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So, The Apartment Source helped you find your dream Chicago apartment, now what? Unless you are paying the big bucks for a fully furnished apartment, the natural next step would be to make yourself at home by decorating your new space. Not everyone has an eye for design, but there are a few simple tips and tricks you can follow to decorate your apartment to improve your physical and mental health while also serving all of your functional needs. Because we at The Apartment Source are thoroughly invested in your home journey as well as your overall well-being, we are here to provide a tried and true solution for you: feng shui.
Dating back to ancient China, feng shui (literally “wind-water”) is the idea of arranging one’s surroundings to optimize energy flow allowing for a happier and healthier lifestyle.
When practicing feng shui, it is crucial to understand the basic elements of life: fire, water, earth, metal and wood. Each element can be represented by decor, colors, shapes, or materials and add their own signature energy to your apartment. For example, the element of fire brings in passion, warmth, and transformation and can be represented by candles, warm colors, pointed shapes, and items that produce light like electronics. Water, on the other hand, symbolizes the pursuit of prosperity and abundance and can be represented with mirrors, cool and dark colors, abstract shapes, and water itself. Incorporating and balancing each element in your apartment can create a harmonious environment that will support you in all aspects of life.
Here are a few simple feng shui practices you can incorporate into your apartment:
#1 Decluttering
The first step is to channel your inner Marie Kondo. If you don’t know who Marie Kondo is, then your actual first step is to crawl out of whatever rock you’ve been living under and watch her series ‘Tidying Up’ on Netflix. Having too many things lying around can create a sense of chaos that disrupts the flow of energy, so removing unnecessary items will help with stress relief. Declutter your physical space and your mind is sure to follow suit.
Image features The Willard – Brand new luxury boutique apartments in Chicago’s West Loop. 4 + 5 bedroom apartments are available ranging from $16,995-$19,995/mo.
#2 Improve your Entrance
The entryway to your home is a physical and energetic gateway; it sets the tone for anyone entering the space. The first glimpse of your apartment can make a lasting impression, and a little intention can go a long way to ensure a clear and calm path to the rest of your apartment. Adding some artful organization, warm lighting, and making sure that your door opens smoothly for visitors are some of many ways you can create an inviting atmosphere.
#3 The Purpose of Rooms
It is important to recognize the purpose for each room in your apartment to set an intention for the energy you want to invite into that space. For example, your bedroom is your refuge of rest and rejuvenation, whereas your living room is meant for socializing and relaxation. Knowing the purpose of your rooms can help you identify what you need to optimize in those rooms. In the bedroom, using soothing colors, soft lighting and fabrics, calming artwork, and minimizing electronic use can promote relaxation. For the living room, you can arrange the furniture in a way that encourages conversation and movement; perhaps adding wood-element decor and sufficient lighting that can improve the ambiance and air quality. Finally for the kitchen, which symbolizes health and prosperity, you may organize in a way that your fire elements are apart from your water elements, or try to add wooden utensils or decor to balance out the metal appliances. Understanding and optimizing your room to fit its needs can create a more balanced and straightforward environment.
Image features The Sage – Brand new luxury full amenity high rise in Chicago’s West Loop. Studio, 1, + 2 bedroom apartments available ranging from $1,950-$3,786/mo.
#4 Personal Touches
Lastly, remember that this new apartment is YOUR living space. Don’t shy away from adding unique elements that make you happy whether it be pictures of loved ones, family heirlooms, or anything that sparks joy or comfort in your life. Your apartment is a safe space for self exploration and creativity, so we suggest you put down the pottery barn catalog and hit up some local stores to see what resonates with your personal style.
Image features River West Lofts – loft-style luxury rental homes converted from a shoe factory. 1 + 2 bedroom apartments available ranging from $2,295-$3,195/mo,
By incorporating feng shui into your living space, you can create an environment that supports you in all aspects of your daily life. No matter what your budget is for your next apartment to rent, remember that there are simple and inexpensive feng shui practices you can bring into your home that will improve your quality of life. Here at The Apartment Source, not only do we provide you with a place to live, we provide a place for you to succeed.
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