July is a great month to be in Madison, and we want you to make the most of it! We are sharing some of the fun events and activities taking place across the city. From markets and fairs to lakeside lounging and memorable summer activities, Madison has something fun for everyone. 

1. Art Fair on the Square — July 11th and 12th. 

One of the Midwest’s most popular outdoor art celebrations will return to Capitol Square. With a mix of music, entertainment, and outdoor dining, as well as over 500 artists exhibiting paintings, prints, photographs, it’s undoubtedly one of the top attractions this summer. 

2. Concerts on the Square — Every Wednesday evening in July. 

From the excitement of Hollywood hits to the intimate beauty of Dvořák’s Romance in F Minor, this season of Concerts on the Square® brings six weeks of music that span genres, generations, and continents.

3. Memorial Union Terrace – Open daily. 

Enjoy the iconic sunburst chairs, beautiful lake views, gorgeous sunsets, and your fave foods. With stunning views of Lake Mendota, Memorial Union Terrace is a great spot to enjoy the summer sunshine and attend fun events.

4. Lake Monona & Lake Wingra – Open all Summer. 

If exploring the great outdoors is one of your favorite pastimes, Madison has a great choice of beautiful lakes, including Lake Monona and Lake Wingra. Many lakes offer activities like fishing, paddleboarding or kayaking to help you make the most of the summer weather. Check out what the top activities at the lake this summer here. 

5. Madison Mallards Baseball – Games throughout July. 

Catch a collegiate-level baseball game at the "Duck Pond" in Warner Park. Each game is known for its zany, fan-focused entertainment that makes for a memorable experience.

6. Devil's Lake State Park

Only a 1-hour drive north in Baraboo is Wisconsin's premier hiking destination. From massive 500-foot quartzite cliffs overlooking a crystal clear glacial lake with picnic and swimming areas, it’s an outdoor-lovers' paradise!

Madison has so many wonderful activities to enjoy this summer. Let us know what you get up to in the comments below!

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The first day of summer is on June 21st. Now is the perfect time to refresh your apartment decor without breaking the bank. This month on the blog, we are sharing some budget-friendly ideas to give your living space a summer makeover.
 

Embrace Light and Airy Textures

Say goodbye to heavy winter fabrics and embrace light and airy textures that reflect the freshness of spring. Swap out cozy blankets and throws for lightweight options like cotton or linen. Opt for sheer curtains, allowing natural light to filter into your space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
 

Bring the Outdoors In

Celebrate the arrival of spring by bringing elements of nature into your apartment. Add a touch of greenery with potted plants or fresh flowers to breathe life into your space. Incorporate natural materials like wood, rattan, or bamboo in your decor to create a sense of warmth and connection to the outdoors.
 

Add Pops of Color

Infuse your apartment with the vibrant colors of spring to create a cheerful and uplifting atmosphere. Incorporate pops of color with accent pillows, throws, or artwork in shades of pastel pink, soft green, or sunny yellow. Mix and match different colors and patterns to add visual interest to your space.
 

DIY Spring Decor

Get creative and add a personal touch to your apartment decor with DIY projects inspired by spring. Create a floral centerpiece using fresh blooms from your local market, or craft your own spring wreath using seasonal foliage and flowers. Not only are DIY projects budget-friendly, but they also add a unique and personalized touch to your space.
 

Declutter and Organize

Spring is the perfect time to declutter and organize your living space to create a sense of calm and serenity. Clear out any clutter and donate or recycle items that you no longer need. Invest in storage solutions like baskets, bins, or shelving units to keep your belongings organized and out of sight.
 

By incorporating these budget-friendly ideas into your apartment decor, you can refresh your living space and welcome the new season with a sense of vibrancy and joy. So get creative, have fun, and enjoy the beauty of spring!

The post Budget-Friendly Ways to Update Your Apartment Decor for Spring appeared first on Park Cedar Apartments Blog.

Mother's Day, which is on Sunday, May 10th, is fast approaching. This month on the blog, we have listed some local restaurants and stores so you can treat your Mom, Grandmother, or mother figure this Mother’s Day!

