Essential items to buy to furnish your first apartment
Many of us have already experienced it and some are yet to face this situation; Moving into your first apartment in this Fashion Capital is a thrilling adventure. The thought of living in Paris, with its rich history, art, and culture, can be both exciting and scary. To help you get started and make your first Parisian abode feel like home, we've compiled a list of essential items to steer everyday life in this beautiful city. And if you decide to invite your Parisian friends over, you are well-prepared.
Kitchen Essentials
- French Press or Coffee Machine: Parisians take their coffee seriously. Start your day right with a French press or a coffee machine for a café-quality experience at home.
- Wine Glasses and Opener: You're in France, after all! Enjoy the local wines in style with the appropriate glassware and a quality corkscrew.
- Cheese Board and Knife: Explore the world of French cheese with a proper cheese board and a dedicated cheese knife.
- Quality Cookware: Parisian cuisine is renowned for its deliciousness. Equip your kitchen with high-quality pots and pans to cook like a pro.
- Bakeware: You'll want to enjoy fresh from the oven for those delicious pastries and baguettes.
- French Tableware: Embrace the French dining experience with elegant tableware, including plates, bowls, and silverware.
- Cutting Board: For preparing your fresh market finds or whipping up a classic ratatouille.
Furniture
- Stylish Dining Table and Chairs: Invest in a chic dining set to host dinner parties with your newfound friends.
- Comfortable Sofa: A cozy couch is essential for relaxing after a day of exploring the city.
- Antique Finds: Paris is a treasure trove of antique shops and markets. Discover unique, vintage pieces to add character to your space.
- Area Rugs: Enhance your apartment's aesthetic with area rugs that complement your decor.
- Elegant Bed: Make sure your bedroom is a haven of comfort and style with a stylish bed and comfortable mattress.
French-inspired Decor
- Art Prints: Adorn your walls with prints of famous French artists or local Parisian art.
- Chic Curtains: Elevate your windows with stylish curtains, perhaps in classic French toile or linen.
- Fresh Flowers: A small bouquet of fresh flowers can instantly brighten your apartment.
- Bistro Table and Chairs: If you have a balcony or terrace, create your own little Parisian café experience.
Bathroom and Personal Care
- Luxury Toiletries: Pamper yourself with high-end French skincare and beauty products.
- Soft Towels and Robes: Wrap yourself with luxurious towels and robes after a relaxing bath or shower.
- Eiffel Tower Shower Curtain: Show your love for the city with an Eiffel Tower-themed shower curtain.
Electronics and Entertainment
- Adapters and Converters: Ensure your electronics are compatible with European outlets.
- French Language Resources: If you still need to become fluent, invest in language learning materials to help with your day-to-day activities. It can always help you converse with the local shopkeepers.
Books and Music
- Books on Paris: Explore the literary side of the city with books about Paris or by famous French authors.
- French Music Collection: Build a playlist of iconic French songs and musicians to set the mood.
- E-Reader: Save space and weight by investing in an e-reader for your literary adventures.
Storage Solutions
- Wardrobe Organizers: Parisians are known for their impeccable style. Keep your clothes well-organized with wardrobe organizers.
- Foldable Luggage: A space-saving solution for when you want to explore other parts of France or Europe.
- Under-Bed Storage: Maximize space in your apartment by using the area under your bed for storage.
Parisian Fashion
- Stylish Umbrella: Paris weather can be unpredictable, so invest in a fashionable umbrella.
- Trendy Fashion: Update your wardrobe with classic, timeless pieces that reflect Parisian style.
- Scarf Collection: Embrace the French art of accessorizing with a collection of scarves.
Personal Touches
- Travel Souvenirs: Display souvenirs from your travels around the city and beyond.
- Candles: Create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with scented candles in your favourite French fragrances.
- Indoor Plants: Plants add quality to your life. Add a touch of nature into your apartment with indoor plants, such as a Ficus or a monstera.
Basic and essential supplies to have on hand at any moment.
a. First aid kit
b. Basic tools (like a screwdriver and a hammer)
Grocery & Medicines:
When you're choosing a new apartment, it's always a good idea to make a note of the nearest supermarkets, department stores, and pharmacies. This way, you'll be able to grab all the supplies you need without having to venture too far from your new home.
Remember that your first apartment in Paris should reflect your personality and style. While it's essential to have some of these items, remember to add your personal touches to create a truly unique and welcoming space. Whether in a charming Montmartre studio or a chic Marais loft, your Parisian apartment should reflect your love for the city and your aspirations for your time in the French capital. Bonne chance et bienvenue à Paris!.