Corporate housing is a type of short-term housing that’s regularly used by business professionals when they need to temporarily relocate or travel for work. When compared to a hotel, corporate housing is typically more spacious and comfortable and it often includes amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and additional living space. There are several benefits to furnished apartments, but that doesn’t mean that everyone’s experience will be the same. If you want to make the most out of your time in corporate housing, consider some of the following tips.
1. Unpack Everything
As soon as you arrive at your new corporate housing, take the time to unpack everything that you brought. Although this can seem trivial or cumbersome, taking things out of your suitcase can help you feel more settled and at home in your temporary living space. Additionally, unpacking your belongings allows you to organize your things and create a functional living environment. It also helps you to be more productive and comfortable during your stay.
Start by surveying your new furnished apartment. Check out the closet space, open the drawers, and see what’s behind the cabinets. Familiarize yourself with your new floorplan and think of how you want to arrange your things. Then, take everything out of your suitcases and find a new home for each belonging. It makes no difference how you unpack, as long as you get everything out of your bags and into place in your apartment.
2. Keep Things Clean and Tidy
Another way to make the most out of your corporate housing experience is to be proactive about cleanliness. Keeping a clean and tidy home has many benefits, even if it is just a temporary fix. Cleanliness and organization can help to improve your physical and mental health, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase productivity and overall happiness. A clean home can also help to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses, and can make it easier to find things when you need them. Although you might not actively realize these things, you’ll find that you have a better overall outlook and wellbeing when your living space is tidy.
3. Consider Bringing Your Own Linens, if You’re a Particular Sleeper
Although there will be bed linens, pillows, and blankets at your furnished corporate apartment, you may want to consider bringing along your own set if you’re a particular sleeper. Some people prefer to sleep on their own sheets for a variety of reasons. One reason is that they may find the feel and texture of their own sheets to be more comfortable and familiar. This can help emit a feeling of comfort and safety that doesn’t disrupt your sleeping schedule. Additionally, if you have certain allergies or are sensitive to some types of products, such as detergents or fabric softeners, having your own sheets can help with your transition. The sheets in corporate housing are usually great quality, but the familiarity of your own helps you maintain a sense of home while you’re away.
4. Bring Things That Remind You of Home
In addition to your own set of sheets, consider packing a few other things that remind you of home. If you’re coming from out of state, this might include things like certain snacks or foods, but you can also use aromatherapy to help ignite familiarity through your sense of smell. Some other items that may help you feel more comfortable and connected in your corporate housing include photos of friends and family, personal items like a favorite pillow or throw blanket, your favorite comfort clothes, some of your go-to books or an e-reader, a portable Bluetooth stereo, personal trinkets, or anything else that makes you feel like home.
5. Maintain Your Usual Routine
Routine is important because it provides structure and predictability to our lives, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. This is especially important when you’re moving into corporate housing and away from your day-to-day environment. Routine also helps us stay organized and manage our time more effectively as it assists with the establishment of good habits and allows us to make progress towards our goals. When you arrive at your corporate housing, take the first day to get situated and then jump back into your usual routine on day two. This might mean hitting the gym before work, going for a run, or finding a new local coffee shop to sort through your morning emails.
You should also try to get back to your usual sleeping habits. A consistent sleep schedule helps regulate our internal body clock, which is important for maintaining good physical and mental health. This can help to improve quality of sleep, boost energy levels, and increase feelings of wellbeing. Plus, you’ll find that you have a greater sense of accomplishment when you stick to your routine, which is important for self-esteem and confidence in a new city.
6. Try to Think Like a Local
Acclimating to a new neighborhood can take time and effort, but doing so is one of the best ways to make the most out of a new city. To help, try to think like a local. Introduce yourself to your neighbors and spend some time meandering around your new neighborhood. Consider joining local groups or clubs for some extra social interactions or find a nearby place to volunteer at during your free time. Additionally, check out the list of community events and put yourself out there. There are plenty of ways to integrate into your new space and enjoy your time, whether it’s for one month or one year!
7. Add a Few Houseplants
Finally, when you arrive to your furnished apartment, consider adding some houseplants. Houseplants have both physical and mental health benefits and can make your apartment feel cozier. Certain plants are easy to care for and help improve air quality, like snake plants or ZZ plants. They can also decrease stress levels, help boost concentration, and improve your quality of sleep. Aim to get a few small, easily transportable options so you’re not stuck moving giant plants when it’s time to say goodbye to your corporate apartment.
One of the best ways to ensure that you get the most out of your corporate housing experience is to partner with the right team and find a location that fits your lifestyle needs. When you transition into a place that makes you feel at-home, you’ll set yourself up for success. To ensure that you have everything you need during your stay, work with a corporate housing provider that offers plenty of luxury amenities in prime locations. Corporate Suites Network has several properties located throughout the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago. Our fully furnished short-term rentals provide residents with everything they need to maximize productivity without disrupting your day-to-day routine. All of our corporate properties in Chicago come equipped with high-speed Internet at no extra cost to you, carefully selected furnishings, and an array of luxury amenities. Call or email us today to learn more about Corporate Suites Network’s available properties in Chicago.