></a> to schedule a tour.</p>


An apartment with a living room connected to the kitchen with a brown aesthetic.

Minimalist Apartment Design Ideas for Your Living Space

<h2>Assess Your Bathroom Space and Needs</h2>
<p>Before you start organizing your bathroom, you’ll need to take stock of the available space so you can optimize it accordingly. Measure the dimensions of your floor, walls, cabinets and drawers to determine how much room you have to install hooks, shelves and other organizers. Be careful when measuring so you don’t waste money buying containers that don’t fit. You may also need to take stock and throw away outdated products or donate unused items to avoid wasting precious room.</p>
<h2>Use Smart Storage Solutions for Tight Quarters</h2>
<p>Whether you have a large bathroom or more limited accommodations, make the most of vertical spaces, corners and multifunctional furniture. Get creative and use different items to design aesthetically pleasing bathroom storage.</p>
<p>Here are some ideas:</p>
<ul>
<li><b></b><strong><b>Narrow shelves: </b></strong>Whether it’s a tall standing piece or a wall-mounted alternative, narrow shelves allow you to line up bottles, jars and supplies without taking up too much room.</li>
<li><b></b><strong><b>Over-the-door organizers: </b></strong>Hang a rack or basket over your bathroom door to hold products, linens and styling tools.</li>
<li><b></b><strong><b>Over-toilet cabinets: </b></strong>If there’s nothing above your toilet, place a standing or mounted cabinet above it for storage.</li>
<li><b></b><strong><b>Baskets: </b></strong>You can place a basket on top of your toilet’s water tank to hold extra toilet paper, towels and other bathroom necessities without taking up extra counter space.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Optimize Cabinets, Drawers and Countertops</h2>
<p><strong><b>Drawers:</b></strong> Drawer dividers keep things from getting cluttered, so you don’t have to rummage to find what you need. If you store your towels and washcloths in a drawer, roll them instead of folding them to save space.</p>
<p><strong><b>Cabinets:</b></strong> The area under your sink is another good spot to stow cleaning supplies and linens, so install small drawer sets, containers or baskets to hold them. Use a Lazy Susan to make it easy to rotate through your products and find what you need. You can also try stackable containers in your cabinets to maximize vertical square footage.</p>
<p><strong><b>Countertops:</b></strong> Tiered organizers allow you to make the most of limited counter space. Keep frequently used items like skincare and dental products on your counter so they’re within easy reach. Caddies are also effective for managing multiple bottles, containers and jars.</p>
<h2>Maintain a Clean and Functional Bathroom</h2>
<p>If you organize your bathroom, don’t let your work go to waste by letting it get cluttered. Create a bathroom <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/tips-for-deep-cleaning-your-apartment"><u>cleaning schedule</u></a> that includes restocking necessary supplies and getting rid of unused, empty or old products. Return things to their proper place so you’re not searching for them or knocking them over in places they don’t belong. House your bathing necessities in your shower, keep toilet paper in a basket nearby and hand towels within reach.</p>
<h2>Create a Relaxing, Clutter-Free Space</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/how-to-declutter-your-apartment"><u>Decluttering</u></a> can put your mind at ease and create a sense of peace, especially in a small area like your bathroom. Making room on your shelves and countertops creates space for <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/apartment-decorating-ideas-on-a-budget"><u>décor, personal items and candles</u></a>, so you can turn your bathroom into your very own spa.</p>
<h2>Spacious Apartments in Columbus, Ohio</h2>
<p>Ardent Communities has a variety of <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments"><u>apartments in and around Columbus, Ohio</u></a>, with spacious bathrooms. Whether you’re living solo or with a roommate (or two), we can provide you with plenty of living space to suit your needs. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us"><u>Contact us</u></a> to schedule a tour.</p>


