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Many of our community members at Gramercy on the Park North Dallas apartments enjoy entertaining friends and family for the holidays. Along with the festivities, a bit of mess might follow, so we offer these five easy cleaning tips after the last bit of confetti and good cheer subsides.
Ditch Unwanted Gifts
The fact is that so many of us get unwanted holiday gifts — or those we just cannot use — but the sentiment can keep on giving if we just forward them along to someone else. If you get gift tags that allow for returns or exchanges, awesome. If not, consider a local charity that might find the need for those extra items, so you don’t have to clean around them.
Deal With Holiday Cards
Holiday cards add up quickly if you have a large circle, so you can use them to create crafts, recycle them, or save the most precious notes. One of the easiest components of post-holiday clean up by far is getting these small reminders out of the way so the deeper cleaning can begin.
Tidy Up Guest Rooms
Did anyone decide to stay the night in a guest room? After tending to the kitchen and living room spaces, the guest room will likely need a good cleaning. Wash the sheets, vacuum and do a light dusting to sanitize the area and be prepared for your next guest.
Remove Holiday Lights
If lights are adorning the windows of your Dallas apartment, getting all those pesky wires out of the way will streamline the cleaning process. Decide if you want to save them for next year, and store them or donate them appropriately.
Tree Take-Down and Removal
Once New Year’s Day has come and gone, your holiday tree is likely ready to be stored or disposed of. Be sure to find out about the neighborhood rules for curbside pickup for trees if you have a live one, as this is typically a free service to Dallas residents.
Find a New Home for the New Year at Our Apartments in Dallas
Gramercy on the Park is a comfortable community with an array of amenities and friendly neighbors. Contact us today to find out more about life in our Dallas, TX apartments.
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Making sure that when you are ready to move on from your apartment home it is in the same if not better condition as when you moved in is one of the major stresses of apartment living. To reduce this stress here are a few tips to help you keep your apartment clean and in tip-top condition so that if you move out you’ll have nothing to worry over!
Be Careful Moving In
This seems like an obvious one but you’d be surprised how easy it is to get distracted during a big move and accidentally scuff a wall or scratch the floor. Heavy furniture can scratch floors and damage your door and window frames as you move in. Take your time; move your possessions in carefully, slowly, and deliberately, using moving blankets and/or sliding cushions, to lay the groundwork for a spotless move-out. It is also important to be mindful of your moving boxes, despite seeming harmless boxes can cause damage too! Vigilance is key.
Maintain a Consistent Cleaning Schedule
While most people focus on the damage caused while moving in and out of an apartment home the daily upkeep is just as important! Neglecting your home can lead to major issues down the road, so it’s important to maintain a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning schedule so you don’t miss any big messes. It’s also important to monitor your appliances and utilities so you can see if there are any damage-causing concerns early on.
Be Mindful of Holes
Decorating your apartment home and adding your personal touches can be the most exciting part of moving into a new place. However, most communities are particular about what kind of holes you can make and how many. Read your lease agreement carefully before making any major design moves.
Keeping your apartment home clean and free of damage is a big part of having the best possible experience in your community, and we hope our tips can help you have a stress free move! If you have any questions about Dallas, TX apartments, our team of dedicated professionals would be happy to help you in any way possible. Contact us today!
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As the seasons change and we prepare for the holidays here in North Dallas, it’s the perfect time to think about redecorating your apartment. Whether you want to go all out for fall or you prefer to simply switch up a few key elements in your home, all you need is a bit of inspiration to get your creativity flowing. Keep reading to check out a few of our favorite fall decor ideas.
4 Fabulous Fall Decor Ideas for Your Apartment
Bring in Fresh Fruit
Fall is harvest season and one of the easiest ways to bring the outdoors into your home is with a beautiful fruit display. Arrange some seasonal apples in an eye-catching bowl to make a centerpiece for your entryway, coffee table or dining room table. It’s inexpensive, easy and a great way to add fall colors to your space.
Get Cozy
What’s the best way to create an inviting and positively cozy space within your apartment? Pile on the throw blankets! Add a simple rolled blanket to your guest bedroom, make sure each sofa and chair have a designated throw and place a seasonal quilt at the foot of your bed for extra warmth and comfort.
