Flatmates 101: How to Make Friends Without Being Awkward

So you've only just moved into your London student flat. New town. New room. New housemates. 

And then there's the difficult part: how do you convert those faces in the lift from stranger to pal — without turning bright red with embarrassment? 

Whether you’re in a flatshare in London, a private student housing setup, or one of those stylish student apartments in London with common areas and shared kitchens, the pressure to “fit in” can be very real. 

But the truth is, everyone around you is just as nervous as you are. Everyone's winging it. You don't have to be boisterous, clever, or even people-oriented. Just a few little secrets — and some patience.  

Step 1: Say Hi — Even If You're Nervous 

We get it. Going up to a stranger (who's likely still wearing pajamas) isn't the most natural thing. But the sooner you say hello, the sooner the weirdness is done. 

Start with a smile and something breezy such as: 

"Hi! Just moved in today. How long have you been here?" 

Don't be too over-the-top. You're not introducing yourself at a TED talk – you're just breaking the ice for some chatty, casual chat. 

Most of the student flat accommodation in London will have other flatmates who are international students, as you will. 

They will appreciate you breaking the ice! 

Step 2: Let Food Do the Talking 

One of the easiest (and most effective) ice-breakers? Break bread. 

Cook no banquet, if you can barely boil. Instant noodles are acceptable as an ice-breaker: 

"Made too much! Want some?" 

Or 

"Hi, ever had this sort of food before?" 

In normal London student flats, the kitchen is your living room. If you are staying in a flat that was leased under an Acolyte Living lease, your flat is likely to have a warm, communal kitchen where such passing interactions are perfect. 

And if your go-to food is something Indian (Maggi or parathas, for example)? Better still. And when it comes to food? It’s more than a meal — it’s a gateway to culture, stories, and bonding. 

Step 3: Don't Be the Ghost (or the Cleanliness Cop) 

Here's something no one tells you: 

Roommates love the person who is dependable. Not the person who ghosts move-in. And not the person who leaves passive-aggressive sticky notes about dirty spoons. 

Do your thing. Clean up after yourself. Offer to divide up household tasks (be un-confrontational). 

These little reminders say: 

Respect for space goes both ways — give it, and you’ll get it. 

This relaxed casualness builds more trust than any dinner party ever could. 

Step 4: Ask, Not Organize 

There is no need to have a game night and send out RSVP cards. 

Just do this: 

"Hey, I'm getting bubble tea — want to come with?" 

Low-key invitations like these welcome them in without pushing them through the door. 

And if they say no to you the first time, they'll remember you inviting them out. That's tallied. 

London student suggests that you're basically being surrounded by great bookshops, cafes, or even river walks. Let the city become your playground of humans — and there are invitations on tap. 

Step 5: Make Common Space Common Again 

If you simply remain cooped up in your bedroom on a daily basis, then your housemates won't have any idea that you're available for talk. 

Try to read in the lounge. Try to sit and watch television in the lounge. Try to brew coffee in the kitchen. 

These are times — you're there but you're not being wild — when an easy invitation to drop by and say hello to you is issued to flatmates. 

Label it "passive socialising" — you're there, you're relaxed, and you're making an effort to be approachable. That's all. 

 Step 6: Be Respecting Their Quiet 

There are boisterous and noisy people. There are quiet individuals who require some space. 

If your roommate is quiet, don't go crazy or overcompensate. Simply leave them alone, and be nice. Respect begets connection — and eventually, they'll come around on their own terms. 

And hey — if you’re the quiet one? Don’t feel pressured to change. A good friendship forms when both sides feel seen as they are. 

 Step 7: It’s Okay to Be Awkward — Everyone Is 

No matter how self-assured you are, the initial days are a bit uncomfortable — and that's okay. 

You’re not the only one who forgot someone’s name on day two or had a weird kitchen encounter. Laugh about it. Say: 

“Sorry — I’m still figuring out how not to be the awkward new person.” 

You’d be surprised how often that honesty opens a conversation that turns into a real connection. 

Final Thought: Flatmates Today, Family Tomorrow 

Here at Acolyte Living, we've watched thousands of Indian students settle into student shared flats in London and leave with lifelong friends — all beginning with a friendly knock on the door. 

It doesn't always work out. But when it does, your London flat is no longer something you pay for… and more of a home. 

TL;DR – Flatmate Friendship Tips 

✔️ Hi, early, and casually 

✔️ Break bread, however plain 

✔️ Do your part, not over-police 

✔️ Invite, not overwhelm 

✔️ Share spaces 

✔️ Respect differences 

✔️ Laugh off cringe moments 

Struggling to find a social-friendly flatshare? 

We match you with vetted, quality London student flats — with other good eggs like you: nice, motivated, and ready to kick off their UK life. 

DM us or check out options on acolyteliving.com