DIY Halloween Decorations That Transition Into Thanksgiving

A pumpkin siting in grass alongside a fall leaf

It’s Fall 2021, and the transition from Halloween to Thanksgiving doesn’t happen seamlessly. Thankfully, some tricks can help you make your Halloween decorations work for Thanksgiving, too. Apartment living allows you to tackle your interior decor DIY-style. This will be where your creative side will step to the forefront.

Why DIY?

Mindfulness is a hot topic these days. It’s’ an effective way to maintain your mental well-being. If you’re thinking about taking up DIY projects as the new year approaches or just looking for something fun that’ll keep boredom at bay over winter break, consider picking up some skills.

Get Inspired By These Decor Ideas

Carefully Craft Your Halloween Wreath to Fit Thanksgiving Colors

A fall wreath is a great way to celebrate the season, but it can also require some effort if you want to transition it from being Halloween-themed to Thanksgiving-themed. You will need some red ribbon or fabric, white craft paint, and a brown paint pen. When you are crafting the wreath, leave enough material to drape it over the front door. This will allow you to quickly take off your Halloween wreath and replace it with a Thanksgiving one.

Add Some Greenery or Berries to Your Fake Spiders or Cobwebs for an Easy Transition

This is one of the simplest things to do, but it can completely change the look and feel of any decoration that you are using. Fake cobwebs or spiders can be made into simple Thanksgiving decorations with just some basic craft skills, along with access to faux greenery or berries.

Change Your Light Bulbs

While the lights themselves are what you will notice, changing your light bulbs is one of the most significant changes that can be made to transform any space from looking festive for Halloween and turning it into something more welcoming during Thanksgiving time.

Celebrate Fall 2021 With Trending Decor

Kick off your holiday celebrations by shopping at El Cerrito Plaza for all your arts and craft supplies. Head back to your apartment and start the creative process of building Do-It-Yourself fall decor. Get the whole family involved in some friendly competition to see who the next Picasso is.

Prepping For Fall 2021 Apartment Decor at Metro 510

Fall leaf variation

Falling leaves, the lighting of pumpkin spice candles, and cooler temperatures are evidence that the fall is finally here. Here are some crucial decor tips that’ll get your Metro 510 apartment ready for the fall.

Our Favorite Fall ’21 Trends

As fall approaches, it’s time to find the best decor for the season. Consider fall-related patterns, themes, and colors. Some of the decor trends for 2021 include using dried gourds, fresh leaves, and flowers and creating autumn tablescapes to add color and patterns to your apartment. Macrame is also popular.

How to Adapt These Trends for Your Apartment

When redecorating your apartment, dried gourds can be a brilliant idea for adding patterns and colors and bring a cozy and classic feel to the apartment. These staples of fall decor can be put in inwreathes or used as extra focal pieces. Pumpkins are just as popular as ever, and you can add traditional pumpkin spices to create the warm scent of fall.

You can also create a cozy fall tablescape with candles, placemats, and pottery. Pinecones, leaves, and acorns are also perfect for creating an eco-rustic feel to your apartment. Combine them with traditional autumnal flowers to add a patch of brightness, or incorporate long grasses for a point of interest in the corner of your room. Consider adding bistro lights, which add a casual touch ambiance to your apartment. Alternatively, a tall lamp with a warm orange bulb (or smart bulb) can incorporate additional color to make it even cozier.

Cozy Apartment for Fall 2021

Are you searching for a spacious apartment in Tampa, FL? At Metro 510, we offer the best apartments in a serene community. Schedule an appointment or call us at (510) 694-1809, and we can find you the best apartment near shopping centers and grocery markets like Duckweed Urban Market.

How to Survive the Heatwaves in your Metro 510 Apartments

outdoor deck with apartments on either side and a scene of the mountains

Another summer has arrived in El Cerrito, CA, and at Metro 510 Apartments. Here, we’ve come up with ways to beat the summer heat without running up the utilities. Keep this guide handy to get the most out of apartment living this summer.

Enjoy Our Outdoor Amenities

The hot weather during a California summer can create a difficult living situation, especially in an apartment. However, Metro 510 Apartments has some excellent ways to get around the scorching heat. Enjoy a delicious meal outside in our scenic BBQ area. Outdoor cooking helps to keep your home cool. Watch out for community events, as they present a great way to meet your neighbors, get outside and out of the heat. 

