How to be the perfect flatmate
University life often marks the first time many people move out and share a home with others. While living with flatmates can be a fun and rewarding experience, it takes consideration and cooperation to create a harmonious home.
Fortunately, living in University accommodation provides ample support from both staff and fellow students, helping you adjust to your new living arrangements. To help get you started, we asked some of our current residents for their tips how to be the perfect flatmate.
Talk it out
Hein, a resident of Lisa Bellear House, believes that clear and open communication is the cornerstone of successful shared living arrangements. “Before anyone begins living with somebody, they should talk about their expectations and standards of living," Hein advises.
Identifying potential issues early on is crucial, according Hein, “Then if there are disagreements, find a middle ground. This should also be done throughout the time living together.”
Respect personal space
Personal space is essential for everyone to unwind or focus on studies. Respect your flatmates' privacy by avoiding unnecessary intrusions into their rooms or personal belongings.
“I would avoid using my housemate’s stuff without their consent. Even if it’s groceries or basic items, I would still avoid using them,” Hein emphasizes.
Keep it clean
Living with flatmates means sharing the responsibility of maintaining clean and organized common areas. Regularly cleaning up after oneself and putting items back in their designated places not only fosters a sense of respect among flatmates, but also contributes to a better living experience for all.
“Roommates should work together to keep shared areas clean and tidy. I find that it can be very stressful if there isn’t a sort of cleaning roster in place because one person may end up doing more than others, which can build up resentment,” says Jay, a resident at Little Hall.
Image: Residents at International House using the shared kitchen
Keep it down
Noise levels can be a major source of tension in shared living spaces, especially when residents are studying. Be mindful of others' schedules and preferences when it comes to music, TV, or other potentially disruptive activities.
When asked about the top things a flatmate shouldn’t do, Hein said “playing music too loud”. Invest in a good pair of headphones to enjoy your entertainment so you don’t disturb others.
Make time for each other
Living close to others is akin to a family environment. Building bonds with your flatmates through shared activities creates a sense of camaraderie and trust. This could be a movie night, a shared meal, or any other activity that brings the household together.
“Being friendly will do so much for building friendships with your roommate(s) outside of the roommate relationship,” Jay notes.
University accommodation regularly organise social events as part of the Residential Life Program that help residents to get to know each other better.
Image: Hein (third from the left) with his friends at a Lisa Bellear House’s dinner event
Handle conflicts with care
Conflicts are a normal part of communal living. Vanya, a resident at The Lofts, suggests, “Clashes and differences of opinion may occur between two people; nevertheless, having a one-on-one talk and working things out as a team, solves half of the problems and makes the student apartment a pleasant place to live.”
Address issues early rather than avoiding them or waiting for them to escalate. Use a calm and friendly tone, active listening, and empathy to create a solution that everyone can live with.
By incorporating these tips into your daily life, you can create a positive living experience for both yourself and your flatmates. As Jay reflects, “I have gotten much closer with my roommate through living together. It's nice knowing that there's someone else home whom you can rely on to talk to at the end of the day.”
Image: Gayatri and Tanisha – flatmates who share a 4-bedroom apartment at The Lofts