Creating a Home Away from Home: Driver Housing Tips

Transform temporary accommodation into comfortable living spaces that support your well-being.

Introduction

If you are a professional driver relocating from Global to Romania, you are not just changing jobs and routes. You are building a new life in a new country. Your cab, your depot, and your short-term apartment will become your daily universe. That is why creating a home away from home is not a luxury - it is essential for your health, focus, and family stability.

Romania is drawing more international drivers every year thanks to competitive EU-level opportunities, lower living costs compared to Western Europe, and expanding logistics hubs. But the transition takes planning. How do you choose a neighborhood when you will be on the road most weeks? What housing features matter most when you come back exhausted from a long route? How do you handle EU regulations, CPC training, Romanian road transport laws, and still keep your family life steady?

This guide gives you practical, step-by-step advice. We will cover housing strategies, family logistics, salary and cost-of-living expectations, visa and license requirements, cultural integration tips, and proven checklists to set up a comfortable base quickly. Whether you are a long-haul CE driver running international lanes, a city delivery professional, or a D-category passenger driver, use this as your playbook for making Romania feel like home.

Why Romania?

Romania sits at the crossroads of Central and Eastern Europe with fast access to Hungary, Bulgaria, Moldova, and the Black Sea. Several factors make it a strong base for drivers from Global:

• EU Membership and market access: Companies in Romania operate across the EU single market, giving drivers access to international freight and passenger routes and modern fleets.
• Lower cost of living: Compared to Western EU countries, rent, food, and services are more affordable while salaries for international driving remain competitive.
• Growing logistics hubs: Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi are expanding as road transport and warehousing centers. The western corridor toward the Hungarian border is particularly active.
• Developing road infrastructure: Motorway kilometers and ring roads have increased, and connectivity to major crossings like Nadlac, Giurgiu-Ruse, and Calafat-Vidin supports cross-border traffic.
• Quality of life: Vibrant cities, nature in the Carpathians, and a friendly culture. Stable internet and e-services make daily life easier.

For drivers specifically, Romania offers a mix of domestic and international work, with international lanes paying the highest overall compensation when including per diems and bonuses.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transport and logistics sector is diverse. Here are the most common driving roles and where to find them:

International trucking (C/CE)

• Typical routes: Romania to Germany, Italy, France, Benelux, Poland, and the Balkans.
• Schedules: 3-6 weeks on, 1-2 weeks off is common for long-haul rotation. Some companies offer 2-on/1-off or weekly returns if routes and depots allow.
• Employers: DSV, DB Schenker, Kuehne+Nagel, DHL, International Alexander, Dumagas, Dolo Trans Olimp, Routier European Transport, Vio Transgrup, Aquila, Gebruder Weiss (Romania operations), and many mid-sized Romanian carriers serving OEMs and retail.
• Vehicle types: Standard curtainsiders, refrigerated trucks, tankers (ADR), car carriers, and container chassis.

Domestic long-haul and regional distribution (C/CE)

• Lanes: Intercity routes linking Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi, Constanta, Brasov, and Oradea.
• Cargo: FMCG, construction materials, automotive parts, e-commerce freight feeding regional depots.
• Employers: National carriers, 3PLs, and large retailers with in-house fleets.

Last-mile and parcel delivery (B/C)

• Work: City-based, day shifts with fixed routes and frequent customer contact.
• Employers: Fan Courier, Sameday, Cargus, DHL Express, UPS partners, Amazon partners.
• Pros: Predictable hours, easier to maintain family routines, less time away from home.

Passenger transport (D)

• City buses: Employers include municipal operators like STB in Bucharest and private regional companies.
• Intercity and international coaches: FlixBus partners, Atlassib, and other private carriers.
• Pros: Fixed lines and schedules, potential for overtime.

Specialized certifications and niches

• ADR tankers and dangerous goods distribution.
• Specialized heavy haul and oversized loads.
• Temperature-controlled supply chains.
• High-value cargo with enhanced security procedures.

Demand is consistent, especially for CE drivers willing to run international routes. ADR, CPC, and strong tachograph compliance will place you at the front of the queue.

Legal Requirements

Your pathway depends on your citizenship and where your current license is issued.