Apartment Bathroom Organization and Storage Tips

<h1>How to Create a Home Office in an Apartment</h1>
<p>Whether you need a space to work or study remotely, having a home office in your apartment can help you stay focused. Working from home allows flexible scheduling and efficiency, but it’s important to differentiate your office and personal areas to set the stage for success and get in the right mindset for a productive workday.</p>
<h2>Evaluate Your Layout and Space Needs</h2>
<p>From studios to multi-bedrooms, there are ways to configure an at-home office in any apartment layout. Avoid high-traffic areas as they may prove too cluttered or distracting. Finding the right spot is especially important if you <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/roommate-etiquette-tips-for-apartment-living">live with a roommate</a> and need privacy or quiet.</p>
<p>If you don’t have a spare room, you’ll need to carve out a spot where you can work. Evaluate nooks, alcoves and even closets to determine if they’re viable locations for your desk and supplies. Look for a place that’s close to outlets to accommodate electronics like computer monitors, printers and scanners.</p>
<h2>Choose the Right Furniture and Equipment</h2>
<p>It’s important to consider comfort when creating an at-home office in your apartment. You may spend long hours sitting at your workspace, so choose comfortable chairs and desks that reduce strain on your body. Poor posture may cause neck, back and shoulder pain and affect your circulation. Invest in office equipment with proper lumbar support to ease discomfort and support correct posture.</p>
<p>The following ergonomic furniture can improve your comfort on the job:</p>
<ul>
<li>Adjustable office chairs</li>
<li>Footrests</li>
<li>Standing desks</li>
<li>Monitor stands</li>
<li>Ergonomic keyboards</li>
<li>Wrist rests</li>
<li>Adjustable desk lamps</li>
</ul>
<h2>Maximize Storage and Organization</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/apartment-decorating-ideas-on-a-budget">Multi-purpose furniture</a> like ottomans and coffee tables provide storage for office supplies, cords and electronics, saving precious floor space and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/how-to-declutter-your-apartment">reducing clutter</a>. Use a nightstand, side table or filing cabinet to extend the surface of a small desk. Try a compact desk with built-in outlets or a foldable alternative to fit tight quarters.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Digitize your files and maximize vertical storage to reduce the square footage required for your home office. Install shelves above your desk or use an over-the-door rack to organize paperwork and supplies. Decluttering your desk can enhance your creativity and reduce mental stress, too.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<h2>Improve Lighting<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></h2>
<p>Seek out natural light as it helps regulate your mood, energy level and productivity. Situate your desk in front of or near a window to reduce your need for artificial light. If that’s not an option, standing and desk lamps offer a softer alternative to overhead lighting. Be mindful of the location of your light source and avoid placing it behind your head as it affects your visibility on video calls and creates a glare on your screen.</p>
<h2>Reduce Distractions</h2>
<p>Situating your at-home office near your kitchen or living room exposes you to a variety of distractions, especially if you live with a roommate or family. It’s important to find a way to separate yourself from the daily hustle and bustle so you can focus on your work.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>If you have a spare room for your office, keep all your supplies in that room so you don’t have to go looking for a pen or extra paper. A partition or screen is an effective option for defining your work area if your space is limited to one room.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p>
<p>Turn off or remove your TV from your office to eliminate visual and auditory distractions. Instead, try playing soft music or white noise to provide yourself with background audio if you don’t want to work in silence.</p>
<h2>Personalize for Productivity</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/health-and-wellness-design-ideas-for-your-apartment">Aesthetics and décor can influence your mood</a> and efficiency. If you’re allowed to paint, consider blues and greens to create a sense of calm or neutral tones for a more spacious feel. Include personal touches like artwork, prints or inspirational quotes to stay energized and inspired. Be careful not to add too much clutter, though, as wall and desktop decorations eat up space.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/want-to-improve-your-health-get-growing">Plants can enhance your physical and emotional health</a> and add a touch of freshness to your home office. Wood and natural textures offer a cozy feel to help put your mind at ease during stressful workdays.</p>
<h2>Work-From-Home Friendly Floor Plans at Ardent Communities</h2>
<p>Our multi-bedroom apartments are also excellent for at-home offices if you have a hybrid work schedule. Some of our communities have business suites and clubhouses with free Wi-Fi that also lend themselves to remote work. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments">View our locations</a> and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us">schedule a tour.</a></p>


At-home office set up with a shelf containing books next to a desk with two monitors.