Play With Patterns
Fresh fruits and veggies don’t last forever, and that’s why we love the idea of crafting an array of faux pumpkins, gourds, and apples that can be used time and again. If you feel like getting crafty, you can play around with different patterns and color schemes to make a chic fall spread. Use paint, craft glue, glitter, and Modge Podge to decorate faux fruits and veggies from your favorite local craft store.
Spruce Up the Bathroom
Often neglected, your bathroom is one of the most highly trafficked areas in your apartment and will be used by most guests this fall season. So, be sure to give your bathroom decor a little TLC with a fall flower arrangement and accent touches. Just remember to bring in refreshing oranges, yellows, and reds that won’t clash with your current decor.
Fall Fun at Gramercy on the Park
Interested in more great apartment living tips? Visit the Gramercy on the Park blog and be sure to check out the available floor plans at our luxury North Dallas, TX apartments today.
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Bringing home a new pet is an exciting time for everyone in the family. However, helping your pet acclimate to his new home can be a challenge. Here are five useful tips to help your pet settle in quickly.
Have all the supplies you need.
Before you bring your new pet home, make sure you already have everything he will need to feel at ease. Be sure to purchase food, bedding, toys and anything else your pet requires.
Bring something familiar into the space.
If your pet had a favorite toy or blanket at the pet shop or in his previous home, bring it with when you bring him to your apartment. The familiarity will be comforting for your pet, helping him feel more secure.
Establish a routine.
Having a daily routine makes it easier for your pet to get used to his new surroundings. Establish a reliable routine for feeding, crating and playing with your pet so he knows what to expect each day. If you have to change your pet's routine, make the change as gradually as possible.
Introduce your pet to your apartment gradually.
Letting your pet loose in your apartment without any boundaries can be overwhelming. Instead of giving him access to the entire apartment at once, introduce him to only one room at first. The best place to start is typically the room in which he will spend the most time. Gradually expand your pet's access to the space until he has adapted to the entire apartment.
Feed the same food.
Before you bring your new pet home, ask the pet store or previous owner what food the pet has been eating. Continue feeding this food over the first few days, even if you plan to eventually switch to a different brand. Switching foods can cause gastrointestinal problems, making the transition to the new home even more stressful for your pet. When you are ready to switch foods, mix some of the new food in with the old and gradually increase the amount over time.
It can take some time for pets to get used to a new home. However, following the tips above will help you make the transition as simple as possible when you bring a new pet to your apartment in Dallas. To learn more about available Dallas, TX apartments, please contact Gramercy on the Park.
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Living in an apartment means hearing some noise from your neighbors. A quality apartment will generally be quieter than some that cost far less, but a bit of noise is just part of living close to other people. Fortunately, there are some things you can do on your own to keep the noise you hear from others and the noise they hear from you to a minimum.
Carpet and Rugs Are a Great Idea
Many of the apartments in Dallas, TX have carpet in them, so they're quieter than apartments that have wood or tile flooring. But if you like the look of hard floors, you can get beautiful area rugs to dampen sound and still have the type of flooring you prefer. It won't keep everything quiet, but it'll help reduce the sound you make when you walk around your space.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
One of the best things you can do when it comes to fixing noise from your neighbors is to get to know them. That way you're all likely to be more respectful of one another. If someone's making too much noise, you can go to their apartment and ask them to be a bit quieter. If you already know one another, that's much easier to do and you'll likely get better results, as well.
Hang Curtains and Use Soft Surfaces
When you have curtains on the windows, pillows on the couches, and similar types of soft objects in your apartment, these things all act to dampen sound. They work with the sound you make, and the sound other people make, as well. Not only will this help your neighbors get quieter enjoyment from their apartments, but you can enjoy your space more, as well.
By taking a look at all the great spaces we have to offer, you can get ideas of where you want to live and the way you would decorate your home. Not only can that give you ideas about the look you'd like to have in your new space, but it can help you find ways to make it quieter, as well. Rugs, pillows, curtains, and other options not only look nice, but they'll make it more comfortable for you and your neighbors, too.
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The colors in your apartment have a big impact on how you feel. They can change your mood in an instant. Do you want to feel energized, or would you rather feel relaxed? The right color scheme will make all the difference.
