As Valentine’s Day approaches, our thoughts often change to love. You might think of candle dinners or romantic gestures, but love extends beyond relationships. It’s about how we cultivate the space we live in and how we cultivate the connections we have with them. Loving where you live can have a big impact on your happiness, and for renters in Washington, DC, it is not only possible, but also able to feel that you can turn your apartment into a precious home. essential.
While Washington, DC offers a vibrant lifestyle, it can also pose challenges for renters. The high cost, stressful work environment, limited space and the nature of urban living can be difficult to calm down. However, thoughtful adjustments can turn rentals into a space you love. Explore ways to create a home that is a sanctuary, not just a stopover.
Personalize your space
One of the first steps to love where you live is to make it uniquely feel yours. Rentals may have restrictions, but there are many ways to customize your apartment.
- Add a color: Use removable wallpaper or peel and stick decals to introduce vibrant or calm shades. Area rugs are another great way to bring warmth and character to any room.
- View your story: Showcase meaningful art, family photos or souvenirs from your trip. The walls of the gallery allow you to feel the small space personally.
- Lighting is important: Replace harsh overhead lighting with floor or table lamps to create a cozy atmosphere. Use LED bulbs to save energy and customize brightness levels.
Accepts multi-functional furniture
City Living can impose a limited area and multi-functional furniture is your best friend. Find works that serve dual purposes:
- The storage ottoman can double as a seat.
- A folding table saves space while providing meals and working surfaces when you need it.
- High quality sofa beds are perfect for accommodating guests
Incorporate plants and greenery
Bringing nature indoors can instantly boost your mood and enhance your living space.
- Low maintenance options: Snake plants, pothos and succulents thrive with minimal care.
- Vertical Garden: If floor space is limited, consider a wall-mounted planter.
- window frame: Herbs like basil and mint not only look good and smell good, but also help in cooking.
Create a comfortable zone
Think about how to use your apartment and dedicated area for your design.
- Work corner: As remote work becomes more and more common, we invest in comfortable chairs, desks and excellent lighting.
- Relaxation spot: The corner with gorgeous chairs, blankets and books is a charm for rewinding.
- Fun area: Even small spaces can shine with a suitable set up for hosting, such as a stylish bar cart or a folding chair.
Maintain and update regularly
The cluttered, clean apartments make them more attractive to nature:
- Each quarter, donate or discard any items that are no longer used.
- Use your storage system to hide things you don’t need regularly
- Add seasonal touches such as new cushions and throws to make the space feel fresh.
- Invest in high quality cleaning tools to make it easier to maintain.
Discover the adorable side of DC
Beyond your apartment, Washington, DC is an experienced city that makes life unique here. Embracing the DC lifestyle will help you deepen your connection to where you live. There are several affordable and distinct DC activities to enjoy this Valentine’s Day month.
Love at DC
1. Explore hidden gems:
- American Botanical Garden: Despite being in the middle of winter, the conservatory on the grounds of the US Capitol is a great place to get out of the cold. And a bonus – it’s when orchids are in bloom. Enjoy a touch of tropical environments in downtown DC.
- Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage: Enjoy free performances that showcase local and international talent. Every day, you can see artists from around the world at the Central Hall at Kennedy Center, usually at 6pm. And all you have to do is get there in time! Check out the entire program here: https://www.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/millennium-stage
2. Enjoy DC’s diverse cuisine:
- Sample of global flavors at Union Market. https://unionmarketdc.com
- Grab the hemisphere from Ben’s Chili Bowl, a truly local original, located elsewhere in U Street, H Street and other cities.
3. Embrace the outdoors:
- Walk or ride a bike along the Mount Vernon Trail along the Potomac River. The Capitol Crescent Trail on the west side, the Metropolitan Branch Trail that runs from Union Station to Silver Spring, and the new trail.
- For more information about Cascade Fountains, lively drum circles, snowball fights, and more, visit Malcolm X Park (also known as Meridian Hill Park)!
4. Dive into history:
- Tour lesser-known exhibits at the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum, the National Museum of Asian or African Art, and the incredible Renwick Gallery of American Art on the other side of the White House.
- Explore the Frederick Douglas National Historical Site to gain a deeper understanding of the role of DC in history. https://www.nps.gov/frdo/index.htm
5. Enjoy a culture of affordability:
- Attend a paying night at local theatres such as Studio Theatre, Wool Mammoth Theatre Company and Theater J, located in 16 Jewish Community Centres.th Street and Q Street, northwest.
- Enjoy free museum access all year round, from the National Gallery of Art to the Hirschhorn Museum.
Create a life you love
Love where you live isn’t just the walls surrounding you. It’s about the life you create within them. It’s better to personalize your apartment and immerse yourself in the unique experiences of the DC Offer to promote a sense of personal belonging and joy. Don’t forget to cultivate not only your relationships, but also your relationship with your home and city. After all, love begins at home.
Scott Bloom He is the owner and senior property manager of Columbia Property Management. For more information and resources, please visit columbiapm.com
The location-loving post to rent in DC first appeared in Washington Blade: LGBTQ News, Politics, LGBTQ Rights, and Gay News.
Source: Washington Blade: LGBTQ News, Politics, LGBTQ Rights, Gay News – www.washingtonblade.com
