Just got the keys to your first apartment? Congratulations! 🎉 Now, the real question: how do you transform that empty cube into a stylish haven without breaking the bank? Spoiler alert: it's totally possible for under €500. We'll tell you EVERYTHING.
Introduction: Welcome to Your New Kingdom (Even If the Walls Are Beige)
Ah, your first apartment! That magical moment when you realize that yes, you're free… but also that no one's going to do the grocery shopping for you. Between the excitement of independence and the panic of looking at your bank account after the security deposit, decorating your first place can feel as stressful as a job interview. 😅
The good news? Decorating your first apartment on a budget isn't just possible, it's become an art form. And spoiler alert: you don't need a fortune or the talent of Sarah Lavoine to create a stunning interior. Sometimes, all it takes is a well-placed throw, three stylish cushions, and a plant that can survive more than a month to transform your studio apartment from a "student dorm" into an "Instagrammable haven."
In this comprehensive guide, we'll show you how to transform your apartment into a true little paradise for Under €500 . Yes, you read that right. No marketing hype or impossible advice like "just buy that designer armchair for €800," no. Just concrete, tried-and-tested tips, great places we actually use, and a good dose of humor because, ultimately, an apartment is supposed to be fun, not an additional source of stress.
You'll learn how to create a realistic decorating budget without sacrificing your Saturday nights out, discover the essentials to buy first so you don't end up with fifteen candles but no curtains, and most importantly, understand where to shop smart without sacrificing style. We'll also talk about classic beginner mistakes (like buying a sofa without measuring the doorway—been there, done that!), share DIY ideas even if you're all thumbs, and reveal how to create the illusion of space in a 25m² apartment. Because yes, it's possible.
Ready to transform your apartment into a palace? (The sensible version, let's be realistic) Let's go! 🚀
Chapter 1: First Budget Apartment – The Basics
Why Decorating Your First Apartment Is Important (No, It's Not Superficial)
Let's be honest for a second: decorating your first apartment is way more than just sticking IKEA posters on the walls. It's about creating your first real home. The place where you'll unwind after a tough day, invite your friends over for raclette nights, and maybe even burn your first pasta dish (no judgment, we've all been there). 🍝
An interior that reflects your personality isn't just superficial luxury. It's a genuine, instant mental boost. Imagine walking into an apartment that's all beige and empty versus walking into YOUR apartment, with your things, your colors, that plant you're super proud of because it survived three months. The difference in your mood is enormous, believe me.
And then there's that personal pride when your friends drop by and say, "Wow, your place is so cool!" even though you know perfectly well your sofa is from a classifieds site and your coffee table is literally a varnished pallet. 💪 According to a recent study, 73% of young adults believe their interior design directly influences their daily well-being. So no, wanting an apartment that really rocks isn't superficial at all.
Plus, making the right choices from the start prevents impulsive purchases because, in the end, that candy-pink cushion that caught your eye at 3 a.m. on Amazon was just not what you wanted. It's also how you develop your own style, how you learn what you truly like beyond the latest Pinterest trends.
How Much Does It REALLY Cost To Decorate A First Apartment?
Let's be frank, because this is THE question that's been on your mind. The average budget for decorating a first apartment in France is around €2,000, according to statistics. Yes, two thousand euros. But take a breath, because spoiler alert: You absolutely do not need that amount of money to get a fantastic result .
Honestly, with €500 well spent, you can work wonders. The key is knowing where to prioritize your money. Think about it: would you rather blow €200 on a super-stylish vase that will just gather dust, or invest that €200 in real textiles that will transform the atmosphere of your living room?
Here's how you can allocate your €500 wisely. For textiles like curtains, throws, and cushions, budget between €100 and €150 – this is your best investment in terms of value for money. Then, keep €100-€120 for a few small accent pieces, like a nice shelf or a stool that can double as a side table. Wall decor, with frames, mirrors, and posters, will cost you €50-€80 max. For lighting (string lights, table lamps), budget €60-€80. Kitchen and bathroom accessories are €50-€70. Plants with pretty pots are €30-€50. And finally, keep €60-€100 for those little decorative items that make all the difference: vases, candles, those things that add character. 💚
Pro tip? Start with the essentials and gradually add to them as you go. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither will your apartment. And most importantly, your bank account will thank you.