How do you know what colors to pick? Here are some clever tips for selecting fantastic color combinations that are popular now in North Dallas, Texas:
Combine Neutral and Accent Walls
Walls painted in a neutral, light-colored shade create the perfect backdrop for any decorating scheme just so long as your apartment allows a little paint here and there. You can continue the neutral theme throughout the room or add brightly colored accents. For a more energizing atmosphere, combine neutral colors with stronger colors by painting one or two walls in a room in a darker, bolder shade.
Add Colorful Plants
Plants are often overlooked as a way to bring pops of color into your home. In addition to the standard green plants, consider using plants that have multi-colored foliage. If you have a green thumb, flowering plants will also add extra charm and color to the room.
Consider Color Families
Painters and website designers think in terms of color families. You can, too, when decorating your apartment. Select tried-and-true color schemes like navy blue and white. Or experiment with your own combinations by using an online color-picker tool.
Start Small With Stronger Colors
If you're not used to using bold colors, start off with small pieces. Use jewel-tone colors in accent pillows, chair cushions, small wall hangings, and small area rugs. If you like the effect, you can go larger and try bold colors in bedspreads, larger wall hangings and large pieces of furniture.
Use the Same Accent Colors Throughout Your Apartment
You can give your apartment a pulled-together, coordinated feeling by choosing a limited number of accent colors and then using them in every room. You could have an orange vase near the entry and an area rug in the same shade in the living room. You could continue the trend with an orange shower curtain in the bathroom.
Unleash your decorating powers in our beautiful, luxurious Dallas apartments. Contact Gramercy on the Park to find out what's available now.
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Is it time to swap out the mattress in your Dallas, TX, apartment? You’ve probably heard the advice that mattresses should be replaced every seven years, but in truth, it depends upon the person and how they sleep. Mattresses, even high-quality mattresses, lose their shape over time and can start to harbor unwelcome matter like allergens that are tough to remove. So if you haven’t in a while, now might be a good time to check your mattress and think about replacements – and when it comes to replacements, you have a lot to choose from.
In fact, it’s almost overwhelming how many different mattress companies and brands exist nowadays, and so many choices can make it tough to pick out the right mattress for you. The following is a look at three of the most common types of mattresses and what preferences they are best suited for:
An Innerspring Mattress
If you prefer a bouncier feel, go for an innerspring mattress. Innerspring mattresses are those built with interconnected coils and are the more traditional type of mattress most people are familiar with. These mattresses are very durable and offer good support with just the right bit of bounce.
A Pocket Spring Mattress
If you prefer a nice balance of bounce and support, go for a pocket spring mattress. Pocket spring mattresses also have springs, but they are constructed independently of each other so as to allow better contour and pressure point support than the traditional innerspring versions. For either innerspring or pocket spring, you may opt for a fiberfill or foam outer layer at the top for a plusher feel.
A Latex Mattress
If you prefer a firmer base, go for a memory foam or latex mattress. These are the types of mattresses that you see in a lot of the newer commercials. Most of these will feature different layers of foam, which allows for a firmer, more supportive mattress than spring-based mattresses.
An Air-Filled Mattress
If you want to be able to change the firmness at will, go for an air-filled mattress. Air-filled mattresses, such as the popular Sleep Number, allow users to control the amount of air inside and thereby change the firmness as desired.
Looking to upgrade more than just your mattress? Maybe it’s time to contact our team to see the high-class Dallas, TX, apartments we offer and all the amenities our residents enjoy with us.
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Want to fit more reading into your day? Try these four tips:
1. Find books you actually enjoy reading.
One of the top reasons people don’t find they enjoy reading is they don’t read what they actually like. Instead, people often try to read the books they think they should be reading. This might include books on the top of bestsellers lists, heady academic books, or old dusty classics.
Instead, read what you like, and don’t be ashamed of it! If you’re not sure what you like, try a lot of different books. A good rule of thumb is to give a book at least a 20- to 30-page chance. If you’re not into it by then, find a new book.
2. Read at a certain time each day.
Like anything else, reading is a habit. So, if you can train yourself to read at a certain time each day, you’ll eventually become used to it, and the task will become rote.
A good time to start reading is in bed before you go to sleep. Reading is a relaxing, mind-calming activity, so it’s a nice thing to do to calm down the chatter in your brain before bed. It might even help you have a more pleasant sleep.
3. Always keep a book with you.
Find an easy-to-read book that’s small and paperback. It doesn’t have to be the book you’re reading at home. Keep this book in your briefcase or purse (or even in your back pocket).
