What men think about “Your place.”

Let’s get practical! What does a man think when he steps into your home? Most women are already aware of how their clothing affect their appearance to a man. (Sadly, some are quite confused in what men look for in fashion as well) But what about your apartment? Does it matter if you buy everything from IKEA? Does he care that you took months and years to perfect the color scheme and Feng-Shui? Just as in fashion, men will differ in what they like to see at a girl’s home. However, I can guarantee a few things you should definitely avoid!

Modern, IKEA, Sanitized look. It isn’t necessarily terrible to have modern art as furniture. White and black color schemes with primary color accents isn’t terrible either. However, what we want to avoid is creating a non-livable environment. Unless the man has OCD and loves sterile environments, this type of decor will only make him feel uncomfortable. He won’t be able to relax. He may even suspect you to be crazy or insanely neurotic.

Roseanne’s interior design. Seriously? Walking into your place should not be reminiscent of a 1980’s - 1990’s sitcom set! Plaid print, dingy carpet, and tacky fixtures are a big turn off. Rustic and vintage furniture is cool, but it isn’t vintage until 40 or so years have passed. If you are in your mid-twenties or thirties, your furniture should not have been manufactured during your childhood.

I just moved out of the dormitory look. For all you recent graduates, break the dormitory habits. Do you own a twin size bed? Do you have space efficient desk-bookshelf-storage-in-one furniture? Call your local thrift store and get rid of it please. Nobody wants to date a man-child/woman-child.

Friends. Ross and the dirty girl. Anyone who knows me in person knows that I watched the Sitcom FRIENDS fanatically. I own the entire series on DVD (Collectors Edition of course). There is an episode where Ross meets a very attractive girl (played by a Victoria Secret model), but her apartment is disgustingly messy. Don’t be that girl. No matter how hot you are, this will instantly disqualify you! I know this seems like a no-brainer, but remember that everyones idea of clean is different. You should ask your friends for honest opinions. Are you up to par?

Kitchen paradise! Even if you don’t cook often, I find a well stocked and furnished kitchen is a great asset for any home. If you date someone who loves to cook, they will fall in love with your place. They will probably become a visiting chef! If they don’t like to cook, they will definitely be impressed by your culinary expertise. This is more a personal note. I would like some feedback on what others think when they see a beautiful kitchen.

Today’s list of 5 is complete! Cheers! Have a great weekend.