Rental-Friendly Ways to Cool Down Your Home

No one wants to run up their utilities, so consider turning off your AC when you leave. Our modern equipment will cool down your apartment quickly when you return. Consider using room dampening or darkening curtains. You can find various designs at most major retailers to fit the style of your apartment.

Local Attractions That Will Help You Keep Cool

Living at Metro 510 offers convenient access to El Cerrito Plaza, which is only a few minutes walking. Check out these fantastic shops, especially on the warmest days–you won’t find a cooler place during a heatwave! Another option would be to head down to Rosie The Riveter National Historical Park and enjoy the breeze from the ocean while engaging in the history of workers during World War II.

Keep these tips in mind to beat the summer heat and get the most out of apartment living during the hottest months of the year. Head over and discover Metro 510 Apartments and schedule a tour today!

Summer Fun and Entertainment at Metro 510 Apartments

people jumping into the ocean

Enjoy Everything Our City Has to Offer

Located in El Cerrito, CA, Metro 510 Apartments are ideal for enjoying the summer, especially surrounded by several restaurants such as Fat Apples. This charming bakery offers a wide selection of specialty coffee drinks, pies, and comfort food. There are also various fun nightlife options nearby, such as Mel-O-Dee Cocktails, a retro-style cocktail lounge that offers karaoke, and a sports bar, which can be an enjoyable place to spend your summer nights. And with El Cerrito located near many major California cities (such as Oakland, San Francisco, and Berkley), the opportunities for summer fun while living at the Metro 510 are plentiful.

Family-Friendly Weekend Ideas

Family outings during the summer can be fascinating, especially while staying at the Metro 510 apartments. The El Cerrito Plaza is a fun place to spend time with your relatives during the summer, especially when exploring all the shopping and dining options that it has to offer together. There are also many outdoor places to explore with your families, such as Harding Park, which offers a playground and picnic areas. And if nautical activities are something you prefer, oceanic sites such as Albany Beach aren’t that far away.

Hosting At Your Apartment

When hosting social gatherings at your Metro 510 apartment, there are many ways to entertain your guests. You can relax with your friends and family in the spacious on-site clubhouse and enjoy friendly games together. Or, you can grill and serve delicious food to your guests while hanging out at the scenic outdoor BBQ area located right outside the apartment building.

Metro 510 offers many ways to have fun and enjoy yourself, especially during the summer. And as the fundamentals of Apartment 101 suggest, inviting your friends and family over to partake in the amenities that your luxury apartment provides is an absolute must. Plus, your guests will also enjoy exploring the local neighborhood and indulging in all the exciting activities El Cerrito offers while visiting.

Getting A Good Night’s Sleep at Metro 510

White bed pillows and sheets

The best days start after a good night’s sleep! That is because quality sleep improves the quality of your life. It promotes energy, improves your mood, and strengthens your immune system. 

But for thousands of Americans, a good night’s sleep is only a dream! Instead of counting sheep each night, catch some Z’s by turning your El Cerrito apartment’s bedroom into a sleep sanctuary. 

Get a Comfortable Bed!

One of the key elements of a good night’s sleep is a good mattress. Some people like a softer bed, while others prefer a mattress that is firmer. If you do not know where to start your mattress search, these tips should help!

Purchase Quality Linens!

There is no better feeling than climbing into a bed that has fresh sheets and a cozy comforter. Try natural fibers like cotton and bamboo! These breathable fabrics are both eco-friendly and luxurious!

Add Soothing Scents!

Choose soothing scents like lemongrass and vanilla. Candles, automatic air sprays or essential oil diffusers will fill your bedroom with calming scents, helping you fall and stay asleep!

The Calming Sound of Water!

Add a calming water fountain to your El Cerrito apartment’s bedroom. The gentle sound of running water can help you drift off into a stress-free state and stay asleep longer. Small indoor fountains are compact and add to your décor. 

Keep It Clean!

Keeping your bedroom clean and organized can help you get a good night’s rest! Purchase storage organizers to help it stay tidy!

Turn off Electronics!

Be certain to turn off all of your electronics including your phone and laptop! 