The Ultimate Checklist Before You Start
Before you dive headfirst into Vinted or Action (we know you're already thinking about it), take 30 minutes to answer these questions. It sounds tedious, but it'll save you a lot of money on impulse buys you'll regret.
First, what type of accommodation do you have: a studio, a one-bedroom, or a two-bedroom? The size makes all the difference. Decorating 18 square meters is a completely different experience than decorating 45 square meters. Is it furnished or unfurnished? Because if it's furnished, your decorating budget can focus on accessories. If it's unfurnished… well, then you'll have to be strategic. And most importantly, are you renting or owning? If you're renting, you need to check what your landlord will or won't allow regarding holes in the walls, paint, etc. Losing your deposit because of a purple wall is heartbreaking AND financially draining.
Next, be honest with yourself about the budget. How much can you REALLY spend? Like, really, really spend, not "I wish I could spend." Do you prefer to do it all at once or spread it out over 3-6 months? Personally, I recommend spreading it out; it's easier on the bank account. And check if you already have any furniture you can salvage—thanks, Grandma, for that vintage sideboard that's going to be super trendy with a coat of paint! 🙏
Now for the style question. Are you more of a minimalist Marie Kondo type, or bohemian with plants everywhere? Do you love neutral and calming colors, or do you want a pop of color? Vintage industrial, cozy Scandinavian, or maybe you have no idea and that's okay too? Take some time to scroll through Pinterest or Instagram, save what you like, and you'll soon see patterns emerge.
And finally, very important: your DIY skills. Be realistic. Can you hammer a nail without crying, or is that mission impossible? Does DIY appeal to you, or does it terrify you? Do you have any handy friends you can bribe with beers and pizza? Because some decorating projects are super simple, others… well, it's better to delegate or pay a pro.
Once you've answered all that, you can really tackle the decorating with your eyes open, with a solid plan. I promise, it makes all the difference.
Chapter 2: Decorating Essentials for Your First Apartment
Textiles, Your Best Decorating Buddy
Textiles are absolutely essential when you're starting out. Like, if you could only invest in one type of decor, it would be this. Why? Because a well-placed throw, some nice cushions, and curtains that don't look like your grandma's can instantly transform a cold space into a truly cozy haven. And frankly, it's one of the least expensive aspects of decorating.
To start, go for sheer curtains between €15 and €30 from H&M Home or Gifi. Then, get 2-3 colorful cushions for €5-€10 each, a cozy throw for €20-€35, and if you have a little budget left over, a small entryway rug for €15-€25 to make it welcoming as soon as you walk in. 🏡
Here's a killer tip: end-of-season sales at Zara Home or H&M Home are easily 50% or even 70% off. Subscribe to their newsletters with a junk email address just to get the sale alerts. You'll thank me later.
Lighting, because fluorescent neon is definitely a no-go.
Nothing, absolutely NOTHING, is worse than lighting that makes you feel like you're in a police station, or worse, a gas station restroom. Lighting easily accounts for 80% of an apartment's atmosphere. You can have the most beautiful furniture in the world, but if your lighting is terrible, your apartment will be terrible. Period.
The most affordable and effective solution? LED string lights. Between €8 and €15, they're long-lasting, use next to no energy, and instantly create an amazingly cozy atmosphere. Add an IKEA bedside lamp for €10-€20, maybe a second-hand floor lamp from Leboncoin for €15-€30, and if you really want to do it right, a dimmer switch for €10. Game changer, seriously. 💡
The trick for lighting? Always opt for "warm white" bulbs (2700-3000K). Honestly, leave cool white for hospitals. In your home, you want warmth and coziness, not the feeling of being in an operating room.
Plants, Your New Roommates
Plants are definitely THE trend that's been going strong forever, like... forever? Besides purifying the air and giving you that feeling of being a responsible adult capable of keeping something alive, they add so much life to an apartment, it's insane. 🌿
To get started without the frustration of everything dying after two weeks, focus on the hardiest plants. Pothos is king – €5-8 and you can propagate it endlessly, so it's literally free plants forever. Sansevieria (or mother-in-law's tongue, if you prefer its nickname) at €8-12 survives even if you forget about it for three weeks. Succulents at €3-5 each and cacti at €4-7 are also practically indestructible.
