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Everyone has their theory on when it’s the “right” time for couples to move in together. But, whether you’re trying to save on rent or you’re newlyweds, this relationship milestone is never taken lightly. It’s a time of love and compromise as two people go through the trials and tribulations of cohabitation. Oftentimes, it’s not necessarily a tale about how one becomes two, but the challenge of creating a space for two that was meant for one. To help guide you through these epic moments of love gained and favorite shirts lost, we’ve partnered with IKEA® to provide tips and tricks (taking inspo from their 2017 Stress-free Organization Guide) on how to make a tiny space work for those taking the leap into a new relationship/roommate situation.
Although daunting, the moving-in process will bring you closer together quite literally and figuratively. And with the customizable and easily adjustable IKEA® ALGOT system, your experience is sure to be more of a comedic adventure than a horror story. Scroll on to see our story unfold as we recreate a fictional retelling of how real life couple Alicia and Michael moved in together. That’s right, we’re making them relive their own move-in experience with this straight up re-enactment.
SETTING THE STAGE: My Space, My Way
Meet Alicia. A couple of years ago, she won the apartment lottery and snagged a small, yet humble space with rent control… all to herself. Gone were the days of casual roommate reality-TV viewing parties and late-night catch-up sessions, but along with that went unclaimed dirty dishes, unexpected overnight guests and late rent checks. There’s nothing like having your own space for the very first time. Plus, she got to paint, decorate and make it a place of her very own.
What more could a woman want? All she needs is right here. Proud of her carefully curated wardrobe and limited on space, Alicia opted for the exposed ALGOT system with two panels. It was just the thing for storing all her essentials.
The sliding drawers are great for storing her smaller items, such as t-shirts, camisoles and other offseason pieces.
With her space on lock, Alicia loved to spend lazy Sunday afternoons snuggled up with a book, living her best life.
COUPLES MOVE-IN 101: When Me Becomes a We
Enter Michael. While he loved his bachelor pad, his studio could not compete with her cheery one-bedroom. They both had their doubts about seamlessly integrating his stuff into her well-established space. That’s why they looked to the sage advice from this B+C x IKEA® Couples Move-In 101. ;)
TIP 1: Add More Storage Space (Together)
This one should be a given. Moving in means twice the amount of stuff, so you’ll definitely need some additional storage, like this BRIMNES Glass Door Cabinet. It’s slim and space saving, while packing a storage punch. Not to mention, the glass door is a great way to display your most colorful wardrobe pieces.
AND not to mention — the first *real* test of moving in is successfully building furniture together.
After all, teamwork is dreamwork.
Tip 2: Make Room Where You Can
Budgets may not always be able to support an entire storage makeover; that’s why we especially love an adjustable storage space. Changing up a system like the ALGOT is super easy and affordable. Adding new baskets and shelves is a total breeze and helps increase storage capacity.
Tip 3: Simplify Your Life
Before automatically filling up your closet, sort through your clothing to keep only the essentials. Whether or not it’s a democratic decision is between you and your partner.
Tip 4: Make a His + Hers Get-Ready Station
While sharing space is essential in cohabitation, it’s still important for each partner to retain some sense of ownership over their own home. That’s why his and hers get-ready stations are key. Prepping stations are super handy, making for a creative and fun way to display accessories. They also create an autonomous safe place for individual expression.
Serving as a DIY valet, a designated space for your everyday essentials allows you to save time on your morning prep.
You’ve got amazing accessories, so why not let them shine?! The ALOGOT’s mirror, hooks and basket system creates a one-stop shop for all of your accessory needs. Getting ready was never this easy!
Tip 5: Prioritize Your Items
Since space is at a premium, compromises are going to have to be made. Sometimes, having a dozen pairs of shoes at our disposal is no longer a reality. Pick items based on what you use and wear on a daily basis versus items that are seasonal or for special occasions. These SKUBB Boxes are great for storing items that didn’t make the cut. They keep your space looking clean, while the handles make them easily accessible, so they’re never too far out of reach.
Tip 6: Decorate Together
Whether you’re moving into their space, or they’re moving into yours, you want to make sure that both parties are invested in the decor. Select artwork and photographs that speak to both of your personalities and be sure to take time to make your house a home.
Tip 7: Enjoy Time Together
Now that you’ve built a new home together, take time to enjoy it. Share your hobbies with your partner, while creating new traditions. Cozy, lazy Sundays just got twice as good.
What are your tips for moving in? Show us your creative solutions for shared spaces on Instagram by tagging @BritandCo and #iamcreative.
Production + Styling: Lindsay Saito + Karen Pham
Photography: Brittany Griffin
Modeling: Alicia Goad + Michael Goad
