New Year, New Home Habits: Tips for Cozy and Efficient Apartment Living

As the calendar turns and we mark the beginning of a new year, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on our daily routines and envision improvements for our homes and lifestyles. For residents of Aqua at Lakeshore East and those seeking luxury apartments in downtown Chicago, cultivating efficient and cozy living habits can completely transform your experience. Whether you’re in a studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or a high-rise residence, adopting smart, sustainable habits enhances comfort, wellness, and enjoyment all year long.

1. Rethink Your Morning Routine

A peaceful morning sets the tone for the whole day, yet hectic routines can diminish that serenity. Start with small wins:

• Prepare your coffee station the night before for an easy, comforting start.
• Use natural light—Aqua’s floor-to-ceiling windows flood your apartment with daylight. Consider opening blinds first thing for a refreshing wake-up.
• If noise distracts you, use soft music or a white noise machine to set a calming mood.

Combining convenience and comfort gets your day off to a rejuvenating start.

2. Embrace Organization for Efficiency

Efficient living in the city means making smart use of space. Fortunately, Aqua apartment homes are designed with extraordinary closet space and walk-ins so you can maximize every square foot. Habits to keep you organized:

• Sort and store by season—utilize high shelves for off-season items.
• Invest in labeled storage bins for accessories, workout gear, and seasonal décor.
• Implement a daily decluttering routine: dedicate ten minutes in the evening to tidy up surfaces and floors.

Efficient spaces foster relaxation and make it easier to unwind at home, especially after a busy urban workday.

3. Curate Your Home’s Comfort Layer by Layer

Cozy doesn’t require clutter. Start with comfortable basics:

• Choose plush throws or pillows for the living area—select textiles in calming tones to enhance Aqua’s modern interiors.
• Layer area rugs over plank or tile flooring for both warmth and noise dampening.
• Use scent to create an inviting environment. Candles or diffusers with soft scents can make evenings more relaxing.

Take advantage of Aqua’s private curved balconies—create a serene escape with a small bistro table and favorite blankets, transforming your space into a year-round haven.

4. Implement Eco-Friendly Habits for Elevated Wellbeing

Aqua residences are LEED certified and feature energy-efficient appliances. Make the most of these features with new habits:

• Create a recycling and composting station near your kitchen.
• Conserve energy by setting the thermostat a few degrees lower at night.
• Use the in-home laundry with full-size washer and dryer for tailored load sizes to save both time and water.

These choices reduce your carbon footprint, supporting both personal and community wellness.

5. Master Meal Prep with a Modern Kitchen

Aqua’s residences feature sleek, full granite kitchens and stainless steel appliances that make meal preparation enjoyable.

• Make weekly meal plans to minimize food waste.
• Store healthy ingredients in visible containers for quick access.
• Batch-cook and freeze portions for convenient home meals after a day exploring the city.

Mornings and evenings become more efficient, and healthy habits are easier to maintain with the right setup.

6. Turn Your Fitness Goals Into Rituals

With over 80,000 square feet of amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, lap pools, running tracks, and even sauna and steam rooms, making wellness a part of your daily life is effortless at Aqua at Lakeshore East.

• Set a recurring workout block in your calendar—use the fitness studios or enjoy the year-round pool for low-impact exercise.
• Pair physical activity with nearby outdoor pathways, ideal for walks with your pet or meditative runs along the lakeshore.
• Progress tracking tools, like a simple journal or fitness app, can help you stay on course throughout the year.

7. Nurture Social and Community Connections

The new year is also about building connections. Aqua’s amenities—from rooftop lounges to resident events—offer endless opportunities for interaction:

• Schedule monthly gatherings in the media room, billiards room, or with a group fitness class.
• Meet neighbors at the Sky Garden Lounge or by attending live music performances from the Musician-in-Residence.

Intentional social habits foster a sense of community and belonging—the hallmark of Aqua living.

8. Emphasize Wellness and Relaxation

Making wellness rituals routine ensures longevity for your resolutions:

• Relax in the sauna and steam room post-workout.
• Dedicate a weekly spa hour using your modern bath’s ceramic surrounds.
• Practice mindfulness with a few moments of gratitude on your balcony, taking in panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

A tranquil home makes it easier to rest, recharge, and face each new day with purpose.

9. Care for Your Furry Friends

Pet-friendly floors and abundant green spaces surround Aqua, making it simple to integrate your pets into your wellness routine:

• Create a daily or twice-daily walk schedule, exploring the landscaped pathways and dog-friendly amenities.
• Designate a tidy spot for pet supplies within your home for easy access and apartment-wide neatness.

A well-planned pet routine improves both your lifestyle and your companion’s.

10. Personalize Your Space Often

Your home should evolve with you:

• Rotate artwork or decorative items seasonally for a fresh look.
• Add living plants for improved air quality and a touch of tranquility.
• Take advantage of high-speed internet to work or study with beautiful skyline backdrops.

Small changes keep your apartment feeling new and inspiring throughout the year.

Experience the Best of Urban Living This Year

Adopting these cozy, efficient home habits is seamless at Aqua at Lakeshore East. Each residence is thoughtfully crafted for comfort and function, whether you choose a studio, one-, or two-bedroom floor plan. Enjoy sweeping city and lake views, curated amenities, and a pet-friendly, wellness-focused community lifestyle—all in Chicago’s most iconic high-rise address.

Ready to reimagine your home habits this year? Experience the luxury and ease of life at Aqua at Lakeshore East—where every day feels extraordinary, and your goals have the perfect place to grow. Schedule your tour today, and see why Aqua is celebrated as downtown Chicago’s most vibrant community.