Living in a rental can put a significant damper on your interior design options. With unchangeable fixtures and cabinets, blasé paint colors, and the threat of losing your security deposit if you make changes, a lot of renters suppress their personal style and force themselves to live with builder-grade basic – But it doesn’t have to be this way. Get creative with your furniture and accessories, you can have a colorful and inviting home without sacrificing your deposit or infuriating your landlord.
Color to the walls
Many homeowners choose to paint the walls as a fairly easier way to bring color to a space. But landlords and property managers often forbid changing a rental’s interior paint color. Think beyond paint and you’ll discover a multitude of ways to dress up your walls without touching a paintbrush. The key is to think big and creatively when it comes to finding ways to cover boring walls.
Find oversized art pieces that speak to your style and feature punchy colors. Collect favorite snapshots in ombre frames of your favorite hue instead of traditional black or white, and assemble a gallery wall.
Style it up
Rental apartments or homes often come equipped with boring or outdated cabinets, fixtures and flooring that can’t be altered. Beige, brown, and off-white are the norm for these spaces, but that doesn’t mean you have to let it restrict your style.
Add visual interest and draw attention by bringing in splashy pieces of furniture and decor. Look for pieces in your favorite color or choose a theme, like sunny yellow and coral, to drown out the drab.
Vibrant painted wood chairs can give your dining space some zing, or purchase a couch or chair in a daring tone like emerald or sapphire. Too expensive to make such changes? Go DIY. Find furniture sets with good bones at your local thrift shop or garage sale, and give it a transformation. Use spray paint for smaller decor pieces, and latex or chalk paint for dressers and side tables.
Soft goods, bold tones
Textiles in an assortment of rainbow colors will be your best friends when it comes to dressing up your outdated or dull apartment. Start with an attractive rug in a rich jewel tone or a stylish over-dyed hue. Stay away from traditional white and beige curtains, and instead opt for a bright color or lively pattern.
The same goes for bedding. White may be a traditional go-to for duvet covers, but in the case of a blah apartment, pick a print or hue that will make your bedroom an energizing getaway or relaxing retreat. If you’re looking for a calm vibe, search for a bed set in cool indigo, lavender, or sage.
Fun throw pillows and blankets will spice up your bed, couch, lounge chairs and more. Keep the color trend going into the bathroom and kitchen by choosing pretty hand towels and bath-mats. You’ll be happier for the design boost and your landlord will be glad you haven’t made any big changes. That’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.
