Renting comes with many perks, even though not many people see it that way. You get more leeway when it comes to moving, fewer obligations, and, in many cases, you even save money by not paying a mortgage. Still, much like everything else in life, renting comes with some downsides as well. Those who have experienced it will agree that a lack of freedom regarding the personalization of living space is the biggest one. Depending on your lease and your landlord's attitude, your options for personalizing your rental apartment might be very limited. However, the important thing to remember is that you still have some! Keep reading to find out how you can turn those dull walls into a home.
1. Experiment with removable wallpaper
If painting those drab walls is not an option, removable wallpaper could be the solution to all your problems. Moreover, with an abundance of patterns and colors available on the market, this might even be the best solution you have for personalizing your rental apartment.
Depending on the style and aesthetic you want to achieve, you can take many different approaches. An accent wall with a bold, colorful pattern could be enough to make your entire home stand out. On the other hand, if you opt for something tamer or simply don't care about the rules, you can go all out!
The best thing is, you can quickly transform your entire apartment if you get bored of the pattern. And you won't have to spend a fortune to do so!
2. Create some art
Artwork is the ultimate form of self-expression in interior design. You can give your living space a complete makeover just by adding a few unique pieces.
Be it paintings, illustrations, or any other form of art, let your creativity run wild by creating personalized decor for your apartment. The bigger, the better! Additionally, if you have talented friends, you can ask them to participate or contribute with their own pieces. You can even turn this project into a fun night you will remember and cherish forever.
However, make sure to avoid cluttering your rental with too many decorative items and knick-knacks. Keep your place stylish and in check by taking full advantage of a storage unit.
3. Add temporary flare to your kitchen and bathroom
Before you even start looking for an apartment, you need to come to terms with the fact that you probably won't be able to find one that ticks all of your boxes. More often than not, rentals don't come with Pinterest-worthy bathrooms and kitchens, which is understandable since their remodeling comes with a hefty price tag. However, this doesn't mean there is nothing you can do about these rooms.
Here, you can take advantage of another sticky solution - waterproof wallpaper! This will allow you to hide old bathroom tiles, and you can even use it to create a fun backsplash in the kitchen.
4. Spice things up with new hardware
While we are still on the topic of kitchens, replacing the hardware, doorknobs, and cabinet pulls is another excellent way to personalize your rental without losing your security deposit. This might seem like an insignificant detail, but don't underestimate its power when it comes to transforming your living space.
If you feel like changing the hardware won't be enough, you can go the extra mile by upgrading your cabinets and even appliances with contact paper. With these two simple solutions, you could have an entirely new cook space with minimal effort and investment.
5. Personalize your rental with greenery
House plants are one of the most harmless ways to add more personality to a rental. They are cheap, come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and have the ability to add a breath of fresh air to any space.
If you are not already an avid plant parent, make sure to research different species that can thrive in the conditions your rental provides. People often go crazy in nurseries only for a series of plant burials to occur a couple of weeks later. By choosing the right kinds, you will keep your living space looking lush until, at least, the end of your lease!
6. Sweep imperfections under the rug – literally
Expensive, new hardwood floors are something you are unlikely to find in a rental. As per the experts at Easy Move KW, worn-out, squeaky, or, at the very least, dull flooring is a much more common occurrence. Still, there is no reason to panic. All imperfections can be covered with area rugs! They are good not only for personalizing your rental apartment, but they can also add a dose of luxury and comfort to your living space.
Place them strategically, and even layer a couple of different rugs on top of each other for a more complex look.
7. Play with the layout of your furniture
The original layout of your rental apartment might not be what works best for you. After all, we all have different needs, routines, and preferences, so it's only logical you will have to move a few things around. But besides practicality, playing with the furniture layout can be an excellent way to make the space feel like home.
Don't be afraid to think outside the box and try a few combinations. Make sure to use bigger pieces of furniture to divide the space if your apartment is small. Once you find the right combo, everything else will fall into place!
Final thoughts on personalizing your rental apartment
As a renter, you don't have as much freedom to express yourself in your living space as homeowners do. Still, there is no room for despair. A touch of creativity and effort is all you really need for personalizing your rental apartment. And, who knows - your landlord might be willing to make a few exceptions if you prove to be a responsible tenant! Either way, you will surely manage to make the rental homier with these tips.
Meta description: Want to feel more comfortable and at home in your rental? Take a look at these 7 tips for personalizing your rental apartment.
Author bio
Eva Tyler is a content creator and self-proclaimed interior design enthusiast. She loves coming up with creative DIY projects and educating people on fun and affordable ways to spruce up their homes. When she is not rummaging through Pinterest, you can find her enjoying the company of her two cats and husband in her garden.