A crazy little hack: ask your friends or family for cuttings. It's free, it creates a bond, and each plant has a story behind it. How sweet is that? For plant pots, no need to spend a fortune: terracotta pots for €2-5, discounted wicker baskets from Maisons du Monde for €8-15, or even customize old pots with acrylic paint. Total cost: €0 and personal pride: boundless.
Kitchen Decor Items That Change Everything
Your kitchen isn't just a place to reheat your frozen meals (no judgment here). It's a real living space that deserves attention. And the good news is, with a few well-chosen items, you can completely transform the atmosphere.
For example, the Dolls Salt and Pepper Shaker €18.50. Walk walk fashion baby! This salt and pepper shaker literally transforms the simple act of adding salt into a mini fashion show. With its fun and fashionable design, it brings a smile to every meal. Place it on a decorative tray or directly on the table, and voilà, instant style guaranteed. 💃
In the same quirky spirit, the Oven Glove Puppet Dog Because cooking should always be fun, right? This glove protects your hands while giving you an adorable kitchen companion. Kids love it (and grown-ups who own it do too, admit it). 🐶
If you want to play the French touch card with humor, there's the Ceramic Salt and Pepper Shaker Set This baguette-shaped salt and pepper shakers are perfect for shouting "Vive la France!" without being cheesy. They add a touch of typically French humor. Ideal for impressing your foreign guests who come to see your Parisian apartment. 🥖
And for the morning, nothing beats the Ceramic Carrot Mug Start your day with a smile. This original carrot-shaped mug transforms your morning coffee into a fun moment. Cute and practical, it's the kind of item that sparks conversation when your friends drop by for coffee. 🥕
Other essential budget-friendly kitchen items include: glass jars for bulk goods at €1-3 each (or even free if you recycle your jam jars), a decorative cutting board for €12-20, and graphic tea towels at €5-8 each. Simple but effective.
The Vase, This Multi-Functional Object
A vase is a bit like the little black dress of home decor: it goes with everything and is always elegant. And the cool thing is, a vase can be used for all sorts of different things depending on your mood.
THE The Baguette Ceramic Vase , for example, is the vase that adds a touch of humor and French flair to your decor. You can place fresh flowers, dried flowers, or even just leave it empty on a shelf – it will make a statement either way. On a coffee table, a desk, a console table, it fits anywhere. 🥖
For more classic but equally stylish alternatives, there are colorful vases from Action for €3-7, or the ultimate hack: recycled glass bottles. Remove the label, perhaps customize it with paint or string, and boom, free vase! Vintage vases found at flea markets for €5-15 are also a great option if you want something unique.
For flowers, if you're on a tight budget: dried flowers between €8 and €15 last for months, branches gathered in the forest are free and super trendy, and pampas grass at €10 is stylish AND long-lasting. Honestly, investing €20 in dried flowers that will last 6 months is more cost-effective than buying fresh flowers every week.
Candles and Candle Holders for a Cozy Atmosphere
Honestly, nothing says "I'm a grown-up who's got their life under control" like well-placed decorative candles. It's amazing how they instantly change the atmosphere of an apartment, especially in the evening when you just want to relax. 🕯️
THE The Parisian candlestick is the decorative accessory that screams "I'm Parisian and proud of it!" This candlestick adds a touch of urban elegance to your apartment. Place it on a coffee table, a console table, or even a mantelpiece if you're lucky enough to have one, and it makes an instant impact.
As for the candles themselves, there's no need to break the bank. Tealights are €2-4 for 10, white pillar candles are €5-10, or scented candles at Gifi or Action are €3-6. Honestly, nobody can tell the difference between these and €30 candles, except maybe for how long they burn, but whatever.
