If you need to stay in temporary housing while you are in between homes for your corporate relocation, you may feel like you don’t have much control over your situation. Luckily, there are many ways you can make a temporary stay feel like home right from the start.
I’m all about helping families feel as comfy as possible all throughout the move, and not put off their comfort until the last box is unpacked in the new home. Instead, I encourage people in relocation with the motto, “Make every moment as good as it can be!”
Here are some of the items my clients and I have used to cozy up our living spaces while waiting for a home to close. It would be worth your while to ship a few boxes of these treasured items ahead of time. That way, as soon as you arrive you can immediately surround yourself with your own unique items from home.
Decorations
- Framed photos of your family members, friends and pets; artwork from the kids; greeting cards from your spouse, friends, etc.
- Small throw rugs
- Plants from the local grocery store, which will detoxify the air and beautify the space; living things are always nourishing
- Fresh cut flowers
- A bright, colorful fruit bowl
Creature comforts
- Everyone’s favorite sheets and other bed coverings like pillowcases, quilts and mattress pads
- Your own towels
- Essential kitchen tools (for me, this is the power blender for my green smoothies in the morning)
- Journal and/or motivational or entertaining books for your nightstand
Scents
Essential oils or smells from a favorite candle can instantly change your mood. As well, fill your home with familiar cooking smells – if you had a Sunday night crockpot tradition, continue that. Though it’s tempting to eat out, especially if you have an expense account, remember the value of taking good care of your body during this stressful time.
I recently met with Carly McClure of BridgeStreet, and learned about their “serviced” (furnished) apartments – a refreshing alternative to the traditional extended stay hotel experience. With a simple phone call to your relocation advisor, you can request a BridgeStreet location and gain access to the nicest corporate temporary housing space I have ever seen. It was obvious from my conversation with Carly that everyone at BridgeStreet are committed to making their guests feel as comfortable as possible. Visit www.bridgestreet.com to learn more.
