Congratulations! You have a brand new apartment! Whether it’s a condo downtown, a townhouse on the edge of the city, or one of the many great East Worcester apartments, you are lucky to have a place you can call your own.

But now that you have found your new home, you have the hard but exciting task of decorating your space and making it your own. This is easier said than done. Some people make mistakes or they just get plain overwhelmed and then don’t decorate like they want. But that shouldn’t be you! Instead, you should follow these simple tips and tricks to make your new apartment feel full of your personality and taste.

Before you dive into shopping and decorating, take some time to plan. Think about the overall vibe you want for your apartment. Do you prefer a modern, minimalist look, or are you more into a cozy, eclectic feel? Gather inspiration from magazines, the internet, or another source to help define your style.

Focus on the Essentials: Begin by finding and getting the essential pieces of furniture. For starters, choose a sofa that fits your space and style. Consider the material and color; a neutral shade is versatile and can be dressed up with colorful throw pillows.

Your bed is also crucial for a good night’s sleep. Pick a comfortable mattress and a bed frame that complements your style, whether it’s a sleek platform bed or a classic wooden frame.

Functional Furniture: After the essentials, add functional furniture to make your space livable and organized. Use bookshelves, cabinets, and storage bins to keep your space tidy. Multi-functional furniture like storage ottomans or beds with drawers can be a lifesaver in smaller apartments.

If you work from home or need a study area, find a comfortable desk and chair. Ensure it’s well-lit and has enough space for your essentials.

Personalize: Now comes the fun part: adding personality to your space with decor! To get things started, think of rugs. A good rug can anchor a room and add warmth. Choose one that fits your color scheme and style.

Hang artwork and photos that reflect your interests and memories. Create a gallery wall or place larger pieces strategically to draw the eye.

Remember that good lighting can also transform a space. Combine ambient lighting (such as ceiling lights) with task lighting (like desk lamps) and accent lighting (like string lights or floor lamps) to create a cozy atmosphere.

Throw pillows and blankets are easy ways to add color and texture. Mix and match patterns and materials to create a comfortable and stylish look.

Personal Touches: Your apartment should feel like home, so add personal touches that make you happy. For example, display your favorite books on shelves or coffee tables or incorporate items related to your hobbies, like musical instruments, travel souvenirs, or sports equipment.

Set the tone and atmosphere in other ways too. You can use candles, essential oils, or diffusers to add pleasant scents to your space. Don’t only think about how you want your apartment to look, but think about how you want it to feel too!