So, here you are. You’ve reached an important milestone. You’re moving out of home.
Feeling free, fabulous and oh-so-independent, you’ve decided to move to the Big City to become a sex columnist à la Carrie Bradshaw.
Or, your parents, having decided they are absolutely sick of your existence, have downsized and plan to travel the world via river cruise. And you, well, you’re not invited you freeloading, lazy arts student.
Nevertheless, you’re leaving the nest willingly or unwillingly. But, unlike Carrie Bradshaw, there’s no way you can afford a New York brownstone (or new season Manolos) on a columnist’s salary.
Interior designer Laura MacLean, of Mermaid Bay Interiors, moved out of home at 19.
“I’d come back home after backpacking for a year and my brother was really annoying. But I was totally unprepared. I’d spent all my money travelling.”
Here are eight things you can’t move out without. While there’s plenty of cheap places that have this sort of stuff on offer, you can always beg, borrow or steal these items from Mum, Dad or Vinnie’s (OK, the stealing bit was just an expression. Try not to steal).
If only we all looked this hot when moving.
Photo: Meathead Movers, flickr.com, unnder Creative Commons licence
1. A bed
This is a no brainer. We’ve all spent a night on the floor or the couch, or even a shrub (Drunk You convinced Sober You that it looked comfy) and we all know how your body will punish you for it the next day. Sleep is essential for your health, sanity and productivity, so unless you want to turn into a sleep-deprived villain, make sure you take your bed with you when you move out.
2. A comfy couch
While this may seem like a no brainer, most people get it wrong when picking out their first couch. It’s one of the biggest furniture investments you’ll make so it’s important to pick one that’s timeless, and importantly, fits the proportions your place.
“A classic club shape with straight arms is transitional enough to see you through all interior styles. Stick to a 2.5-seater max to make sure it fits anywhere,” MacLean suggests.
3. A fridge
Like a couch, you can’t skimp on the quality of your fridge (that is, unless you plan on hooking up with the repairman). Make sure you have the measurements of the allotted space for your fridge before you buy one, as it may vary depending on the size/style of your apartment or home. Also be wary of second-hand fridges as most won’t be covered by warranty.
4. Storage
It is essential to invest in storage solutions especially if you’re moving into an apartment as most don’t provide enough storage space. IKEA, despite its torturous maze-like store configuration, is the holy grail of storage solutions. Do like Tom and Summer and plan a romantic date at IKEA, topped off with Swedish meatballs. Look out for things like a chest of drawers, stand-alone wardrobes and even shelving.
5. A microwave
The microwave is looked down upon by many mothers, given its associations with microwave dinners and Easy Mac, but they really are an energy efficient way to prepare food, especially for the time poor. Google ‘microwave dishes’ and you’ll find everything from sweet potato chips to risotto. Make sure your microwave is covered under a warranty before you get cooking though.
6. Wall decorations
“Empty walls spell bland. Even if you don’t want pictures of your annoying brother watching over you while you sleep, this is your home,” MacLean says.
Moving out can be a sobering experience. You’ve left the comforts of home behind and now find yourself in an asylum-like box of white walls. Let your new home be a reflection of your personality and throw up some fun photos, prints and quotes.
“The bloke you bring home from the pub should be able to walk into your place and know who you are in a nutshell.”
Australian websites like Blacklist Studio, Pen Hearts Paper and Ahoy Trader have some of the coolest stuff for your walls. Remember to check with your uni or landlord before you give any of these a go.
7. A TV
Well, what else is there to do when you’re bored and lonely? Connect your TV with Apple TV and watch all the video content in the iTunes Store plus Netflix, or connect your TV with your laptop and you even have a DVD and CD player.
Whip out your old Singstar kit or Wii Tennis with some friends, and drunken hilarity will ensue. TV isn’t dead, it’s just different.
8. Seasonal updates
Trends come and go, so it’s important to stick to the modern neutrals – white, black and grey for your big ticket items – yet this doesn’t mean you can’t have fun.
“If you want to get a bit fancy and follow the trends, do it in moderation,” MacLean suggests.
“Get on the metallic wagon and buy a scented candle in brass. Or head down to the nursery and explore your fave indoor shrub. Indoor plants rock.”
Indeed, most of this season’s statement piece are copper, brass and marble, while indoor plants and succulents have made a comeback.
What is this list missing? Add your comments below.
