13 Designer Tips to Make Your Rental Feel Like Home

As a renter myself, I know what it’s like. You want to live in a beautiful space but you don’t want to sink money into a space that isn’t yours. What to do? Below are renter-friendly updates that are removable as well as budget-friendly. Many of them can be taken with you when you move on from your current space. If you own your home, there’s still ideas for you here! So keep on reading.

1. Light fixtures

Swapping out the (most likely builder-grade) light fixtures that come with your rental is a surefire way to take your space from blah to gorgeous. Make sure to save the original light fixtures and put them back when you move. Then you can take your new light fixtures with you.  If you don’t want to go through the process of installing new fixtures, you can also add lamps to personalize your space. Find out more about that here. 

2. Curtains

Another way to make your space look glamorous! Curtains up the elegance factor in any space. These can also be easily taken with you since curtains are not exactly the same size as the window and can easily be adapted in your new space. For all the details you need to buy curtains, click here.

3. Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Removable wallpaper can add just the dose of charm you need to liven up your space and make it feel like home. Here is a funky option.  

4. Hardware

All you need is a screwdriver and you’re good to go! You can replace the hardware in your bathroom vanity, kitchen cabinets and furniture. When it’s time to move on, just unscrew, replace with the old hardware and you can bring your cool hardware with you. For my favorite cabinet hardware picks, click here. 

5. Showerhead

This is an oft overlooked but simple switch. Imagine a rainfall shower head in your bathroom. Who wouldn’t want that?

6. Doorknobs

Switching out a door knob is such a low cost yet high impact way to modernize your space.

7. Rugs

If you don’t like the flooring in your place, a rug is a great way to cover over any ugly flooring without breaking the bank. For my favorite rug picks, click here. 

8. Furniture

Invest in your furniture. You have to buy furniture anyway so might as well buy furniture that you like, that will update your space at the same time. 

9. Peel and Stick flooring

Another great hack! All you need to do is peel off the backing and stick to the floor. If you need to trim some pieces, all you’ll need is a pair of scissors. 

10. Paint

Hiring a painter can be an expensive commitment to a space you don’t own. But, if you’re willing to get down and dirty, paint can have such a huge impact on your space. Click here to get my free paint color guide so you won’t have to worry about which colors to choose.

11. Peel and Stick Backsplash

If your kitchen has an ugly backsplash (or no backsplash) putting up a cute backsplash can make such a big difference. Because this is temporary, you don’t have to be scared to go with a bold choice like this one. 

12. Countertops

A super cheap way to update your countertops is with contact paper. It does take some time and focus but it is so worth it! 

13. Hang Stuff on the Walls

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to show your personality by hanging up artwork and family photos on the walls. For ideas for how to hang family photos and artwork, click here and here. Your landlord doesn’t let you put nails in the wall? No problem! Whip out your command strips and you’re good to go.

I hope these tips help those of you who live in a rental to make your home feel more homey. And if you own your home, I hope you found some budget-friendly ideas to update your space. Enjoy!