A quick safety disclaimer because we're responsible: always place candles on a stable surface and away from fabrics. Responsible adults, you know. We want a cozy apartment, not a burnt-out one. 🔥
Decorative Storage: Because Clutter Isn't Stylish
In a small space, storage is absolutely VITAL. Like, not an option. But who said it had to be ugly? There are plenty of storage solutions that are both functional and stylish, I promise.
Wicker baskets between €10 and €20 from H&M Home or Maisons du Monde are the perfect solution. They hide all the clutter (remote controls, chargers, that thing you don't know what to do with but keep just in case) while also being super stylish. Nicely decorated cardboard storage boxes for €5-€12 do the same job.
If you have a slightly bigger budget, the IKEA Kallax cube shelf, priced between €35 and €60, is an investment that will easily last 10 years. It can be used as a bookcase, a room divider, or for storing absolutely everything. It's kind of the ultimate Lego piece for apartment organization. And for those who don't have a closet (what a pain!), a clothes rack between €20 and €40 is a lifesaver.
Space-saving tip: multifunctional furniture is your best friend. A pouf that also serves as a storage chest, a bench with built-in storage, a bed with drawers… Every square centimeter must be optimized when you live in 25m².
Chapter 3: Smart Shopping – The Best Places to Shop for Your First Apartment
Action: The Temple of Low Prices
Let's be honest, Action is kind of the best and worst place to shop for home decor. The best because you can put together a basket of decor for €15-30 and leave with some amazing stuff. The worst because you go in to buy ONE candle and you leave with 12 items, half of which you'll wonder the next day why you bought them. 😅
But clearly, when it comes to candles, picture frames, vases, and small decorative items, Action is unbeatable on price. However, a golden rule: avoid furniture. The quality is far too inconsistent, and it often doesn't last. For everything else, go for it.
IKEA, The Essential
IKEA is a bit like the McDonald's of home decor: everyone goes, everyone says it's not great, but in the end, everyone leaves with something. And for a first apartment on a tight budget, frankly, IKEA is a game changer. The design is Scandinavian, so it's pretty timeless, the quality is decent for the price, and above all, there are sections that are less well-known but are fantastic.
Expect to spend €50-100 per visit on average, but the key thing to know is that there's a "Second-hand" section with returned or slightly damaged furniture at 50% off. And the "End of Line" section is the same—easily 50% off. You just have to be a little patient and check regularly. Kallax units, textiles, and lighting fixtures are always safe bets. Just beware of the "it's cheap, so I'll take it" trap—think before you buy, otherwise you'll end up with three identical lamps.
H&M Home: Stylish on a Budget
H&M Home is a bit of a best-kept secret for trendy decor at affordable prices. Expect to spend €30-60 per basket, and frankly, the quality is often better than at more expensive stores. They're really great with cushions, curtains, candles—basically anything textile.
The perfect time to shop there? During the sales. You can easily find things at 70% off, it's just crazy. Subscribe to their newsletter and you'll be notified about sales in advance. Just be careful because the collections change super fast, so if you see something you like, don't hesitate too long.
Maisons du Monde (But Only on Sale)
Maisons du Monde is amazing. Seriously. The style, the variety, everything is top-notch. But the prices… ouch. So rule number one: NEVER BUY AT full price from Maisons du Monde when you're on a budget. Never. Wait for the sales, and then, miraculously, everything becomes affordable.
You can easily put together a basket for €50-80 during the sales, whereas the same items at full price would have cost you €150-200. They have sales several times a year, and often you can get discounts of 50% or even more. Patience is key. In the meantime, you can go for inspiration, take photos, and then find cheaper alternatives elsewhere.
Little Finder: French Originality
Absolutely love at first sight. Petit Dénicheur is the perfect site when you're looking for original decorative objects, French and European craftsmanship, things you can't find everywhere. Expect to spend €30-70 per order on average, but honestly, each item has real character.
This is the kind of shop where you find unique decorative gifts, unusual items that really make a difference in your apartment. The quality is excellent, the originality too, and they ship quickly from France. When you want to add that personal touch that makes your apartment stand out from everyone else's, this is definitely the place to check out. 🇫🇷
Second-hand: The Real Good Deal
Honestly, secondhand is THE secret to creating stylish interiors without breaking the bank. And it's become incredibly easy to find real gems now.
