Renting an apartment often comes with
limitations when it comes to decorating
your space. Many landlords ask their tenants to refrain from making
permanent changes, like painting and putting up shelving or picture frames.
This is usually in an effort to keep damage at a minimum and to ensure as
little work as possible will need to be done before new tenants move
in. These types of restrictions can cause a space to feel lackluster.
Check out these renter-friendly decoration alternatives to help transform
your new home with no lasting damage!
Use Removable Wallpapers and Decals
Wallpaper and decals like
contact paper or washi tape have come a long way within the last few decades.
You can now find removable wallpaper and decals in many
home
maintenance and decor stores. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, but
if you’re not finding something that stands out to you, consider designing your
own
online and having it shipped to your home!
Incorporate Bold Colors and Patterns
If you have limited wall space, or aren’t allowed to hang things on
your walls, consider incorporating bold colors and patterns into
your furniture and accessories. Statement pieces like a brightly
colored couch with patterned or textured pillows can help fill visual space and
will stand out nicely against white or blank
walls.
Prop Up Heavier Items Against a Wall
Propping up larger decor items, such as
tall
mirrors, can be an easy way to make a
room feel bigger. You might consider placing these types of
mirrors near or across from windows as they will reflect light into the room
making it appear brighter.
Use Adhesive Strips
If you’ve always dreamed of installing a gallery wall, adhesive strips
can become your new best friend. They are easy to apply, hold
strong, and won’t cause damage if removed
properly. Be sure to follow directions
for best results.
Bring Life to Your Space with House Plants
While renting can often mean no garden space, you can create that lush,
earthy-feeling indoors by incorporating live houseplants. Plants can quickly transform an otherwise dull or un-inviting
space. They even provide health benefits, such as improving air quality, and
can even improve your mood by lowering stress
and anxiety.
Use Peel and Stick Tiles
Similar to removable wallpaper and decals, peel and stick tiles are an
easy and inexpensive
way to transform a space. You might consider adding subway tile to
your bathroom or in your
kitchen as a backsplash for a cleaner, more elevated look.
Install Damage-Free Window Treatments
You can use thin curtain
rods and adhesive hooks to hang up lightweight curtains without having to
permanently install hardware. Simply stick your adhesive hooks to the wall and
place the curtain
rods inside. Consider using multiple hooks for additional support. PRO
TIP: You can buy adhesive hooks in a clear finish so that they blend into the
walls.
Change Out the Hardware
Changing the hardware on your
kitchen or bathroom cabinets is an
easy way to give the room a quick refresh! It’s important that you store all of
the original hardware in a safe place so that when you
move you have them at hand to switch them back out.
Create Open Shelving
You can create your own open shelving by removing the
doors from the cabinetry in your
space. Be sure to store the cabinet doors and hardware in a safe, dry place
so that when it comes time to move, you can easily put them back on.
Make Your Own Headboard
Bring your sleeping space to life with a creative
DIY headboard. Try
using a reclaimed wood pallet, sand it down and design your own pattern to give
your room a beautiful focal point! You might also consider adding fabric to the
headboard for a more dramatic look!
Decorating your apartment can be an exciting experience despite some
limitations. That being said, you’ll want to be sure that your belongings are protected. Check out the
link below to contact an insurance agent and learn more about a
renter’s insurance policy with NYCM!