Restaurants

Mint Mark, 1874 E. Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53704

Mint Mark is a local favorite that puts fresh produce at the heart of all they do, showcasing the best of what Wisconsin has to offer. Producing wonderful small plates and creative cocktails and drinks for all, this is a great place to take your loved ones this Mother's Day. You can find out more and book your spot at www.mintmarkmadison.com. 

Sardine, 617 Williamson St, Madison, WI 53703

Sardine is the second restaurant of co-owners and chefs, John Gadau and Phillip Hurley, sharing the same notions about local ingredients, simple but thoughtfully crafted flavor profiles, and the importance of the concepts of “place” and “classic tradition”. Sardine is a lakeside bistro and bar that serves brunch and dinner, along with a variety of wines. To find out more and book, check out www.sardinemadison.com.

Merchant Madison, 121 S. Pinckney St, Madison, WI 53703

Merchant Madison provides a fun, welcoming environment for visitors. Described by some as the best brunch in Madison, this is a great spot for a morning Mother's day treat. However, they also serve up great evening food and cocktails! To check them out and book your spot, visit www.merchantmadison.com. 

Shopping

Hazel General Store, 1250 Williamson Street, Madison, WI 53703

Hazel General Store is a popular store with many Madisonians for its unique and charming gifts. The store boasts a variety of gift options for Mother's Day, from cards and stationery to art supplies and bespoke jewelry. You can find out more at www.hazelgeneralstore.com, order online, or visit the store!

Wisconsin Cheese Mart, 119 State St, Madison, WI 53703

Wisconsin Cheese Mart offers a wonderful variety of gourmet gift options perfect for moms who love to indulge their taste buds. From the Nibbler Gift Crate to the Artisan Assortment Gift box, there are some great options to choose from this Mother’s Day. You can visit them in store or shop online today at www.wisconsincheesemart.com. 

Artsy Fartsy, Madison, 171 Monroe St, Madison, WI 53711

Looking for a gift that’s fun, thoughtful, and a little outside the box? Arty Farty Madison offers a charming selection of gifts, stationery, and greeting cards – perfect for adding a personal touch to your Mother’s Day celebration. You could also consider gifting one of their art classes. It’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together while exploring your creative sides. You can browse their full collection and sign up for classes at www.artsyfartsymadison.com.

What are your top spots for Mother’s Day?

The post Mother’s Day Ideas: Restaurants and Activities to Try This Mothers Day appeared first on Park Cedar Apartments Blog.

With all the changes life brings, it is important to stay grounded by making your home your own personal oasis. This month on the blog we are discussing one of the greatest ways to do this in a rented space. An idea for cultivating this kind of environment is to incorporate house plants into your home. Plants provide a number of benefits to us, both physiologically and psychologically. Here are just a few.

Air Purification

As Linda Solegato so simply put it, “plants give us oxygen for the lungs and the soul." Indoor air pollution can come from a number of sources over time, such as wall paints and laminates, and can be found in homes of any size. However, plants literally clean the air around you. According to NASA research, plants absorb and remove up to 87% of volatile organic compounds from the air every day, which they break down and store in their soil for food. They therefore help produce fresh, clean oxygen! Great air purifiers are snake plants, rubber plants, English ivy, asparagus ferns, and dragon trees.

Increased Humidity Levels

Another way that plants can help with air purification is by increasing humidity levels. When you live in a house, items such as air conditioners and furnaces can dry out the air in our homes, particularly during the winter months. It’s been shown that this can lead to us having more compromised immune systems and also dry out our skin, making it itchy. Having plants in the home adds moisture to the air, contributing to our overall well being.  

Mental Health

There are many ways in which indoor plants can also have a positive effect on your mental health. One way is through boosting positive emotions. Researchers in the United Kingdom, for example, found that people who live around nature feel much happier than those that don't. It’s also clear that taking care of plants is an example of a mindfulness practice. Mindfulness practices keep you grounded within the present moment, which can radically improve your stress levels. Whether you are potting for the first time or just watering plants every day, there’s something about the repetitive routine which is mindful and calming, therefore contributing to a positive change in mental health.