Leboncoin is king. You can find EVERYTHING there, the selection is huge, and you can negotiate. Search tips: use the "free" or "clearance" filters, sort by price (low to high), and be quick because the best deals go fast. The best deals you'll find? Vintage furniture, appliances, and lighting. However, beware of scams: always go see/test things in person.
Vinted now has a Home section and honestly, it's great for textiles, small decorative items, and tableware. There's buyer protection and delivery, so it's safer than Leboncoin. Best time to find things? Sunday evenings, lots of new listings.
Facebook Marketplace is convenient because it's local and fast. You can pick it up the same day if the seller is available. Perfect for large furniture or appliances. Also, join the "Free" groups in your city; there are often people getting rid of things for free just because they're moving.
Emmaus and reuse centers are an absolute goldmine. Unbeatable prices, a social cause behind them, and you can find some truly amazing things. Best day to go? Wednesday or Thursday, that's often when they get fresh deliveries. You can find gorgeous vintage furniture, dishes, books—really everything.
And finally, flea markets and garage sales. For true treasure hunters. Strategic timing: arrive either at 8 a.m. to have a wider selection, or at noon to negotiate prices down to 50% because the sellers don't want to take everything home. The foolproof negotiation trick? "I'll come and get it now, can you give me a discount?"
Chapter 4: Beginner Mistakes to Avoid (Because We've All Been There)
Wanting to Buy Everything at Once
This is THE trap that 99% of people fall into, myself included. You want a finished apartment NOW. Like right now. The result? You buy anything and everything in a rush, you spend €800 in a week, and in the end, you regret half your purchases. Been there, done that, done it. Regretted it.
The real solution? Take it one step at a time. The first week, buy only the essential, functional items. The second week, add the comforts. And then, take your time, month after month, with the decorating. Your apartment will evolve with you, and frankly, it's much healthier for your bank account AND your mental well-being.
Neglecting the Measures
Ah, the classic mistake. "That sofa looks perfect in the picture!" Yes, but here's the thing: it won't fit through the door. Or it will, but it literally takes up your entire studio apartment and you can't move. True story, it happens to EVERYONE.
The solution is incredibly simple, but nobody does it: ALWAYS measure before buying. Take a tape measure, measure your doorway, measure the available space, and write everything down on your phone. There are even apps like MagicPlan that let you visualize in 3D. Use them. It takes 5 minutes and saves you from disasters.
Forget the Lighting
Many people think lighting is secondary, that they'll deal with it later. Wrong. Big wrong. A poorly lit apartment, even with the most beautiful decor in the world, completely kills the atmosphere. Seriously.
The key is to multiply your light sources. A ceiling light + accent lamps + ambient lighting (string lights, candles). Each area of your apartment should have its own light source. Living room, bedroom, office nook, kitchen… Think in terms of layers of light, not just one big light on the ceiling.
Buy Everything New
There's still this idea that secondhand is dirty or ugly. But honestly, the most beautiful apartments I've seen always mix new and vintage pieces. That's what gives them character, authenticity, what makes an interior tell a story rather than looking like an IKEA catalog.
My personal rule: new for the bed and mattress (hygiene, you know), towels and bed linens, and maybe the dishes if you're particular about that. But for furniture, decor, and lighting? Secondhand all the way. You save a fortune and get unique pieces.
Blindly Following Trends
Beware of the trap! Decorating everything in dusty rose just because it's all over Instagram is tempting. Except that in six months, you'll hate pink. And then you'll have to redo everything. I've seen it way too many times.
The real trick? A neutral base + trendy touches that are easy to change. Like, your walls, your large furniture pieces—all of that stays neutral and timeless. And you follow the trends with cushions, posters, small decorative objects that you can change without breaking the bank. That way, your apartment evolves, but you don't have to redo everything every six months.
Chapter 5: Room by Room – Decorating Intelligently
The Salon, Your HQ
The living room, or main living space if you're in a studio apartment, is really THE room where you spend 80% of your time. It's best if it looks its best. And the good news is, you don't need much to make it look amazing.