If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen

• You can live and work in Romania without a work visa.
• Register residence with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) if staying more than 3 months.
• Exchange your EU driving license in the future if it nears expiry or if you prefer a Romanian license, but you can work with your valid EU license and CPC.

If you are a non-EU citizen (Global)

Romania uses a work-permit-first model. Typical steps:

1. Employer obtains a work permit (aviz de munca) from IGI.
   • Documents often include your contract/offer, proof of qualifications, criminal record certificate, medical certificate, and proof the employer can hire non-EU workers.
   • Processing: usually up to 30 working days, sometimes longer.
2. Apply for a long-stay employment visa (D/AM) at a Romanian consulate.
   • Submit the work permit, employment contract, passport, health insurance, proof of accommodation, and means of support.
   • Processing: commonly up to 60 days.
3. Enter Romania and apply for a residence permit.
   • Apply at IGI within the visa validity. You will provide biometric data and get a residence card.
   • Processing: often 30-90 days. You will receive a CNP (Personal Numeric Code) which you will use for taxation and public services.
4. Family members
   • Your spouse and children can apply for family reunification visas after you have legal residence. They will need proof of relationship, accommodation, and means of support.

Always check the latest requirements on the IGI website before applying, as procedures and documents can change.

Certification & License Recognition

Your ability to start quickly depends on how your license and professional qualifications transfer.

Driving license exchange or recognition

• EU license holders: Your EU C, CE, or D license is valid in Romania. You may keep your home-country license while working, but if it is close to expiry or you plan long-term residence, consider exchange at DRPCIV (Romanian Driver Licensing Authority). No re-test is typically required.
• Non-EU license holders: You will generally need to exchange your license for a Romanian one after you obtain legal residence, particularly for professional categories.
  • Typical documents for exchange: passport, residence permit, original foreign license, sworn translation, medical fitness certificate from an authorized clinic, possible psychological evaluation, standard photos, and fees. In some cases, a certificate of authenticity from the issuing authority may be required.
  • Processing times vary by county. Plan for several weeks.

CPC - Certificate of Professional Competence

• EU drivers with valid CPC: Your CPC is recognized across the EU. Carry your driver qualification card or code 95 on your license.
• Non-EU drivers: You will need initial and/or periodic training in Romania to obtain CPC recognition. Periodic training is 35 hours every 5 years. Approved training centers operate in major cities.

Digital tachograph driver card

• Issuing authority: Autoritatea Rutiera Romana (ARR).
• Requirements: identity documents, residence in Romania, professional license categories, photo, and fee.
• Processing: commonly 1-2 weeks. Apply early so you are ready for your start date.

ADR certification (dangerous goods)

• If you already hold an ADR certificate from an EU country, it is generally recognized.
• If not, attend ADR training at an ARR-authorized center and pass the exam. Base, tank, and class-specific modules are available.

Medical and psychological fitness

• Professional categories in Romania require periodic medical and sometimes psychological checks. Clinics near driving schools and depots offer packages. Keep certificates current to avoid interruptions.

EU and Romanian Road Transport Rules You Must Know

• EU driving time and rest (Regulation EC 561/2006):
  • Maximum daily driving: 9 hours (10 hours twice a week).
  • Weekly driving limit: 56 hours; fortnightly: 90 hours.
  • Breaks: 45-minute break after 4.5 hours of driving (can be split 15+30).
  • Daily rest: 11 hours (can be reduced to 9 up to three times between weekly rests).
  • Weekly rest: regular 45 hours; reduced 24 hours with compensation.
• Tachographs (Regulation EU 165/2014): Use, manual entries, cross-border declarations, and smart tachograph requirements. Keep cards updated and report lost/stolen cards immediately.
• Working time directive (Directive 2002/15/EC): Limits on total working hours including loading/unloading, waiting time, and admin.
• Posting of drivers (Directive 2020/1057): If posted to other EU states, ensure correct declarations and pay conditions.
• Romanian-specific:
  • Rovinieta (road tax): Mandatory for national roads. Purchase online or at fuel stations. Heavy goods vehicles have category-based fees.
  • Additional tolls: Danube crossings like Fetesti-Cernavoda on A2 (peaj), Giurgiu-Ruse bridge, and Calafat-Vidin bridge have separate tolls.
  • Winter equipment: Winter tires are mandatory when roads are covered with snow/ice. Snow chains may be required on mountain sections if signed. Vehicles must carry a reflective vest, warning triangle, and fire extinguisher.