Productivity

Finally, having house plants can lead to greater productivity. Some studies have shown that employee productivity can increase by 15%, so you’re more likely to keep on track if you are still working from home, regardless of the many distractions around you. 

So as you can see, there are many benefits to incorporating plants into your home. As Joen Beirne, a horticultural therapy instructor at the New York Botanical Garden, has said, “We evolved on earth amongst the grasslands surrounded by trees and plants. It is no wonder they make us feel at home."

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Whether you plan on moving in with a friend, a family member, or someone you don't yet know, inviting someone to live with you is a big commitment. To make sure you have all the information you need to feel comfortable, here are a few topics we recommend you discuss with your potential roommate over coffee or a call (whether you know them or not). 
 

Financials: What is your employment status? Have you ever had trouble paying the rent on time? How long do you expect to stay in town? 

This is usually the first topic that springs to mind when interviewing a potential roommate. Depending on your situation, you may be relying on your roommate to pay the rent, so it's important that whoever you're living with is reliable and has a good history of paying rent on time. Having a frank conversation about paying the rent, their employment status, and if they plan on staying in town for the duration of the lease will give you the peace of mind you need to move forward. 

Social Life: Are you an introvert or an extrovert? What's your social life like? What are your hobbies? How do you like to spend your downtime?

While opposites can get on really well outside of the home, it can cause friction if one person is a homebody who likes quiet time to cozy up with a good book, while the other plays a loud instrument or hosts parties every other night. Talking about your preferences, hobbies,s and interests up front sets realistic expectations/boundaries and will ensure you are comfortable living together in 3 months’ time.

Pets: Do you have any pets? 

Pets can be such a fun and loving addition to any home, but they can also cause a lot of chaos, mess, and destruction if they aren't properly trained. Our top tip? If the answer to this question is yes, arrange to meet the little guy ahead of time so you can get a feel for their energy and check that you get along before they move into your home. Don’t forget to reach out to our team to better understand breed, weight, and number restrictions.

Work Schedule: What's your work schedule?

It can be hard to live with someone whose schedule is opposite to yours. If you're trying to sleep while your roommate is awake, blasting the TV, it can lead to a lack of sleep and conflict within the home. Being aware of your roommate’s schedule can help avoid any tension down the line.  

Cleanliness: How often do you clean? Do you smoke? 

Everyone has different expectations for cleanliness, and they don't always align. Some people like everything to be in its place and clean in small doses on a daily basis, while others aren't phased by the dishes piling up and getting to them later. Consider developing a cleaning schedule to divide the tasks fairly between both parties. 

Relationships: Do you have a significant other or best friend that you expect to be over all the time? 

Having another human in the home can increase bills and noise. Set expectations ahead of time so you're not passively inviting 2 people to live in your home.

If you address these 6 key areas, you're setting yourself up for a successful roommate relationship! What other questions would you ask a potential roommate? Tell us in the comments below!

[Renter tip: If you are renting an apartment, make sure to speak with your property management company because you are most likely required to add a new roommate to your lease.]

The post ​​6 Topics to Discuss with a Potential Roommate appeared first on Park Cedar Apartments Blog.

As temperatures drop, it’s tempting to crank up the heat, but winter is also a great time to adopt more eco-friendly habits. Here are some simple, sustainable practices for winter apartment living that can help reduce your environmental impact, save energy, and minimize waste—all while keeping you comfortable during the colder months.
 

1. Energy-Saving Tips for Heating and Lighting

Keeping warm without wasting energy can be challenging, but there are some easy ways to conserve heat and reduce utility bills. Place draft stoppers at the bottom of doors and windows to prevent cold air from seeping in and warm air from escaping. Instead of turning up the heat, wear cozy sweaters and use blankets to stay warm. Adjust your thermostat slightly lower when possible. You can also switch to LED bulbs for energy-efficient lighting during the darker months. They last longer and use significantly less energy than traditional bulbs.
 

