Making a rental your own can be hard when you can’t make major changes. It can be even harder when your apartment feels outdated and you’re fighting against 90s fads.
Luckily, there are plenty of ways to make your rental fit your style without violating your lease. Here are some small changes you can make to elevate your apartment and make it feel more like home.
Add Some Lighting
Skip the overhead light and opt for lamps, candles, and natural light in your living room or bedroom. Softer lighting will make your place feel more luxurious and relaxing, and lamps are another great way to express your style. To take it to the next level, add some backlighting to your TV, couch, wall art, and mirrors. This will make your room feel more modern and add a soft glow to your home.
Hang Curtains
Curtains can make any room look more polished. Whether you choose breezy sheer panels or hefty blackout drapes, curtains are a great way to tie a room together.
The key to making curtains look expensive is to hang them high and wide. Secure your curtain rods about 5 inches above your window and extend the rod about 5 inches beyond the frame. This will make your apartment look bigger and more luxurious. Nail holes are normal wear and tear and should not make you lose your security deposit, but adhesive curtain rod brackets can do the job just fine if you’re worried about drilling into your walls.
Add an Adhesive Backsplash
A peel-and-stick backsplash is a great way to add character to your kitchen without making any major changes. These come in almost any faux tile shape and color, so you can keep your aesthetic going in the kitchen. For an easy removal process when you move out, line your wall with blue painter’s tape before adhering the backsplash. This will keep the adhesive from damaging the original backsplash or paint.
Change the Outlet Covers
Add a pop of color to your walls by changing out the outlet covers and light switch plates. Whether you want something elegant, quirky, or understated, unique outlet covers and switch plates are easy, reversible statement pieces. Make sure you keep the original covers and put them back on before you move out!
Mix Textures and Patterns
Mixing patterns and textures in your home decor can give your space a more dynamic look. There are no rules when decorating your home, but here are a few tips to turn you into an interior design pro.
To layer patterns without clashing, choose three or four colors throughout the room and let those guide you. Anchor the varying patterns with solid-color pieces to balance the contrast and give the patterns space to make a statement. For example, if you have floral wallpaper on a wall with a window, add solid-color curtains to allow the wallpaper to be the focal point.
Have fun with fabrics and materials by layering textures with throws for your couch or tabletop decor for your desk or coffee table. Velvet and jacquard throw pillows can elevate a plain cotton sofa, and adding some marble coasters can give your wooden coffee table a modern look.
Change the Cabinet Knobs
Switch out brushed nickel knobs in the kitchen and bathrooms for unique knobs that match your color scheme. Add a pop of color with some painted knobs, or go for a more understated look with brass or oil-rubbed bronze. Keep the original knobs in a safe place and put them back on before you move out.
Change the Showerheads
Most apartment bathrooms have showerheads that can be easily removed. To make your bathroom feel like a spa, switch out your standard showerhead for a rainfall showerhead.
First, unscrew the original showerhead and clean the shower arm. Dry off the shower arm and wrap the pipe thread with thread seal tape to prevent leakage. Then, screw on your new showerhead and enjoy your spa experience. Don’t forget to put the original showerhead back on when you move out!
Feeling at home in your rental can be hard when you can’t paint the walls, change the flooring, or install your own appliances. However, getting creative with decorating ideas can make your apartment feel more luxurious. Before making changes, review your lease to know what isn’t allowed.