Creating an At-Home Office in an Apartment

<h2>Why Roommate Etiquette Matters</h2>
<p>Well-defined expectations lay the foundation for a successful roommate relationship. They also provide a point of reference to fall back on if tension arises so you can <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/tips-for-handling-conflict-resolution-with-a-roommate"><u>resolve conflict peacefully</u></a> and respectfully.</p>
<p>Benefits of having etiquette rules include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Clear expectations for behavior, chores and personal space</li>
<li>Reduced risk of arguments</li>
<li>Improved communication</li>
<li>Accountability</li>
<li>Positive relationships</li>
</ul>
<h2>10 Roommate Etiquette Tips</h2>
<h3>#1: Don’t Use Belongings Without Permission</h3>
<p>Touching, using or taking another’s belongings is an offense you should avoid as a roommate. Asking first shows respect and helps build trust. Even if you live with someone you know well, it never hurts to consult with them about their possessions. That may include electronics, personal hygiene items and cleaning supplies.</p>
<h3>#2: Always Communicate</h3>
<p>It’s a basic principle for any quality relationship. Don’t assume that your roommate can read your mind, as that may lead to miscommunication. Preferences and routines vary, so it’s essential to share perspectives to help create a harmonious living environment. If an issue arises or something bothers you, discuss it right away instead of waiting until it becomes a bigger problem.</p>
<h3>#3: Establish a Cleaning Schedule</h3>
<p>There are various ways you can approach splitting <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/tips-for-deep-cleaning-your-apartment"><u>household chores</u></a>:</p>
<ul>
<li>Divide them evenly, designating specific duties to each person.</li>
<li>Take turns completing each chore.</li>
<li>Create a schedule or calendar to determine who is responsible for various tasks.</li>
</ul>
<p>Determine who will complete specific chores and which are considered shared responsibilities. For example, if you take out the trash at the end of the week, your roommate should vacuum at least once during the same period. Cleaning common spaces like the kitchen and bathroom can be split between roommates.</p>
<h3>#4: Clean Up After Yourself</h3>
<p>Make a habit of washing your dishes and putting items away after you’ve used them. Keep your possessions out of high-traffic areas like hallways and entryways to avoid congestion and fall risks. If you live in an apartment with a pet, clean up toys, dander, food and messes right away so your roommates don’t have to worry about odors and stains.</p>
<h3>#5: Respect Your Roommate’s Space</h3>
<p>Whether you’re an introvert or a social butterfly, personal space is essential for healthy roommate relationships. Knock before entering someone’s room even if their door is open. Establishing private spaces is important for maintaining physical and emotional boundaries, especially during conflict. Separation gives you time to unwind and approach problem-solving more effectively.</p>
<h3>#6: Don’t Eat Your Roommate’s Food</h3>
<p>Your roommate may have diet or budget restrictions. Taking their food without asking can spell disaster and result in disagreements. Determine whether you’ll purchase food separately or share items. Ask before using their groceries and replace anything you use or take.</p>
<h3>#7: Don’t Monopolize the Bathroom</h3>
<p>Coordinating bathroom routines between multiple people might be tricky but it can save you and your roommates time and frustration. Discuss bathing habits and create a shower schedule to streamline bathroom traffic. You may need to keep tasks like drying your hair or applying makeup to your room so others have access.</p>
<h3>#8: Plan Bill Payments</h3>
<p>Consider the following <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/questions-to-ask-potential-roommates-for-apartment-living"><u>questions for your roommate</u></a>:</p>
<ul>
<li>Who’s responsible for making rent and utility payments?</li>
<li>How will you split the expenses?</li>
<li>What kind of payment system is in place?</li>
</ul>
<p>Talking about the answers will reduce the risk of confusion and potential late fees. Agree on a specific date to submit payments or reimbursements if one person is covering the cost. That establishes accountability in case someone is late or forgets to pay.</p>
<h3>#9: Respect Shared Spaces</h3>
<p>Monopolizing a shared space with your belongings or presence is unfair to your roomies. That includes your kitchen, bathroom, living room, patio or balcony, laundry room, dining area and hallways. Be mindful of how you use them so you and your roommates can enjoy your living areas equally.</p>
<h3>#10: Set Rules for Guests</h3>
<p>Make sure everyone is on the same page about <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/how-to-host-a-dinner-party-in-a-small-apartment"><u>hosting family, friends and significant others in your apartment</u></a>. Define guidelines for the number of guests, frequency of visits and how long they can stay. Privacy, sleeping habits and work schedules may require you or your roommate to be flexible when it comes to having other people at your apartment. Give your roomie notice before inviting someone over and keep noise to a reasonable level.</p>
<h2>Two- and Three-Bedroom Apartments in Columbus, Ohio</h2>
<p>Looking for an apartment for you and a few roommates? Ardent Communities offers multi-bedroom apartments in high-quality living communities full of onsite amenities. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments"><u>View our locations</u></a> and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us"><u>contact us</u></a> to schedule a tour.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>