2. How to Reduce Waste and Recycle in Apartments

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t manage waste efficiently. Here are some tips for minimizing waste and boosting recycling efforts. Check your building’s recycling policies and ensure you’re properly sorting materials like cardboard, plastic, and glass. If your building allows it, consider starting a small compost bin for food scraps. Some apartment complexes partner with local composting services, making it easier to dispose of compostable waste. You can minimize food waste by meal planning to avoid over-buying food, and use leftovers creatively. You can also freeze items that might go bad to avoid unnecessary waste.
 

3. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Switching to environmentally friendly cleaning products is another easy way to reduce your environmental footprint. Choose biodegradable cleaners or make your own from natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. These options are often cheaper and better for indoor air quality, making them ideal for small apartments.

By adopting these eco-friendly practices, you can enjoy a more sustainable lifestyle this winter. Small changes like reducing energy consumption, decorating sustainably, and minimizing waste in your apartment can make a big difference, benefiting both your budget and the environment.

The post Sustainability in Winter: Eco-Friendly Practices for Apartment Living appeared first on Park Cedar Apartments Blog.

When it comes to winter, nothing’s better than coming home to a cozy space, especially in the Midwest. Even if you live in an apartment with limited space, you can still accomplish that same cozy feel as your favorite blogger does in their home. Here are 5 different ways to make your apartment cozy for the winter season ahead.
 

Be strategic with your lighting

Lighting can make all the difference when it comes to making a space feel cozy. If your apartment home has overhead lights, consider using lamps instead to avoid harsh lighting. Also, using certain soft light lightbulbs can help to create a calming effect in your space. Adding string LED lights can also change up the atmosphere of any room.
 

Use plush and soft blankets and rugs

Nothing screams cozy like soft blankets and rugs. Bringing texture into a colder space helps to ground the eyes and soften the furnishings. Besides using them to rest and relax, you can use your blankets as decoration. Hang them on a decorative ladder or stack them on a chair for a warm and actually usable accessory. Plush rugs achieve the cozy look but also feel cozy on your feet which is a win-win.
 

Add a warm tone to your color scheme 

You may not be able to change the paint on your walls, but when it comes to other decor and decorative items, consider adding in a warm tone. Usually a richer, darker tone can help create that “cove”-like feeling you’re looking for. Even bringing in a darker brown to add depth to a neutral color palette can help.
 

 Electric fireplaces

Think of your favorite spa or ski lounge and how comforting it feels with the fireplace roaring. An electric fireplace is a great alternative to a real fireplace in an apartment home. Just make sure to take extra precautions to ensure safety by setting alarms on your phone.
 

Get rid of the clutter

Clutter can easily eliminate the cozy feeling in your home. Our advice? Clean out what you don’t need and organize what you have. You’ll find that your space is much more calming when things are properly stored and organized. You won’t need to focus on all of the “extras” in your apartment home and can just be at peace with your cozy apartment home look.
 

With these additions, your apartment home can easily be transformed into the perfect place to warm up in the winter months. 

The post 5 Ways to Make Your Apartment Cozy for Winter appeared first on Park Cedar Apartments Blog.

You’ve likely heard of luxury housing and affordable housing, but have you ever heard of luxury affordable housing? Today’s blog breaks down our innovative initiative to provide income-restricted, affordable housing to our community, with the benefit of a luxury lifestyle and all the bells and whistles offered in non-affordable communities.

What is Affordable Housing?

There are several federal programs that provide financing for the development of affordable or workforce housing such as HUD, USDA-RD, and Section 42 of the IRS Tax Credit Code. When we use the term “affordable housing”, we are referring to properties that fall under these umbrella terms where governmental agencies provide developer incentives or rent assistance/subsidies. What this means is that if individuals or families meet the income qualifications for housing built under these programs, they may qualify for a reduced rental rate, or maybe even a contribution towards their payment every month. Learn more about general affordable housing, here.

So where does “Luxury Affordable” Housing fit into this?