Salary & Benefits

Salaries vary by role, route, experience, and employer package. Approximate figures below use 1 EUR ~ 5 RON for quick conversion.

International CE drivers

• Net monthly total (base + per diem + bonuses): 1,400 - 2,400 EUR (7,000 - 12,000 RON), with higher earnings for ADR tankers, specialized loads, or demanding rotations.
• Structure:
  • Base salary: 2,000 - 3,500 RON net.
  • Per diem (diurna) and travel allowances: The majority of the take-home. Portions may be tax-exempt within legal daily limits. Policies change, so confirm the current cap and tax treatment with HR.
  • Performance bonuses: Fuel efficiency, damage-free delivery, on-time KPI, weekend/holiday work.

Domestic long-haul and regional distribution (C/CE)

• Net monthly total: 800 - 1,400 EUR (4,000 - 7,000 RON), depending on nights out, overtime, and load count.

Last-mile delivery (B/C)

• Net monthly total: 600 - 1,000 EUR (3,000 - 5,000 RON) plus incentives per route or parcel volume. Day shifts may appeal to drivers prioritizing family time.

Passenger transport (D)

• City bus drivers in major cities: 800 - 1,200 EUR net (4,000 - 6,000 RON) plus overtime.
• Intercity/international coach: 900 - 1,400 EUR net (4,500 - 7,000 RON) based on mileage and nights out.

Typical benefits

• Paid accommodation during training or onboarding (varies by company).
• Per diem during international trips.
• Health insurance contributions; some companies offer private clinic packages.
• Uniform and PPE.
• Referral bonuses.
• Paid CPC periodic training and ADR renewals for long-term employees.

Always look at the total package, not just base salary. Ask specifically about per diem policy, nights-out allowances, overtime rates, and rotation schedules.

Cost of Living in Key Romanian Cities

Romania's costs are friendlier than most of Western Europe, but city-to-city differences matter for housing.

Rent per month (typical, unfurnished or semi-furnished 1-bedroom)

• Bucharest: 400 - 700 EUR (2,000 - 3,500 RON) depending on neighborhood and building age. New builds near ring roads cost more.
• Cluj-Napoca: 350 - 600 EUR (1,750 - 3,000 RON). Demand from tech and students keeps rents high.
• Timisoara: 300 - 500 EUR (1,500 - 2,500 RON). Good value near logistics parks.
• Iasi: 300 - 450 EUR (1,500 - 2,250 RON). Family-friendly and budget-friendly.

Utilities and essentials

• Utilities (electricity, gas, water, garbage) for a 1-bedroom: 80 - 150 EUR (400 - 750 RON) monthly, more in winter if gas heating.
• Internet: 7 - 12 EUR (35 - 60 RON) for high-speed fiber.
• Mobile plan: 5 - 10 EUR (25 - 50 RON) per month for generous data.
• Public transport monthly pass: 15 - 25 EUR (75 - 125 RON), city dependent.
• Fuel: Check current prices. Historically around 1.5 - 1.7 EUR/liter, but fluctuates.

Groceries (monthly estimates)

• Single driver: 150 - 250 EUR (750 - 1,250 RON) if cooking at home.
• Family of 3-4: 350 - 500 EUR (1,750 - 2,500 RON) depending on diet and shopping habits.

Quick monthly budget examples

• Single international driver in Timisoara: 350 EUR rent + 120 EUR utilities + 200 EUR groceries + 20 EUR transport + 30 EUR phone/internet = ~720 EUR/month.
• Family of 3 in Bucharest: 650 EUR rent + 150 EUR utilities + 450 EUR groceries + 40 EUR transport + 40 EUR phone/internet = ~1,330 EUR/month.

Creating a Home Away from Home: Housing and Lifestyle Playbook

Your housing base influences your sleep quality, recovery time, and family connection. Use this practical framework to set up quickly and comfortably.

