I’ve been renting um…my whole life. So I’ve had to get crafty and figure out renter friendly ways to make my spaces still feel like home. Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or settle for bare walls and boring spaces. With a little creativity and a few budget-friendly DIYs, you can turn even the tiniest apartment into a cozy, personalized haven that reflects your style without risking your security deposit.
Here are some of my favorite renter-friendly ideas that blend form, function, and a whole lot of charm:
- Removable Wallpaper or Wall Decals
I hate plain apartment white walls but I was always scared to mess them up and get charged an arm, leg, hand and….my first born child. So discovering wall decals was a game changer for me. Peel-and-stick wallpaper or decals are a renter’s dream. They are super easy to apply, won’t damage walls, and come in endless patterns – from soft florals to bold geometrics. You can create a feature wall behind your bed, or add decals above your couch for a gallery-like feel.
Timeless tip: Try a subtle texture or neutral pattern for a timeless look you won’t get sick of in six months.
- Swap Out Hardware
Don’t underestimate the power of a new knob! You can replace standard drawer pulls in kitchens and cabinet knobs with vintage brass, matte black, or wooden ones for a custom look. You can even pretty easily swap out the sink hardware and the best part, there are options under $30. Pick whatever fits your style. Just remember to keep the originals tucked away so you can swap them back before moving out.
Here are some of my favorites:
30 Piece Kitchen Knobs (Under $25)
- Leaning Art & Mirrors
Hanging frames can be risky in rentals — but who says you have to? Be creative and lean larger art prints or mirrors against the wall on dressers, consoles, or even the floor. IKEA always has great prints that can be paired with one of their frames for under $50. It adds a relaxed, intentional vibe and still lets you show off your personality.
Bonus: Mirrors also help open up small spaces and bounce around natural light. This is a game changer if you have houseplants in your space!
- Plug-in Lighting Upgrades
Lighting can make or break the mood in any home, but many rentals come with harsh overheads or dim fixtures, yuck. But you don’t need to rewire anything to make it better. Also, you can change out the bulbs for grow lights if you want to make a cozy space and display for plants.
Swap out standard lamps for plug-in sconces or pendant lights — they add architectural charm and focused light, especially in reading nooks or next to beds. If you’re tight on space, try wall-mounted options with cord covers for a polished look. Want an even simpler fix? Add LED strip lights under cabinets or behind furniture for a cozy glow.
Here are some pictures for inspiration:
- Temporary Backsplashes
Rental kitchens and bathrooms often come with outdated or uninspired tiles that usually look worn anyways. If a full remodel isn’t an option (and let’s face it—it’s not), peel-and-stick backsplashes are your stylish workaround.
These vinyl or gel decals mimic tile, stone, or brick and can completely transform your space in an afternoon. They’re waterproof, easy to cut, and most importantly—fully removable. You can line your kitchen walls, bathroom sink area, or even create a tiled accent in your entryway.
Pro Styling Tip: Stick with timeless shapes like herringbone, square, or classic subway to avoid trend fatigue. Muted greens, whites, and terracottas pair beautifully with plant styling and neutral decor.
- Window Treatments that Wow
Yes, my favorite! These can change the whole mood of a space. I actually used these to redo a boring shower curtain in my bathroom (that’s a hack, hint hint). Basic blinds aren’t doing your apartment any favors. Elevate your windows by layering in soft, natural textures—think linen-look curtains on tension rods or no-drill brackets that won’t damage the walls.
If your windows are small, hang the curtain rod higher and wider than the window frame. This trick elongates the space and makes ceilings feel taller. Opt for light, airy fabrics to let natural light in and keep things bright—perfect for highlighting your plants and greenery.
If you’re into boho, here is a styling idea: Add woven shades or bamboo roll-ups for a layered, earthy feel that ties in with your cozy, nature-inspired decor.
- Style with Greenery
You know I couldn’t leave this one out. Nothing makes a space feel more lived-in (and loved) than plants. Try small-space options like trailing pothos, ZZ plants, or philodenrons if you’re still building your plant confidence. Use terracotta pots for warmth, woven baskets for texture, and ceramic planters for a polished touch. Got no floor space? Go vertical, duh. Hanging planters, floating shelves, or tiered plant stands make it easy to bring the outdoors in—even in a corner or on a windowsill.
Timeless Renter Tip: Use vertical space—ladder shelves, window sills, or hanging planters with removable adhesive hooks are perfect for apartments.
- Rugs to Define & Cozy Up
In an open-concept or studio apartment, rugs will be your best friend. They add warmth, absorb sound, and — most importantly—help define different “zones” in your home. You can use one under your bed to anchor your sleeping space, another under a small table to make a faux dining nook, or a plush one in your “living room” zone.
Stick to neutral or vintage-inspired patterns that layer well with boho and greenery aesthetics. Jute, flatweave, or shag styles all work, depending on how much softness or structure you want underfoot.
Timeless Styling Note: Layer smaller rugs over a large neutral one for dimension—perfect if you’re working with hand-me-downs or budget finds!
- DIY Shelf Styling with Adhesive Hooks
This has always been a big one for me. I feel like using shelves, especially floating ones, really help further design your space. Shelving doesn’t have to mean power tools and drywall anchors. Use strong adhesive strips or renter-safe brackets to install lightweight floating shelves or display ledges.
These mini shelves are perfect for styling with small art prints, books, candles, or a little trailing greenery. It’s a great way to add personality, especially in awkward nooks like above the toilet, near your entryway, or above your desk.
Timeless Design Tip: Use a “rule of three” when styling—group objects in threes, mix textures (wood, glass, greenery), and vary height for visual interest.
- Create a Cozy Corner
Even in a small apartment, everyone deserves a space that feels like yours. Set aside a little corner — maybe by a window, in the bedroom, or just an empty wall and give it a purpose. It could be a reading nook, a journaling spot, or your go-to space for morning coffee like this one.
(insert kitchen nook picture)
Layer in a floor cushion or comfy chair, soft throw, a small table or crate, and warm lighting. Add a few personal items like a framed quote, your favorite book stack, or a diffuser with calming oils.
Intentional Living Reminder: Sometimes it’s not about having more space—it’s about carving out meaningful moments in the space you already have
The Bottom Line?
You don’t need a big budget—or permission from your landlord—to create a home you love. These renter-friendly DIY ideas are simple, affordable, and most importantly reversible, so you can infuse style, comfort, and personality into your apartment…one project at a time.
Which DIY are you tackling first? Tag me @mytimelesscomfort and show me your cozy upgrades!
Check out all my favorite DIY favorites and more here: My Favorites
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