Luxury Affordable Housing is communities using Tax Credits and may also be called “Workforce Housing”. Communities like Park Cedar Apartments are built to appear the same to prospects and passers-by as luxury housing as they are built with upscale finishes and amenities including, for example, stainless appliances, luxury vinyl plank flooring, in-home laundry, underground parking, fitness centers, community rooms, and more. Individuals and families who will potentially be eligible for these communities will typically be subject to income restrictions ranging from 30 to 80% of the county median income. You might be interested to know that many vital jobs fit into these ranges, including school teachers, daycare workers, police officers, firefighters, customer service representatives, restaurant workers, and more. Park Cedar Apartments is one of the Luxury Affordable Communities that has recently opened with developers under this category.

Regretfully, Affordable Housing often comes with a negative stigma. The assumption is that affordable properties are only located in undesirable neighborhoods, and are not well cared for or professionally developed, or managed. Similarly, Luxury Affordable Housing may be assumed to be expensive, yet Luxury Affordable Housing challenges both of these objections, as those who make it their home enjoy high-end accommodation with all that non-affordable properties have to offer, while still gaining government assistance to go towards their rent.

We are proud of the commitment we foster to make Affordable Housing and Luxury Affordable Housing accessible and sustainable. If you have any questions about luxury affordable housing at Park Cedar Apartments or want to know if you qualify to live here, reach out to us!

The post Understanding Luxury Affordable Housing appeared first on Park Cedar Apartments Blog.

Fall is just around the corner! The first official day of the season is Monday, September 22nd, and for many, that means it’s time to break out the cozy vibes. Pumpkins, autumnal colors, and Halloween touches start making their way into homes, setting the stage for crisp evenings and festive traditions.

This month on the blog, we’re sharing the best tips and ideas to help you welcome fall in style. Whether you’re planning to deck out your balcony/patio, bring autumn-inspired accents indoors, or get a head start on Halloween, we’ve got you covered.

Deep Clean and Declutter

A new season is always best welcomed with a fresh start, and that begins with a thorough deep clean and declutter. Take the time to reach those forgotten corners of your home — the ones that often go untouched during the busy summer months — like behind the sofa, along window sills, beneath the fridge, and around vents. Don’t forget to wipe down baseboards and molding, which tend to collect dust, or give ceiling fans and light fixtures some attention so they’re ready for the cozy evenings ahead. Freshening up carpets and rugs with a deep vacuum will also help reset your space after months of summer activity. 

Once your home is fresh, pack away summer décor such as sunshine-hued linens, breezy throws, and vibrant cushions. By tucking away these warm-weather accents, you’re not only creating a clean slate for your fall touches but also giving yourself the mental clarity to embrace the shift in seasons. The result is a home that feels both refreshed and ready to welcome the cozy comforts autumn brings.

Add Fall Touches

Once your home is clean and refreshed, it’s the perfect time to layer in those warm fall touches. One of the simplest ways to shift into the season is through autumnal colors — inspired by the changing leaves. Think deep greens, rustic oranges, earthy browns, and rich purples. Swapping in pumpkin-themed cushions, heavier duvets or flannel sheets, and plenty of blankets instantly brings a sense of warmth and comfort. Diffusers or electric candles, especially those with seasonal scents like cinnamon or apple, can also help set a cozy atmosphere as the evenings grow longer. For a more personal touch, consider taking on a DIY project, such as crafting a wreath from gathered leaves and pine cones, or creating your own painted pumpkins and centerpiece displays. These small updates not only make your home feel inviting but also celebrate the beauty of the season in a way that reflects your style.

Decorate for Halloween

As October approaches, Halloween decor adds a playful twist to your seasonal setup. From carved pumpkins on the patio to spooky wreaths, cobweb accents, or themed table displays, these little touches bring festive fun into your home. Whether you go all-out with a haunted-house theme or keep it simple with a few statement pieces, Halloween decorating is a chance to celebrate the season with creativity.

Lighting

As fall settles in, the days naturally grow shorter, and lighting takes on an even greater role in shaping the atmosphere of your home. Instead of relying solely on harsh overhead lights, consider layering in softer, warm-toned options like table lamps, fairy lights, or clusters of candles. These gentler sources of light instantly transform a space, creating a cozy glow that feels welcoming on crisp autumn evenings. Strategically placing smaller lights around the room not only brightens dark corners but also fosters a calm, restful environment, perfect for winding down after busy days and embracing the slower pace of the season.

