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Every time I move, I convince myself it’ll only take a weekend to have everything out of boxes and tucked away—maybe I’ll even get around to styling, too. Shocker: this never actually happens. Ahead of my most recent move (my second one in a single year), I decided to set some more realistic expectations for the process.
Phase one? Get the bare minimum decor out to just feel comfortable, so that I could kick my feet up on the couch and watch a movie (but I won’t because I know I need to install the shower curtain). For some expert advice, I went to Najah Ayoub, founding executive of Piece of Cake, the moving company known for its hot pink trucks and personalized service. Ayoub could go on for days about how to wrap fragile items but she’s also super knowledgeable about what comes after the truck leaves. “Moving into a new space can feel a little bare, especially while you’re still in the process of unpacking, but with a few key items it can instantly feel more like home,” she shares.
Ahead, in her own words, Ayoub shares the items that make a new-to-you home feel automatically cozy and tidy. The silver lining is, you probably already own most of these things anyway, so go ahead and unload them first.
A Tall Corner Plant
Rooted
White Bird of Paradise
$229
There’s something about a statement plant that makes a space feel instantly lived-in. Whether it’s a fiddle-leaf fig, snake plant, or a faux banana leaf tree, a tall plant in an empty corner brings warmth, dimension, and fresh energy into the room.
Oversized Floor Pillows
Pottery Barn
Noyer Handwoven Textured Floor Cushion Set
$399
The fastest way to make a space inviting is layers and texture. A chunky knit throw blanket or oversized floor cushions add softness, texture, and a relaxed, effortless vibe. Plus, they’re perfect for extra seating when friends come over before you’ve fully furnished the space.
Warm Ambient Lighting
Soho Home
Antero Floor Lamp
$595
Built-in ceiling lights can be harsh, so the quickest way to create a welcoming, styled atmosphere is with a warm-toned or dimmable floor or table lamp. It makes all the difference between “just moved in” and “this is my home now.”
Entryway Organization
West Elm
Pierce & Ward Wood Coat Rack
$249
Having an entry way organization system with a coat rack, shoe storage, a bench stool, and a small side table to drop off your keys and bag makes a big difference to feeling at home and organized.
Labeled Bins
The Container Store
Bin Clip Label (Pack of 3)
$10
Labeled bins for dry goods keep things from turning into a mess of open cereal bags or forgotten pasta boxes. It can make busy mornings run smoother, especially if you have children, and helps with the “what can I eat?” questions when they can see their snacks choices.
