CLICK HERE to Watch My Milan Aparto Ripamonti Studio Apartment Tour Video
Your apartment in Milan, wherever you ultimately land, is your home base for the next three months. From a productivity and wellbeing standpoint, it’s non-negotiable to make that space work for you. This video walks through what to expect at Aparto Ripamonti and how to optimize your setup from day one.
At Aparto Ripamonti, weekly room cleaning is included and typically takes place on Mondays. The exact timing varies, but you’ll quickly adapt. One of the biggest value adds is storage: there is significantly more space than you might expect, including storage behind the bed. I used this area for my carry-on luggage, which helped keep the room uncluttered and functional. Because storage is ample, overpacking is unnecessary, I’ve linked a separate packing guide for reference: https://www.iesabroad.org/blogs/fall2025/kashaf-iftikhar/what-pack-your-suitcase-and-still-have-space-left.
The apartment comes with a limited number of hangers, which I used strategically for professional clothing and items that wrinkle easily. I didn’t purchase additional hangers. A few low-cost additions made a meaningful difference, including a laundry basket and a bath mat from Primark. The shower space is compact, so the bath mat was a practical safeguard. I also purchased food containers in a few sizes to support meal prep and keep the kitchen organized.
Most importantly, the layout made it easy to separate work and rest. I never studied on my bed; the desk and lighting supported focused work after my internship, often while dinner was cooking. This time-blocking approach allowed me to stay productive without sacrificing sleep, always a delicate tradeoff abroad.
Finally, I made space for routines that kept me grounded, whether calling family across a nine-hour time difference or winding down with familiar shows. The takeaway is simple: optimize your space, protect your time, and build routines that support both performance and balance. Your apartment isn’t just where you sleep, it’s a strategic asset.
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Kashaf Iftikhar
Hi, I’m Kashaf—a first-generation Pakistani-American. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, shadowboxing, reading non-fiction novels, and volunteering. I can’t wait to share my journey in Milan, one cappuccino at a time!