Practical Touches

Now your space feels cozy and warm. Make sure to prepare for colder months. This means more blankets and warmer textures around your home. In addition, it is time to pull out your sweaters, boots, scarves, and coats. If closet space is limited, use space that is not utilized, such as under your bed, to keep your space clutter-free.

Welcoming fall into your home is about more than just décor – it’s about creating an environment that reflects the season’s cozy, comforting spirit. By making these simple shifts, you’ll not only prepare your home for the season ahead but also carve out a space that feels peaceful, welcoming, and ready to be enjoyed all autumn long.

The post Preparing Your Apartment For Fall appeared first on Park Cedar Apartments Blog.

We love to receive resident feedback, as it helps us improve where we can and give kudos to those who deserve it. We might be biased, but we think Park Cedar Apartments is a great place to live—and this month on the blog, we’re sharing reviews from residents who agree!

One of our greatest assets at Park Cedar Apartments is our property management team. The team keeps everything running smoothly, and we love hearing about your positive experiences with them. Here are some of the wonderful reviews we’ve received:
 

"Great property managers! They are really down to earth, and they make sure tenants are heard and respected! Shar is AWESOME! She is kind, caring, and a great asset to your company! I hope she is appreciated because it’s well deserved!" – Xuan Johnson via Google 

"The ladies in the office are amazing! Anything I’ve needed help with is done in a very timely manner and always very respectfully! I have never had any issues with anything! My kids and I feel safe everywhere in the building and on the premises!" – Shiloh via Google 

"Myanna is THE best! She literally made miracles happen so my family and I could move into this lovely apartment community, in a matter of days, which should have taken weeks!! I cannot thank her enough for her persistence, perseverance, and kindness in my urgent search for an apartment. 10 stars! Just a wonderful human! I honestly don't know what I would have done without her help. Truly grateful and thankful! Shar is pretty great, too! Thank you!" – Tina M. via Google 

"I have lived in Park Cedar for just over a year. I signed a new lease because I have never felt more at home than I do here. Management does its best to accommodate every issue. Shar and Mayana are always smiling and professional. My ESAs and I feel safe and respected in our home. Thank you, Wisconsin Management Company, for taking care of this complex." – Alpha B via Google

"I just moved in, and I had the best experience with Park Cedar Apartments. I highly recommend Myana. She thoroughly explained everything on the lease, was so nice, helpful, professional, and responsive to all my questions and needs." – Emily Perez via Google

"The moving process was very smooth and easy. Staff were very responsive and helpful. Units are very modern and clean, and so are the common areas. I would like to give a shoutout to Charmeisha and Myana. They went above and beyond, and honestly, the best leasing staff I have seen. I would recommend choosing them for any moving/leasing questions! I always received a fast response and a thorough answer to what I was asking." – Zybion Sherman via Google 

We also receive great feedback about the community as a whole, including the location, amenities, and more…

"Park Cedar Apartments is a great place to live. Not only is it accessible to shopping and bus routes, but the apartments are beautiful, and the building managers are extremely friendly and courteous. All issues are met with concern and are addressed promptly. There are many amenities that are not usually available in all affordable housing units, including an exercise room with a play room for children, a community room for events (birthday parties, family reunions, etc.) A meeting room, a beautiful rooftop terrace, and children's playrooms are located throughout the building. Recently, a resident council has been started to address issues and concerns with the property owners. Would recommend it. 5 stars!" – Daniel McNamara via Google 

"The location of this property is really convenient, located right off of Park Street near restaurants, the post office, and not far from the UW Arboretum! … Office staff are attentive and friendly, and truly care about trying to maintain the safety and atmosphere of the property. I'm happy I was able to secure a 2-bedroom unit before they filled up!" – Anonymous, apartments.com

If you have been inspired to find out more about what your life at Park Cedar Apartments could look like, contact our team to learn more and schedule a tour.

The post Resident Reviews – A Round Up Of Why People Love Living Here appeared first on Park Cedar Apartments Blog.