Choose the right area

• Proximity to depots and ring roads: For CE drivers, living near Bucharest Sectors 3-4-5-6, Chitila, or the A1/A2/A3 access can cut commute time. In Timisoara, look near logistic parks toward Giarmata or Sag. In Cluj-Napoca, consider Floresti or Apahida. In Iasi, look along major arterials for easy exit.
• Noise and air quality: Avoid major construction sites and heavy-traffic boulevards if you are a light sleeper. Upper floors in newer buildings tend to be quieter.
• Parking: If you drive a personal car, check for assigned parking or nearby paid lots. Parking heavy trucks inside residential areas is generally not allowed; plan for guarded truck parks on city edges.
• Safety and services: Walk the area at night. Check distance to supermarkets (Mega Image, Carrefour, Lidl), pharmacies, clinics, and your preferred gym.

Understand Romanian housing types

• New-build apartments: Better insulation, elevator, underground parking possible, but higher rent and condo association rules.
• Communist-era blocks (blocuri): Solid, central locations, but smaller kitchens and older utilities. Ask about insulation and heating.
• Houses on the outskirts: Ideal for families wanting space, garden, and privacy. Check heating type and commuting distance.

Must-have features for drivers

• Blackout capability: Essential for day sleep after night routes. Look for roll-down shutters or install blackout curtains.
• Heating and insulation: Many apartments have individual gas boilers. Ask about recent maintenance and energy bills from last winter. Good windows drastically improve comfort.
• Soundproofing: Thicker walls, end units, and top floors reduce noise. Bring earplugs and consider a white-noise machine.
• Washer and dryer access: Many units have a washing machine but no dryer. Invest in a foldable drying rack.
• Internet reliability: Fiber is widely available; ask the landlord which providers serve the building and what speeds are available.

Find housing effectively

• Websites: Imobiliare.ro, Storia.ro, OLX.ro, Publi24. Filter by areas near ring roads or your depot.
• Facebook groups: Expat and city-specific rental groups can surface good deals but verify landlords and contracts carefully.
• Real estate agents: Commission is typically 50% of one month rent from the tenant. Agents speed up searches if you have limited time.
• Documentation: Landlords may require passport/residence card, proof of employment, and a deposit (1-2 months). Ensure a written contract registered for your address declaration.

Negotiate smartly

• Ask for a furnished package: Bed with good mattress, desk, blackout curtains, and a microwave. Offer a longer lease for upgrades.
• Maintenance clause: Clarify who handles boiler service, small repairs, and appliance failures.
• Early termination: Request a reasonable notice period (30-60 days) in case your route or depot changes.

Quick comfort kit for any temporary flat

Pack or buy locally during your first week:

• Sleep essentials: Travel-quality memory foam pillow, blackout curtains with tension rods, earplugs, eye mask.
• Kitchen basics: Small induction hob if the unit lacks adequate stove space (check rules), non-stick pan, sharp knife, cutting board, collapsible containers, kettle, French press or moka pot.
• Cleaning: Microfiber cloths, compact vacuum or broom, laundry detergent pods, multipurpose cleaner.
• Comfort items: Throw blanket, compact lamp with warm light, foldable laptop stand, power strip with surge protection.
• Health and safety: First-aid kit, digital thermometer, spare phone charger, flashlight, CO detector if on gas heat.

Affordable stores: IKEA, JYSK, Dedeman, Auchan, Carrefour, and Decathlon for fitness or outdoor gear.

Organize for life on the road

• Two-bag system: Keep a ready-to-go truck bag (toiletries, 3-5 days of clothes, documents) and a home bag that stays in the apartment.
• Duplicates: Duplicate chargers, hygiene sets, and work gloves to avoid constant packing and forgetting.
• Drop zone: Near your entrance, set hooks for keys, tachograph card holder, and reflective vest to leave for the next shift.

Keep it family-friendly

• Video-first design: Set up a quiet corner with good lighting for regular video calls with family when you are away.
• Child space: If your family joins you, create a small play-study area with shelves and a foldable desk.
• Weekend rituals: Plan a weekly family breakfast or park visit when you are home to anchor routines.

Health and recovery

• Sleep window: Schedule a strict sleep block after long routes, silence notifications, and use white noise.
• Food routine: Batch-cook on days off. Freeze simple meals in containers to avoid late-night takeout.
• Fitness: Bodyweight workouts or resistance bands fit small flats. Parks are common in Romanian cities for walks.

