The Cozy Apartment Project: Finding Home in Small Spaces

Moving from a house into an apartment sounded simple enough at first—but it’s been one of the biggest lifestyle adjustments I’ve ever made. I grew up in a house with plenty of space, a backyard to step into anytime, and the freedom to decorate however I wanted. When I got married, my husband and I moved into our first place together: an apartment.

At first, it felt exciting—a fresh start. But it didn’t take long to realize just how quickly an apartment can fill up, especially when you’re bringing years’ worth of belongings from a bigger home into a smaller space. Add on the restrictions of renting—no drilling the walls, no major renovations—and suddenly making it feel like “home” didn’t seem so easy.

Three years later, I had to be honest with myself: I didn’t feel joy in my own home. It felt more like a place we were “staying” than a place we were living. That realization pushed me to make a change—not just for me, but for my family. We now have two small children, and I want them to grow up in a space that feels cozy, welcoming, and truly ours, even if it’s temporary.

Apartment Home Makeover Plan

So, my husband and I have decided to be intentional about transforming our apartment into a

home we love. Here’s how we’re approaching it:

1. Renter-Friendly Projects
   We’ll be trying out creative, landlord-approved solutions to personalize our space—like peel-and-stick wallpaper, removable hooks and shelving, and clever storage hacks.

2. Smart Shopping
   We’re investing in a few key pieces (and letting go of what no longer works) to maximize function without overcrowding. Think multipurpose furniture, stylish storage bins, and cozy textures like rugs and curtains.

3. Trial and Error
   Not everything will work—and that’s okay! We’ll share what has truly made a difference in our space and what turned out to be a waste of money or effort.

4. Creating Joyful Corners
   Even small changes—like a cozy reading nook, a family photo wall, or adding greenery—can instantly make an apartment feel more like home.

Why This Matters

At the end of the day, home isn’t about square footage or owning vs. renting. It’s about creating a space where you feel at peace, where your family feels safe and comfortable, and where everyday moments are filled with joy.

That’s what this journey is all about for us.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your space or struggled to make an apartment feel like home, I’d love for you to follow along. We’ll be sharing renter-friendly ideas, honest reviews of what works (and what doesn’t), and hopefully some inspiration for your own home—no matter its size.

Here’s to turning any space into a place you truly love.

From Our Family to Yours

~The Deloney's