For a sofa, if your budget is super tight, consider a giant beanbag for €60 with floor cushions for €30. It does the job and is incredibly cozy. Mid-range budget? A two-seater sofa from Conforama for €250. Or, you could find a second-hand one on Leboncoin for between €100 and €200, but be sure to check the condition thoroughly. Rental tip: buy a sofa cover for between €30 and €50; it completely transforms an old, ugly sofa into a stylish piece.
For the coffee table, there's the free DIY Euro pallet kit + casters for €12 + varnish for €8, making a total budget of €20. Alternatively, there's the famous Ikea Lack for €10, a legend that spans generations of students. Or, for a vintage version, a flea market find for between €30 and €50.
A rug is essential, really. It defines the space and instantly adds warmth. Budget between €40 and €80 depending on the size; check for sales at La Redoute or the Maisons du Monde outlet.
The Kitchen, Even Tiny
Your kitchen deserves style, even if it's only 3 square meters. And with the right decorative items, you can really transform it into a nice space rather than just a depressing, functional corner.
On the work surface, focus on objects that are both beautiful AND useful. Dolls Salt and Pepper Shaker or the Baguette version At €18.50, it offers both style and function. Baguette Vase With aromatic herbs inside, it's the perfect combination of decor and kitchenware. A pretty soap dispenser for €8, a utensil holder for €12, and it's already much better.
For smart storage, glass jars for bulk goods are great (€3 each or free if you recycle). A magnetic knife strip for €15 frees up counter space. A fruit basket for €10, a spice rack for €20, and there you have it.
And for the atmosphere, graphic tea towels at €5 each, a fun apron at €15, and why not the Puppet oven mitt Just for a bit of fun while cooking. Tip if you're renting: a €25 adhesive backsplash completely transforms a kitchen without drilling or painting.
The Room, Your Sanctuary
Your room is your place of rest, your sanctuary. It deserves to be properly cared for because a good night's sleep is non-negotiable.
First priority: bed linen. A basic set costs €25 at Kiabi or H&M Home, a slightly more stylish duvet cover is €35. Honestly, invest in it here; it's literally your sleeping comfort, and you spend like 8 hours a day in it.
Blackout curtains are essential if you want to sleep well. Budget €30-50 a pair. DIY alternative if you're feeling ambitious: blackout fabric at €15 per meter with a curtain rod at €12.
For lighting, a bedside lamp for €15, a string of lights for the headboard for €10, and maybe a nightlight for €8 if you like. The idea is to have soft, not harsh, light.
Clothing storage: if you don't have a closet, the Ikea Mulig clothes rack at €8 is the bare minimum. Add some boxes under the bed at €12 each to optimize space. And here's a great visual hack: identical hangers at €8 for 20 instantly create a tidy and clean look.
The Bathroom
The bathroom is often neglected, but it's where you start your day. It might as well be welcoming, right?
The essentials: a soft bath mat for €15, a soap/lotion dispenser for €12, a toothbrush holder for €8, and a stylish shower curtain between €12 and €20. It sounds silly, but a nice shower curtain really makes all the difference.
For storage, a laundry basket for €15, a suction cup wall shelf for €10 (no drilling, perfect for renting), and a drawer organizer for €8.
A spa-like atmosphere with a moisture-loving plant (pothos or aloe vera) for €7, a candle for €6, matching towels for €20, and why not a candlestick for relaxing moments in the bath.
A game-changing tip: a pretty handmade soap costing €5 really makes all the difference visually. It sounds silly, but it's true.
Chapter 6: A Practical Budget – How to Allocate Your €500
Okay, let's get down to brass tacks now. You have €500 in front of you, how do you spend it wisely to decorate a studio or a one-bedroom apartment of 25-30m²?
For the living room or main room, budget €180. A 120x170cm rug will cost you €60, four decorative cushions €30, a throw €20, LED string lights €12, a wall mirror €25, two framed posters €25, and a candle with a holder €8. With that, your living room is already completely transformed.
For the kitchen, keep 85€. Storage jars (six pieces) for 18€, three tea towels for 15€, an original salt and pepper shaker 18€, a vase with aromatic herbs 20€, a fruit basket 10€, and some fun accessories for 4€.
