Not a pro here but just wanted to wish you luck. It sounds like a difficult transition but I do hope there will be happiness ahead for you Elisabeth. Hopefully some pros will weigh in soon!

Thank you so much, Kristine!! I appreciate it!

You are so welcome. I hope some pros will drop by soon to give you advice.

Your wall colour is already light and you don't want to be installing/changing light fixtures in a rental. You'll need quite a few floor lamps and table lamps to brighten up the space. Thrift stores are great places to find these for a reasonable price, and if you don't like the metal finish, it can be painted. Art work too, and things like baskets, pillows and throws that can cosy up a place on a budget.

Looks like you have a good size window. Be sure to keep the glass clear of any curtains and put a comfortable chair there to enjoy the light.

Add some bright colours that you enjoy.

Hoping you find peace.

I have very often changed light fixtures in rentals and as long as you don't damage any thing why not just replace when you move out. As for the rest get some art on the walls some pillows and a rug.

(((Hugs))) hubby and I moved from a gorgeous, large house full of love, laughter, and our children, to his recently widowed mother’s basement while we build our next house as brand new empty nesters. We’ve been here about 10 months and it’ll be at least another year. We had all figured on 2 years, and it’s a good and helpful situation for everyone involved, but... it’s my mother in laws basement. So, I can fully comprehend your grief over this changed situation. Anyhow, things that have helped are brighter LED light bulbs, being able to get a cross breeze happening periodically (this is a walk out basement thankfully), and making a concerted effort to get out in nature on a very regular basis. That, and recognize a grieving process for what it is and allow it. Comfortable furniture with pleasant textures is also something I find helpful.

Thank you so much, skmom! They say everything is temporary, right? I really appreciate you sharing your story. I can’t even begin to fathom leaving a house where I raised my children. Sending hugs your way. I’m sure the new home will be worth the two years living in your mother in law’s basement. I will be thinking of you a year from now as my lease is set to end; you will be the queen of a new castle!

Just wanted to send good wishes in your new life. A rug is a good start to making things cozier.

Then pillows, throw, etc. When you are home by yourself light a candle or two. I find doing that seems to help make a nice atmosphere, and somehow feels like you are not alone.

Thanks for your kind words Elisabeth! I hope this time in your new apartment is full of strength and healing for you! Life is all about seasons isn’t it.

You could try updating light fixtures and you could see if you are able to paint the space. If you're unable to paint you could try getting a rug to integrate the color of your furniture with the wall color.

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Congratulations on what sounds like a wise decision. It may take you a while to realize all the positive elements, but they are there. Go back to World Market and pick up some pillows and one or two throws. Get a couple of lumbar pillows in colors/patterns you love for the rockers. Put one rocker near the window and the other one in a good location for watching TV. Add floor lamps beside them both to make the areas into nice reading places or where you can get on the laptop or phone and chat with friends. Decide where you want to put a dining spot, and then buy a rug large enough to fill the remaining open floor space. Adding 4000K LED light bulbs will add a daylight feeling that will be most important in a basement. So will bright, fun, colorful art.

Adorable apartment and best wishes on your next phase of life!

To brighten up your space, paint the walls and ceiling Benjamin Moore Decorators White flat. It's a bright white with blue undertones and it's amazing what it does. Add color with large art and colorful accessories. You already have good basics to build on.

Then use large mirrors in strategic locations facing your source of light. It will trick your light and brighten up the room. If you measure and do a thumbnail sketch with dimensions, I would be happy to help. (Take overall dimensions first and then go all the way around measuring continuously.)

I also have changed light fixtures in rentals, just run it by your landlord and please get an electrician. A good track lighting with small fixtures will do the trick and some manufacturers have fans that clip on the track.

Luxe layering will make it inviting and cozy. Don't skimp on a beautiful area rug and pillows and throws. I do incredibly well with very high end area rugs on craigslist and then bring it directly to a good rug cleaner/restorer before bringing it in.

Here's a good article with the best advice: https://blog.froy.com/how-to-brighten-a-dark-room-in-8-ways/

Thank you ALL for your input on my post. I ended up finding a bigger, but older, apartment, on the 2nd floor, that has way more light. It’s going to take some work to make the space cute, but I am up for the challenge! I’m going to post another discussion with photos and the layout. Thanks again for your kind words and input. Focusing on making my future home cute is keeping me focused and getting me through the difficult times. ❤️

Hi all! The new post is live!! Thank you again for your support!

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/6200939/furniture-placement-in-an-old-apartment