If you're new to the world of renting an apartment, here are the essential pieces of furniture you should invest in. You don’t necessarily need them all, but chances are you’ll need most of them to enjoy your space to the fullest.
A bed or sofa bed
At the end of the day, you need a place to lay your head and rest. This is where a bed or futon bed comes in handy. Yes, you can get away with sleeping on a couch if that’s all you have, but a bed is much better for your back and is a worthwhile investment. If you are on a tight budget, be sure to look for a bedframe and mattress (or just a mattress if your budget is super tight) at Ikea or on Amazon as both retailers offer a plethora of affordable options. If you’re living in a small space or studio, consider a sofa or futon bed which converts into a couch by day and a bed by night.
A dining table and chairs
You’ll also need a place to eat -- that’s ideally not your couch, your bed or the floor! We highly recommend investing in a dining/kitchen table and chairs. If space is at a premium, look for a folding table and chairs you can tuck away when you’re not using them. Tables can range in size dramatically -- from two seaters to ten plus! Be careful that what you buy will fit well in your space by taking note of the item’s measurements before you buy and ensuring your space can accommodate them.
A sofa, couch or loveseat
If you don’t end up with a sofa bed, you may want to invest in a sofa, couch or loveseat. Basically you want a designated piece of furniture for kicking back and relaxing in your home. They’re also great to sit on when you have company. Ikea has some incredibly affordable and comfortable options for new renters, plus many options for those looking to spend more. Be sure to note the piece’s measurements before you buy to ensure it will fit nicely in your space.
A desk and chair
Many new renters are students moving into their very first apartment. As a student, you should try to carve out dedicated space to work in your home. While this could be your dining table or couch, it’s better if you can invest in a desk and chair. You want to have an area that is intended for work that you can separate from the other areas of your home that have other purposes like relaxation, dining and sleep.
We hope you’ll invest in these must-have pieces of furniture for new renters. You may not need them all, but you’ll probably need most of them!
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