We all know that moving into your first real apartment (sans dorm room furniture) is an exciting venture—one that opens so many doors into the future (and into a whole new world of furniture and décor that you never knew existed). It is a thrilling time, to say the least, and it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of shopping for things to fill a new place. Let’s just say we’re no stranger to the experience of coming home with several décor accessories, only to find that nothing goes together because you haven’t quite nailed down your “style” yet. Sound familiar? (P.S. If you still need help nailing down your look, we suggest you peruse these Instagram accounts for a little inspo first.)

However, we’re firm believers that if done correctly and intentionally, you can actually come away from your first apartment with a handful of home staples you’ll want to own for a lifetime. Ones that will grow with you from the beginning, and still go with everything even as your style evolves. Don’t believe us yet? Keep scrolling for our input on the top five things you should carry from first apartment to forever home…

1. Quality Artwork

If there is anyone that can tell you that a piece of quality artwork will stay with you for a lifetime, it’s us. Not only is artwork crucial for building the personality of a space, but it’s one of those things that easily takes on new life every time you display it differently—in a new room, in a new frame, or rearranged in a new way in your gallery wall. Besides, it’s never too early to start building a meaningful collection of art that connects with you! We can say from experience that with every move from one home to another, quality artwork never gets old.

2. Well-Made Light Fixtures

Next on our list? Lighting. A great light fixture can single-handedly elevate a space (even your tiny first apartment!) and it will be a piece that you can carry with you for years to come. Set aside a little cash to get one that’s moderately sized—not too big, not too dinky—and made of quality materials that will hold up. The best part is a light fixture can take on a drastic change of character, simply depending on where it’s placed. For instance, the same light fixture that once hung over your first dining table, may someday make an incredible statement piece for your grand master bath. Oh, the places it will go!

3. A Great Accent Chair

In our opinion, it’s hard to tire of a great accent chair. And we’re not just talking about one that you feel lukewarm about when you buy it. Early on in your décor game, shop for a quality accent chair with good bones—one that you love. Accent chairs are easy to transport and can generally find a place to live in almost any new home, so take care in picking one out when it’s time. Plus, in most cases it’s acceptable for a piece like this to stray a bit from the style of the rest of your home. So even if your chair doesn’t match the rest of your décor perfectly down the road, it will still make a great statement piece (and you can always re-cover it).

4. A Sturdy Bed Frame

It probably goes without saying, but the bed is one of the most important pieces of furniture in the home. After all, it’s where you get your hard-earned beauty rest, and nothing says “dorm room” like a mattress propped up on cinder blocks—so don’t hesitate to put the time, effort, and extra dollars in to get a sturdy bed frame. The bed you choose will immediately set the tone for the rest of your bedroom, and if you choose one that is made with care, there’s no doubt it will stick with you for years to come.

5. Statement Rugs

Last, but certainly not least, when shopping for your first apartment, do your research to pick out a well-made statement rug that you’re head-over-heels for. Sure, rugs are easy to swap in and out, but there’s nothing like the charm of a vintage rug that has been with you from day one. Whether your first space can only accommodate a small runner, or a giant room-sized rug, picking one with some color, character, and style will create a solid foundation for your space and can be moved from room to room as you take steps from your first apartment to forever home.

_ What décor items would you add to this list? _

Whether you take our advice word for word, or follow your own interpretation, one thing is for sure—you’ll never regret making thoughtful purchases for your first home, and making room for the things you truly love.

That being said, we’ll help you get a head start on Tip #1 by leaving this link to the GM shop riiiight here. ;)

Xx Team GM

Photos: (Header) Darling Magazine, 1. Polka Dot Media, 2. Gray's Home, 3. Biscuit Home, 4.Gray's Guest Bedroom, & 5. Erin Foster