Safety and paperwork

• Address registration: Keep your lease and address registration updated for immigration, banking, and healthcare.
• Insurance: Consider renter's insurance for valuables and liability, especially in new builds.
• Emergency contacts: Save local emergency number 112, nearest hospital, and your depot dispatcher.

Cultural Integration

Language basics

Romanian is a Romance language. Many young people speak English in cities, but learning basic Romanian speeds integration.

Useful phrases:

• Buna ziua - Hello
• Multumesc - Thank you
• Va rog - Please
• Unde este... - Where is...
• Cat costa? - How much is it?
• Am nevoie de... - I need...
• Nu vorbesc romana foarte bine - I do not speak Romanian very well

Language apps and evening classes in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi can get you to conversational level. Employers sometimes sponsor industry-specific language lessons.

Workplace culture

• Professional and direct: Dispatchers appreciate clear updates. Be punctual and provide proactive ETAs.
• Documentation matters: Keep delivery notes, CMRs, and tachograph data tidy. Compliance is taken seriously.
• Hierarchy: Respect for supervisors is expected, but feedback is welcomed when delivered politely.
• Smoking culture: Still common in some areas; know local smoking rules and company policy.

Driving culture and police

• Speed cameras are increasing. Fines must be paid promptly.
• Winter driving in mountain regions can be challenging. Check road conditions and carry chains when required.
• Police are professional; keep documents accessible and be polite during checks.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Follow this sequence to reduce stress and downtime.

1. Research and shortlist cities

   • Bucharest for maximum international routes, multiple depots, and flight connections.
   • Timisoara for western border access and logistics parks.
   • Cluj-Napoca for central-north connectivity and tech city amenities.
   • Iasi for lower rents and growing transport links in the northeast.

2. Secure a job offer

   • Prepare a CV highlighting license categories (C, CE, D), route experience, ADR certifications, and tachograph proficiency.
   • Target companies with established international contracts if you want higher per diem.

3. Handle permits and visas (non-EU)

   • Employer applies for work permit at IGI.
   • Obtain D/AM employment visa from a Romanian consulate.
   • Plan for 1.5 to 3 months total lead time.

4. Prepare documents

   • Passport with sufficient validity.
   • License and CPC proof; obtain sworn translations where needed.
   • Criminal record certificate from your home country.
   • Medical certificates, proof of experience.
   • International birth/marriage certificates for family reunification if applicable.

5. Finance and tax setup

   • Budget for deposit and first month rent (usually 2-3 months total upfront).
   • Open a bank account after residence card issuance; some banks offer accounts with passport and work contract.
   • Understand how per diem is taxed and reported.

6. Book temporary housing for arrival

   • 2-4 weeks in a serviced apartment or short-term rental while you search for a longer lease.
   • Choose a location with easy access to your employer.

7. Arrive and register

   • Attend IGI appointment for residence permit.
   • Register address; update employer and bank details.

8. Sort licenses and cards

   • Apply for tachograph driver card at ARR.
   • Exchange license if required at DRPCIV.
   • Schedule CPC periodic training or ADR course if needed.

9. Select long-term housing

   • Use viewing checklists: water pressure, heating type, noise levels, internet options, landlord responsiveness.
   • Negotiate contract terms and inventory list.

10. Build your home base in week one

• Buy the comfort kit (sleep, kitchen, cleaning, safety items).
• Install blackout curtains and set up a sleep-friendly bedroom.
• Set your cleaning and laundry routine.

1. Family integration

• School enrollment: Contact local schools; provide translated records and vaccination proof. International schools exist in Bucharest and a few larger cities.
• Healthcare: Register with a family doctor; explore private clinics for faster appointments.
• Community: Join expat groups and driver communities for support and tips.

Success Tips From Other Expat Drivers

• "Focus on blackout and quiet before anything else. After my first week of bad sleep, a 30 EUR curtain was life-changing."
• "Live near the ring road, not the city center. Commute time kills your rest more than rent savings help."
• "Duplicate everything: toiletries, chargers, gloves. Less time packing means fewer forgotten items."
• "Batch-cook two dishes every Sunday. Even when I get home late, I have real food in minutes."
• "Keep a single folder with copies of license, CPC, tachograph card, residence permit, and insurance. Border checks become stress-free."
• "Learn 50 Romanian phrases. People are patient, and it opens doors when you need help at a depot or store."
• "Ask HR exactly how per diem is taxed. It makes a big difference to your take-home."