The bedroom or sleeping area is worth €130. A trendy bed linen set is €40, a blackout curtain €35, a bedside lamp €18, three decorative cushions €22, and an extra throw €15.
Bathroom, €45 is sufficient. Bath mat €15, shower curtain €15, soap and lotion dispensers €10, candle €5.
For plants and green decor, €30. Three easy-care plants €18, three plant pots €12.
Storage, €20 for two wicker baskets.
And definitely keep €10 in reserve for unexpected expenses or that little impulse buy. Total: €490. You're right on budget.
If you have a larger two-room apartment (40-50m²), expect to pay around €650. Just add €100 for decorating the extra room and €60 for additional textiles.
And frankly, the best advice I can give you is to spread it out over time. Month 1, spend €200 on essential functional items, basic textiles, and basic storage. Month 2, add €150 for wall decor, plants, and lighting. Month 3, finish with €150 to improve comfort, add decorative touches, and refine the finishing touches. Over three months, that's €500, but without the financial pressure. Much more manageable.
Chapter 7: Pro Tips Nobody Tells You
Maximize Visual Space
There are interior design techniques you can totally apply yourself to make your 20m² space feel like 30m². Without moving or knocking down any walls, I promise.
Strategic mirrors are key. A mirror placed opposite a window will literally double the natural light in your room. A large wall mirror creates the illusion that your space is twice its actual size. For a budget of €25 to €60, the effect is amazing.
Light colors on the walls seem obvious, but they're incredibly effective. White, beige, or light gray for the walls. If your landlord lets you, even paint the ceiling pure white; it visually increases the ceiling height. Then you can add touches of color through accessories, so you can change things up without repainting.
Transparent or visually light furniture, like a clear plastic chair, doesn't obstruct the view. A glass or acrylic table gives an impression of lightness. Wall shelves instead of large floor-standing furniture also visually free up space.
Vertical storage is something we never think about enough. Height is often completely overlooked, even though you can store so much there. Shelves that reach the ceiling, hanging plants—all of this makes use of vertical space.
Multifunctional furniture is essential. A pouf that serves as both storage AND a side table. A bench that provides seating, storage, and room dividers. A bed with built-in drawers. Every piece of furniture should have multiple functions.
And here's the trick for high curtains: install your curtain rod ON THE CEILING, not just above the window. The visual effect makes the room look so much bigger, it's amazing. It doesn't even cost more, just €5 for extra brackets.
Creating Zones in a Studio
When you live in a single room, creating distinct zones really helps psychologically. And you can do it without building walls.
A rug visually defines the space. Place one rug under your living room area, another under your bedroom or office area, and voilà, two distinct zones. Budget €40 per zone.
An open shelf like the IKEA Kallax (€35) can be placed perpendicular to the wall to divide the space without blocking light. Perfect for separating the sleeping area from the rest of the room without feeling closed off.
A curtain on a rod effectively separates the sleeping area from the rest of the apartment when you want a little privacy. Rod plus curtain: €30.
Color works too. A section of wall in a different color visually creates a distinct area. A can of paint for a single wall costs €25.
And lighting, again and again. Different lighting in each area creates distinct moods. A floor lamp for the reading nook, a pendant light above the dining table, string lights in the sleeping area. Each zone has its own lighting.
Chapter 8: Frequently Asked Questions (The Real Ones)
How much does it really take to decorate a first apartment?
Between €300 if you go for a strict minimalist look à la Marie Kondo, and €800 for something really comfortable. Our sweet spot is €500 because it allows you to achieve a truly stunning result without breaking the bank. It's doable, tried and tested.
What should I buy FIRST?
In order of absolute priority: textiles first (curtains, bedding), then lighting because ambiance is everything, then plants to bring life to the space, and finally wall decor. You can either reuse furniture or buy it little by little.
Is it really possible to decorate a rental apartment without losing your deposit?
Absolutely! Just avoid making unnecessary holes in the walls. Opt for adhesive solutions, like Blu Tack for posters, suction cup hooks, that sort of thing. Take photos of the original state with the original paint, so you can put everything back the way it was if needed. And read your rental agreement carefully to know what is and isn't allowed.