Roommate Etiquette Tips for Apartment Living

<h2>Assess Your Space and Pet’s Needs</h2>
<p>Review your apartment layout to identify high-traffic areas and keep pet stuff out of the way. Tripping and knocking over pet supplies and cleaning up messes can be frustrating. Create zones based on your pet’s needs when deciding where to put their food, toys and accessories.<br />
For example:</p>
<ul>
<li>Keep leashes, harnesses and poop bags by your front door.</li>
<li>Store grooming and bathing necessities in a bathroom closet or cabinet.</li>
<li>Place food, bowls and dishes in your kitchen or pantry.</li>
</ul>
<p>Consider where your pet hangs out and organize their belongings around those spots. If they like curling up in a corner of your living room, keep their bed and favorite toys in a basket nearby so they can reach them.</p>
<h2>Try Smart Storage Solutions</h2>
<p>Storing pet supplies in your apartment doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. Use multi-purpose furniture like ottomans and storage benches to keep your animal’s items neatly tucked away. A trunk could double as a coffee table, allowing you to keep your dog or cat’s toys out of sight.</p>
<p>If you’re short on floor space, try over-door organizers and floating shelves. Use hooks and pegs to hang leashes, mount shelves to hold food and treats and hang cubbies for plush toys, bones and balls. Before installing anything, consult your property management team to <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/6-ways-you-can-break-your-lease-without-knowing-it"><u>verify you won’t break any lease terms</u></a>.</p>
<p>Prioritizing your pet’s items lets you optimize available space. Keep belongings that are used daily in easily accessible bins or baskets. Extra supplies like medication, accessories, clothing and unused toys can go in a closet or organizer under your bed to keep them out of the way.</p>
<h2>Categorize and Label Pet Supplies</h2>
<p>Putting food and treats into dedicated organizers can help you save space that may otherwise be taken up by their original bags and boxes. Grouping similar items allows you to streamline storage and reduce clutter. Labeling containers makes it easier to find specifics like medication or supplements. Stack labeled bins to maximize space and identify supplies quickly.</p>
<h2>Secure Food and Treats</h2>
<p>Establishing a feeding station keeps your animal’s food out of the way. Food bags may be cumbersome, especially if you buy in bulk for a large animal or multiple pets. Putting pet food in plastic bins optimizes available space and secures food, preventing your pet from snacking outside of mealtimes. It’s also an effective way to keep pests like mice or bugs from getting into the food. Place bins in a cabinet, closet or pantry for an added layer of security.</p>
<h2>Keep Storage Clean</h2>
<p>Plastic bins are easy to clean and disinfect, preventing odors and pest infestations. Moisture and dirt on toys and food can harbor bacteria, promoting mold growth that could be dangerous to your pet’s health. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/tips-for-deep-cleaning-your-apartment"><u>Cleaning regularly</u></a> limits the accumulation of dust and dander and prevents guest discomfort if they have pet allergies. Keeping containers, shelves and organizers fresh supports your apartment’s aesthetic appeal, too.</p>
<h2>Pet-Friendly Apartments in Columbus, Ohio</h2>
<p>Living with a pet in an apartment can be a rewarding experience, so it’s important to find a home to suit your and your pet’s needs. Ardent Communities has <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments?amenity=pet-friendly"><u>pet-friendly single and multi-bedroom apartments</u></a> that offer plenty of space and storage to accommodate your belongings. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments"><u>View our living communities</u></a> and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/schedule-a-tour"><u>schedule a tour</u></a>.</p>


Our Blog

Minimalist Apartment Design Ideas for Your Living Space

Apartment Bathroom Organization and Storage Tips

Creating an At-Home Office in an Apartment

Roommate Etiquette Tips for Apartment Living

Storing Pet Supplies in Your Apartment

The Comfort of Home is Here. Find Your Fit!