Common Challenges and How to Handle Them

• Driving on the right side: If you are used to left-hand traffic, book a few hours with a local instructor to retrain habits in city traffic.
• Winter conditions: Equip your car with winter tires, keep a trunk kit (blanket, shovel, scraper, chains), and check mountain forecasts.
• Tolls and road taxes: Buy rovinieta online and keep the receipt. Save toll payment confirmations for bridges.
• EU working time directives: Stay strict with breaks and rest. Use your tachograph correctly and report malfunctions immediately.
• Distance from family: Schedule weekly video calls. Share your live location during long legs for peace of mind.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Relocating to Romania as a professional driver can transform your career and quality of life. With smart housing choices, a sleep-first apartment setup, and a clear plan for permits, licenses, CPC, ADR, and tachograph requirements, you can settle quickly and feel at home even when your work takes you far.

Start by shortlisting cities, securing a job with a transparent pay structure, and booking 2-4 weeks of temporary housing. In your first week, set up your comfort kit, register your address, and apply for your tachograph card. Build a routine that protects your sleep and family time. If you do, Romania will not just be a place you work - it will be a place you live well.

Ready to take the next step? Make a checklist from this guide, contact prospective employers, and schedule your visa or residence appointments. Your home away from home in Romania is closer than you think.

FAQ

1) Can I start driving in Romania with my non-EU license while I wait for exchange?

It depends on your status and the category. For private categories, short-term driving on a valid foreign license may be allowed, but for professional C, CE, and D categories, employers will usually require you to exchange your license and hold the correct CPC and tachograph driver card before dispatch. Confirm with your employer and DRPCIV. Plan to exchange promptly after you receive residence status.

2) How long does the work permit and visa process take for non-EU drivers?

A typical timeline is 30 working days for the employer to obtain the work permit and up to 60 days for the D/AM visa at a consulate, followed by 30-90 days for the residence permit after arrival. Start early and keep documents organized to avoid delays.

3) What is a realistic total income for an international CE driver based in Romania?

Many international CE drivers take home 1,400 - 2,400 EUR per month including base, per diem, and bonuses. ADR tankers, specialized loads, or longer rotations can push higher. Always evaluate the whole package: nights out, rotation pattern, per diem policy, and overtime rules.

4) Is English enough to live and work in Romania?

In depots and major cities, many colleagues speak English. However, basic Romanian greatly improves daily life, from shopping to handling minor incidents. Learn essential phrases and driving-related terms. Over time, you can reach conversational level with regular practice.

5) Can I bring my family, and how does school enrollment work?

Yes. After you have legal residence, your spouse and children can apply for family reunification visas and residence. For schools, contact your local inspectorate or school directly. You will need your child's birth certificate, vaccination records, and school transcripts, often with sworn translations. Public schools are in Romanian; international schools exist in Bucharest and select cities.

6) What are the best websites to find rentals and what deposits should I expect?

Imobiliare.ro, Storia.ro, and OLX.ro are popular. Expect to pay a deposit of 1-2 months rent plus the first month up front. If you use an agent, tenant commission is typically 50% of one month rent. Ensure you have a written contract and inventory list.

7) Do I need ADR to get a good job?

Not always, but ADR opens doors to higher-paying tankers and certain distribution jobs. Even basic ADR certification makes your CV stand out. If your employer offers to sponsor ADR, it is usually worth accepting.

8) How do per diems work and are they taxed?

Per diems compensate for travel expenses on international routes. Romanian law sets daily limits for tax-exempt amounts. Amounts above the cap can be taxable. Policies and thresholds change, so ask HR for written clarification and keep your trip records accurate.

9) What winter gear is mandatory and what is just smart to have?

Mandatory when conditions require: winter tires, and snow chains where signed. Always carry a reflective vest, warning triangle, and fire extinguisher. Smart extras: windshield de-icer, ice scraper, shovel, blanket, water, and a small power bank.

10) How can I make a small apartment feel like home fast?

Focus on sleep, light, and smell. Install blackout curtains, add a warm lamp, bring a familiar pillow and throw blanket, and keep a small coffee or tea ritual. Use a foldable table for meals and work. A few framed photos and a plant do wonders. Keep clutter to a minimum with foldable storage boxes.