How can you avoid feeling suffocated in a 20m² studio apartment?
The golden rule: light colors everywhere, mirrors to visually enlarge the space, vertical storage to utilize height, multifunctional furniture to optimize every square inch, and above all, regular decluttering. The fewer things you have lying around, the more the space breathes. It's simple math.
How can I tell if my decorating budget is realistic?
List all your essentials, price each item, and add a 20% safety margin. If the total exceeds 50% of your monthly rent, reassess and prioritize accordingly. For example, if you pay €600 in rent, your decorating budget shouldn't ideally exceed €300; otherwise, you're taking on too much at once.
Conclusion: Your First Home Is Now 🏠💚
There you have it, you now have absolutely ALL the tools you need to transform your first apartment into a true personal paradise without emptying your bank account. And spoiler alert: it's really possible.
The most important thing to remember? Your first apartment doesn't need to be perfect from day one. It will evolve with you, with your discoveries, your changing tastes, and the things you'll find along the way. It's a process, not a final destination. And that's exactly what makes it so cool.
Start by sticking to your budget, but stay flexible. Buy according to your priorities, not everything at once, otherwise you're guaranteed to get stressed. Explore secondhand options; there are some truly incredible treasures just waiting for you. Take measurements before each purchase (you learn from your mistakes). Opt for multifunctional furniture to optimize space. Express your personal style rather than blindly following Instagram trends. Try DIY projects, even simple ones; they give you a huge sense of accomplishment. Add some plants; they bring so much life. Pay attention to your lighting because it really accounts for 80% of the atmosphere. And decorate gradually, without pressure.
Every object you choose, every corner you decorate, every plant you try to keep alive (even if it dies after two weeks, it's the thought that counts), is a small victory for growing up. And believe me, in five years, when you've moved ten times, it's this first apartment you'll remember with the most emotion. Because it was the first one that was truly yours.
This week, take a look around your apartment and list your true essentials. Create a realistic budget—not your dream budget, but one that actually fits within your budget. And start following inspirational accounts on Instagram or Pinterest to see what you really like.
This month, embark on your first shopping spree. Focus on textiles and lighting, the two things that most easily transform a space on a budget. Organize your storage smartly. And adopt two or three hardy plants to see if you can keep them alive.
In three months, your apartment will be at least 80% decorated. You'll be super proud of your place. And when you finally invite your friends over, they'll be jealous. Guaranteed.
Stay Connected for Inspiration
If you want to keep receiving decorating tips, great deals, and a weekly dose of fun (because decorating should stay cool), join the community Little Finder . Sign up for the weekly newsletter, follow the Instagram account @petitdenicheur for new products and decorating ideas, and check the Blog For many more guides and tips. 📧
There are plenty of additional articles that can help you: Small Space Decor For even more space-saving tips, Decorative Objects 2026 for current trends, Original Office Accessories If you work from home, and lots of other cool stuff.
For shopping, check out the Home & Decor Collection for original items, the Vases and Plant Pots for your plants, the Original Decorative Objects for those little things that make all the difference, and the collection Candles & Candle Holders for a cozy atmosphere.
Your first apartment is so much more than four walls and a slightly steep monthly rent. It's your first real home. The place where you'll laugh, cry, cook (and burn things), have your friends over, build your dreams, maybe even fall in love, and in any case, live your life.
It doesn't need to be huge. It doesn't need to be luxurious or have a view of the Eiffel Tower. It just needs to be YOURS. So yes, decorate it carefully. Choose each object intentionally. Create a space that truly reflects you. But above all, live it to the fullest. Enjoy every moment. Because in a few years, when you've moved ten times, climbed the ladder, maybe even bought your own apartment, it's this first tiny 20-square-meter studio that you'll remember with the most emotion.
Welcome home 🏠✨
Did this article help you? Share it with your friends who just moved!
#FirstApartment #SmallBudget #AffordableDecor #YoungProfessional #StudentLife #StudentApartment #StudioDecor #DecoratingBudget #DecoratingTip #HiddenFact