Keep it Cool and Dark!

Be certain that your bedroom is cool and dark. Your internal clock (circadian rhythm) will respond to the darkness! Keeping your room at a temperature between 60 and 67 degrees will help you get a good night’s sleep.

These tips to creating a peaceful sleep sanctuary in your luxury Metro 510 Apartment on the East Side of New York.

Summertime Fun in El Cerrito

It’s time for some summertime fun in El Cerrito. Get out and explore all that the area and your luxury apartment in El Cerrito have to offer!

Go for a Bike Ride

There are several great bike trails near your apartment and your apartment has bike storage. So why not buy a bike at The Pedaler Bike Shop in nearby El Sobrante and pedal your way through the summer.

Take a Walk

Walking is the perfect way to enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise. From easy and flat, to moderate, and even some more challenging hikes with great views, there are some great options near our Metro 510 apartment in El Cerrito.

Beat the Heat

Beat the heat by visiting the El Cerrito Plaza this summer. Located minutes from your apartment, this plaza has restaurants, shops, and nail and hair salons. And, yes air conditioning.

If a bit of shopping therapy is needed, you can check out the Solano Avenue Shopping District. Where you will find shops, restaurants, boutiques, and ice cream shops. This is the perfect way to spend a hot summer’s afternoon.

Barbecue

Metro 510’s outdoor barbecue grills are an ideal way to wrap up a summer’s day. Gather with friends and neighbors and cook under the stars. If you need some ideas on what to barbeque this book, available on Amazon will provide you with tips on what to grill this summer.

El Cerrito Recreation Center

If you are still looking for fun things to do this summer, why not explore all the activities at the El Cerrito City Recreation Center. They have some great classes and events for all ages.

Get in Summer Shape

And since summer means shorts, swimsuits, and summer dresses, why not take advantage of the apartment community’s state-of-the-art fitness center to get back in summer shape.

Summer in your El Cerrito apartment is the time to get out and explore the area and to take advantage of the great amenities at your luxury, pet-friendly apartment.

Feng Shui Adds Harmony to Your El Cerrito Apartment

EL CERRITO APARTMENTAre you looking for ways to bring harmony and peace into your life? If so, and we can’t imagine who would say no, here are some tips on using Feng Shui style in decorating your El Cerrito, CA apartment.

WHAT DOES FENG SHUI MEAN?

Literally Feng Shui means “wind and water,” two opposite elements, but whose balance depends on the harmony between Yin and Yang. Feng Shui in interior design looks for harmony in furnishing, lighting, plants, positioning, colors, and materials.

HOW TO APPLY THE PRINCIPLES OF FENG SHUI TO YOUR APARTMENT

According to the principles of Feng Shui, in every home or work environment there are energies that interact and stimulate people who live in that space. They can foster courage, confidence, harmony, and peace. In China and Japan, Feng Shui discipline experts use Bagua, a special map to verify that the layout of the home circulates positive energy.

A Feng Shui décor has the following features:

  • Alternate Light and Dark Colors. For example, if your walls are light, your artwork or furniture should be dark.
  • Natural Elements. Plants, wooden elements, stones increase the energy flow of a room. But be certain to choose plants that have positive energy such as lucky bamboo, peace lilies, and orchards.
    • Fragrances.  The use of natural essences and special scents as positive propitiatory elements of positive energy. Try these Feng Shui “friendly fragrances: sage, lavender, vanilla, peppermint, rose, and jasmine.
  • Mirrors. Mirrors play an important part in Feng Shui design. They are considered to reject negative energy. Use the in the living room and entry, but never in the bedroom as they do not “favor” rest.

Applying these basic elements of Feng Shui design can make your Metro 510 apartment in El Cerrito a harmonious place to live.

Spring Cleaning at Metro 510

It’s Spring Time At Metro 510!

Spring cleaning is upon us. After a long isolated year of social distancing, things tend to build up. Clutter is the enemy. After stepping on Lego’s for the umpteenth time, (holding on to hot coffee) I started to feel my sanity slip. Time for a clean sweep to keep up positive energy and a healthier apartment living lifestyle.

