Blank white walls, muddy-colored carpet and vertical blinds: The bane of every apartment renter’s existence. Renting can more often feel like you’re camping out in a dental office waiting room, instead of sleeping at home sweet home. But don’t fret yet; you can dress your small space without ripping up the carpet (or ripping out your hair). Here are 15 ways to live large and in charge in your rental without sacrificing your security deposit.
1. Think Pretty + Practical: Most of use are tight for space when we’re renting, so invest in home goods that are pretty enough to display to free up kitchen space, like these bright trays. Getting anything out of the cupboards and onto the wall is a big plus. (via Brit + Co)
2. Go for a Gallery Wall: There’s no better way to fill up a big white wall than with your favorite pieces of art (if your landlord says no way to nail holes, use adhesive Velcro backing). Add an extra dose of design oomph by dipping your frames and pictures in paint. (via Brit + Co)
3. Don’t Forget the Door: Give your door some character by outlining the moulding or adding a fun pattern in easy-to remove washi tape. (via Brooklyn Bride)
4. Get Your Green On: Bring in some herbs to freshen up (and perfume!) your space. If you can’t use nails, this tall DIY’d planter will look equally as good leaning against a wall. (via Brit + Co)
5. Get Pattern Off the Wall and Onto the Bed: Permanent patterned wallpaper is definitely a no-go for most apartment dwellers. Punch up the pattern on your bedding instead with this fun DIY. (via Brit + Co)
6. Two Words: Removable Wallpaper: Peel, stick and go — and see how your whole space is transformed. (via Betapet)
7. Fun Wall Decals: If you just want a touch of pattern in one specific place, try a removable wall decal. They’re like giant stickers for your pad. And if you have a bathroom this big in your apartment with a tub this cool, lucky you. (via Sticker Brand)
8. Think Beyond the Frame: If you think hanging up frames for a gallery wall sounds a bit tedious, try a wall hanging. Cover more ground with one bold piece, like this macrame stunner. (via Brit + Co)
9. Versatility is Key: It’s a rug, it’s a wall hanging, it’s a table cover… it’s all three! Change up the style in your small space frequently with this DIY. (via Brit + Co)
10. Invest in Multifunctional Furniture: Here’s another space-saving tip: Buy pieces that can serve multiple purposes. A bar cart can stand in as a side table or entertainment console until you’re ready to party. (via So Haute)
11. Go Glam With Accessories: To counteract bland walls or carpet, go all-out with blingy accessories. A golden, gilded polar bear bookend is just what the doctor ordered. (via Brit + Co)
12. Update Appliances: Use removable wallpaper on your fridge for a major kitchen update. Let’s make fridge-papering a thing, folks. (via Aunt Peaches)
13. Say Bye to Boring Shelves: Line the back of shelves with bold fabric and barely detectable finishing nails. (via Apartment Therapy)
14. Velcro Is Your New Best Friend: Use Velcro tape and fasteners to create an eye-catching memo board that doubles as wall decoration. (via Brit + Co)
15. Personalize With Picture Stickers: Stick ’em anywhere, then peel them off and stick ’em anywhere else. An easy way to “redecorate” in a rental. (via The Makerista)
Got any other rental decorating tips or tricks? Tried any of the above? Tell us in the comments below!
