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As renters, we often face limitations when it comes to making major alterations to our homes. However, that doesn’t mean we have to settle for a lackluster living space. With these renter-friendly decor ideas, you can easily and affordably revamp your rental house or apartment, making it more inviting, stylish, and functional.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best renter-friendly decor ideas that will breathe new life into your home. Say goodbye to plain walls and outdated fixtures, and say hello to a stylish and personalized space that reflects your taste and personality.
1. Peel-and-Stick Tiles
Stuck with a dated kitchen backsplash or bathroom tiles? Transform your rental space without the hassle of a renovation by using self-adhesive tile stickers. Peel-and-stick tiles come in a variety of patterns and designs, from intricate Moroccan-inspired motifs to classic subway tiles like these ones. They’re waterproof and durable, ensuring they can withstand moisture and daily wear and tear. When it’s time to move out, the stickers can easily be removed without leaving any residue behind, restoring the original tiles and ensuring you can keep your security deposit.
Get the Art3d 10-Sheet Peel and Stick Backsplash at Amazon for $29.99
2. Command Hooks
Command hooks are a renter’s best friend when it comes to hanging artwork, mirrors, or string lights without drilling holes into apartment walls. These adhesive hooks can hold a surprising amount of weight and come in different sizes and designs to suit your needs. This set of seven hooks can each hold 5 pounds of weight, making them perfect for creating a gallery wall of mid-sized artwork.
Get the Command Hooks at Amazon for $10.17
3. Cabinet Hardware
Give your kitchen or bathroom cabinets a quick and affordable makeover by replacing the existing handles and knobs with stylish alternatives. This set of 25 knobs comes in a timeless, round, beveled design that’s available in black, satin nickle, or oil-rubbed bronze. They come with customizable-length screws for a seamless installation.
Get the Ilyapa Flat Black 1.25-Inch Round Drawer Handles at Amazon for $21.99
4. Jute Area Rug
If your rental property comes with unattractive wall-to-wall carpeting, don’t despair. Instead, consider investing in a large area rug that can act as a visual centerpiece in the space. This one from Wayfair comes in a variety of sizes and is perfect for high-traffic areas because of its durability and stain resistance.
Get the Torbin Rug at Wayfair for $249.99
5. Pendant Lighting
It’s impossible to overstate the impact that lighting has in a space. Swapping out the existing light fixtures in your rental can make be a major improvement on the overall aesthetic. Consider replacing outdated or generic fixtures with statement pendant lights or modern designs that match your style. This pendant light from Wayfair can be hung alone in a smaller space or in a collection of two or three over a kitchen island.
Get the Wilbourn 1 – Light Single Pendant at Wayfair for $157.99
6. Temporary Window Film
Removable adhesive window film is a great solution if you want to enhance privacy or add a decorative touch to your windows. Available in a variety of patterns, frosted designs, and stained glass imitations, this film allows natural light to filter through while providing privacy day and night. It makes for a unique alternative to traditional window coverings, and when it’s time to move, you can simply peel off the film without leaving any residue. This pick offers 96% privacy while also blocking 96% of UV rays.
Get the Coavas Privacy Window Film at Amazon for $12.97
7. Cable Management Solutions
With the multitude of electronic devices in our homes, cords and cables can quickly become tangled and unsightly. Home owners can hide cords by creating holes in the walls for them to pass through, but renters have to get a little more creative. One solution is a cable management box like this one, which keeps cords and wires tidily tucked away.
Get the 2 Pack Large Cable Management Box at Amazon for $30.99
8. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a game-changer for renters looking to transform their space without damaging their walls. Whether you’re creating an accent wall or covering an entire room, this product is a great way to add a personal touch to a rental home. The best part is that it’s completely removable, with no residue left behind when it’s time to move out. This pick features a unique bird pattern and comes in a variety of colors.
Get the Tempaper x Genevieve Gorder Removable Peel and Stick Wallpaper at Amazon starting at $23.99
9. Room Divider
When you’re renting, you may not be able to add new walls, but you can purchase a room divider for a fraction of the cost. This one has a stylish woven construction and provides functional privacy while adding decorative flair to any space. It comes in several colors to suit a variety of stylistic preferences.
Get theElmina 6 Ft Folding Room Divider at Wayfair for $73.99
10. Vinyl Floor Sticker Tiles
Upgrade your rental’s flooring with removable vinyl floor decals that mimic the look of traditional tiles or patterns. These decals are easy to apply and can instantly transform a room, making it appear brighter and more stylish. Whether you want to cover up a worn-out floor or add a pop of color to a neutral space, vinyl floor decals like these ones are a cost-effective and temporary solution that can be easily removed when your lease is up.
Get the FloorPops FP2942 Medina Peel & Stick Floor Tiles at Amazon for $13.90 for 10 tiles
11. No-Drill Shelves
When you need extra storage or want to display plants or decor items, removable shelving units are a practical solution. These sleves can be adhere to the walls with command strips and don’t require rents to drill any holes. They can easily be repositioned as needed, providing even more flexibility.
Get the OAPRIRE Floating Shelves at Amazon for $24.99
12. Upgraded Fixtures
Renters can easily upgrade the look of their kitchen or bathroom by switching out standard faucets for more stylish versions, without making any permanent changes. This model fits with both modern and traditional decor styles and comes in a wide variety of finishes, from satin black to brushed gold.
Get the WB-0300B Widespread Faucet at Wayfair for $69.76
13. Stylish Window Treatments
Many rental homes and apartments come with basic window coverings that provide function but not style. However, renters can install attractive curtains, blinds, or shades that complement your decor and provide privacy while enhancing the overall aesthetic of your space. These matte velvet-look curtains come in a rainbow of colors and instantly make any space more cozy and inviting.
Get the Solid Luxury Matte Velvet at Wayfair for $119.99
14. Medicine Cabinet
Installing a mirrored medicine cabinet in a rental home not only adds a touch of style but also provides valuable extra storage space in the bathroom. This on-trend cabinet is designed to be easily mounted on the wall, offering a solution for organizing toiletries and enhancing your bathroom’s functionality. This solution does require drilling, so it’s best to consult your landlord before making a commitment.
Get the Elsie-Leigh Medicine Cabinet at Wayfair for $304.99
The prices listed here are accurate as of publication on May 25, 2023.