The Mental Health Benefits Of A Clean Home

Let me count the ways in which a cleaner, more organized space, improves both your mood and quality of life. Clutter and chaos reign in a disorganized home. When you can’t find something or step on things that hurt, a temper can flare quick. A clean home :

  • Reduces Stress.
  • Lowers Blood Pressure.
  • Gives Less Headaches.
  • Let’s you relax better.
  • Helps you breathe easier.

Ways To Go Green With Your Cleaning

Green Cleaning has many benefits for both the environment and your health. Find Green Leaf labels or the recycle symbol on your cleaning products. Or use natural materials found around your house like:

  • Baking Soda
  • Salt
  • Vinegar
  • Lemon Juice
  • Borax
  • Heat / Steam
  • Essential Oils
  • … & Many More

Try this article out on Natural Cleaning Tips And Recipes.

There’s also some really great supplies you can get for Natural Cleaning Products on Amazon.

Cleaning services For Hire

If you have bad allergies it might not be a good idea for you to kick up all the dust and dirt that goes along with cleaning. So here are some great local cleaning services to consider.

Spring cleaning is not always easy, but it’s worth it. Just to get to come home to a clean home. Relaxing in peace and comfort. The weather is so nice in spring. Crack open a window (If allergies are not a problem) and enjoy a cool breeze and the smell of newness in the air.

Tips and Tricks to Stay Warm and Cozy in Your Metro 510 Apartment

At Metro 510 Apartments we want you to live in comfort and warmth through the winter weather. So here are some tips from our residents, how to stay warm in your apartment through unpredictable cold weather.

Winterizing Your Apartment

Cold air inside the home can cost you in the long run on those utility bills. Here are some ways to find and stop some of the air that may be coming in and making you lose some heat.

1.) Drafts –

Drafts can be anywhere but especially around doors and window. Use your hand to feel if any cold air is coming through. Gaps are common under doors so place a towel or draft protector there and stop losing heat.

2.) Curtains –

Curtains are great draft protectors when used with blinds for double protection.

3.) Close Doors –

Close doors to rooms not being used. It’s easier to heat up a room rather than a whole apartment.

Keeping yourself warm

There are many ways to heat up your person. From using Metro 501 Apartment amenities to these simple fun ways.

1.) Spice Is Nice –

Spicy food and drinks are a great way to heat up and get warm. Yummy too. Get heartburn? Vinegar is a great substitute.

2.) Exertion –

Working out is a great way to heat up, but not the only way. Snuggle up and get the blood pumping with a scary movie.

3.) Family Fun –

A game night of Twister or Charades is great fun and games. Every laugh can burn 3.5 calories. So get silly and enjoy spending time with the ones you love.

4.) Eats and treats –

Treats cooked up can warm your home and your body. Stews and soups are perfect cold weather food.

Thank You!

Thank you for choosing Metro510 Apartments to live. We’re glad you’re here. If you have any more tips let us know. Stay warm and cozy!

New Year, New Possibilities at Metro 510

A new year provides new opportunities and possibilities for your home decor, personal goals, and apartment goals! Make 2021 a year of positive change!

Happy New Year! January is the beginning of many new resolutions for 2021; whether you choose to make healthier lifestyle changes, take a new class, or learn a new skill, there are many options available for you!

Personal Goals to Set for the Year

Are you looking to expand your current skills, hobbies or learn something new? Do you crave more time with family and life balance? Achieving a deeper sense of balance and enjoying the little things in life means a lot in 2021. Try taking an online yoga class or practicing meditation. If you are adventurous, take a hike on a local trail or explore outdoor spaces.

Apartment and Home Goals

Organizing your space and making room for new, more trendy furniture might be your goal this year! Spring is not far away, and there are many great options to liven up your apartment, including fresh plants and flowers. Just a few changes can make a big impact on the quality of your living space!

2021 Apartment Decor Trends

Home decor 2021 trends will provide you with some excellent ideas for your living space. Following new and upcoming home decor trends can be a lot of fun and provide you with a wealth of creative ideas for your apartment. There are plenty of great local shops and boutiques to find a few accents to enhance your space as well.

Starting a new year is exciting and marks the start of many new and positive changes! Make your 2021 more fun and relaxing with a comfortable home at Metro 510! We offer excellent quality living spaces and amenities for all your lifestyle needs at home and in the community!