Now, whenever you have some downtime, whip out your book and read a page or two. This might be when you’re standing in line at the post office or bank, on your commute to work on public transportation, or while you’re in the doctor’s office waiting room.
4. Learn to read faster.
If you’re someone who tends to read each and every word of a text individually, as if you were reading out loud to yourself, try a new way of reading that’s faster and more efficient.
Called “speed reading” by some, this technique simply has you reading in chunks. That is, instead of reading each and every word individually in your head, read three or four words at a time in your head. This technique can make reading more efficient and pleasurable.
Looking for new and comfortable apartments in Dallas, TX where you can kick back and read a good book? Call our office today to see which floor plans are still available.
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Now that summer is upon us, the days are a little longer and schedules tend to be more laid-back. It's not surprising that a lot of people like to take advantage of this time to enjoy a much-needed vacation. If you don't have travel plans, but would still like to have some down time, you don't have to look much farther than our Dallas, TX apartments for rest, relaxation and recreation opportunities. Here are some staycation ideas.
Be a Tourist in Your Town
You probably haven't had time to check out everything our great city has to offer. Now is the time to visit that place you've always been curious about — a museum, art gallery or historic landmark. Or hop on a bike and go exploring.
Live It Up
Treat yourself to a meal at that five-star restaurant you've been wanting to try, or visit a place where you regularly eat and sample something from the menu you've never had before. If you normally don't spring for dessert, go ahead and indulge this time — vacation calories don't count.
Take In Your Surroundings
Say "no" to what's on your to-do list for the day — cleaning, errands, whatever it may be. Instead, relax by the pool with a good beach read or spend a few hours curled up on the couch binge-watching your favorite shows on Netflix. The idea is just to take a break from your hectic routine and enjoy the simplicity of your surroundings.
Bring the Spa Home
Yes, you can create a spa-like experience in your spacious apartment home. Cover your furniture with plush blankets and light some candles. Add to the ambiance and enjoy some rejuvenating aromatherapy by diffusing your favorite essential oils.
Do Something Different
Take this time to do something that's a bit off-the-grid for you, like watching a 3-D movie or going kayaking. Try your hand at learning a new skill by taking a cooking or fitness class.
Our Dallas, TX apartments are an inviting place to enjoy a staycation. We're located close to parks and other attractions, and our apartment homes come with plenty of space to relax and entertain friends. Contact us to learn more about amenities and available floor plans.
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Our Dallas, TX apartments get a lot of sunshine, which means people who have green thumbs can grow some pretty awesome stuff on their balconies or inside their own homes. However, you don't have to have plant-growing skills to make amazing things happen. You just have to have a little patience and the willingness to read up on the plants you're trying to produce.
We've found a few plants that are hard to mess up (yet easy to integrate into everyday meals)!
1. Strawberries Love a Little Attention
Strawberries can actually be grown inside or on the balcony. As long as they get a little light and love, they're pretty happy. Remember not to water them too much, and make sure their soil has drainage outlets so they don't drown.
2. Kale Can Easily Grow in Pots
If you're looking for a healthier way to snack, consider making your own kale chips. Surprisingly, kale is a pretty hardy little plant, and it's quite pleased to grow in pots as long as it isn't subjected to super-hot temperatures. In other words, this might be the kind of plant you keep near the window in your Dallas apartment, rather than letting it grow on your balcony.
3. Chives Mind Themselves
There are a few herbs that tend to take care of themselves; chives fall into this category. You can use these little onion-inspired ingredients in nearly any recipe to liven up the flavor, but you don't have to spend hours tending to your garden to ensure they grow up correctly. Once they're planted, you just have to keep an eye on them to ensure they've got enough water (but not too much!), and they'll soon begin to work their magic. Cut them at the base when you're ready to make your next amazing entree, and the plant will regenerate as needed.
4. Cilantro Loves to Hang Out in Hanging Gardens
Store-bought cilantro can go bad pretty quickly, but if you grow your own, you'll have an infinite amount of bright, festive flavors. For best results, keep cilantro in a place where it has plenty of access to the sun.
Are you looking for a Dallas apartment that's got all the amenities any Texan could ask for? We invite you to stop by Gramercy on the Park so you can see our resort-style swimming pool, BBQ area, and 24-hour fitness facility firsthand!
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