We’ve all been renters at some point in time, and I especially know how hard and limiting it can be to try to decorate a rental apartment without doing too much damage. I’ve been afraid of making too many holes, spending too much money on home that is temporary and just investing too much time in trying to make something that isn’t mine, feel like me.
But the truth is, putting some holes in the wall is an easy fix. There are ways to get creative, ways to limit the damage but still make it feel like your own. And most importantly – making a space feel like a home is always important, whether you’re planning on staying for 6 months or 6 years.
Heaven knows I’ve learned this lesson, and then realized I spent too long enduring a place I disliked when I could have taken the time to make it feel like home. D’oh. So, now that we are all stuck at home for a while, here are some great ways that you can do to decorate a rental apartment – or any house, really.
Use Removable Wallpaper to Decorate a Rental Apartment
Can you believe that I was basically today years old when I discovered that removable wallpaper was a thing. I have always loved beautiful patterns and loved the idea of wallpaper, but was terrified of the commitment.
BUT! There are so many amazing removable wallpaper options out there – I wish I had known about it sooner. Even though we now own the house that we live in, I’ve been super hesitant in making big design changes – especially since it’s a new build. So, I’ve also been eyeing up some beautiful removable wallpaper patterns for my office. It’s easy to apply, most come with incredible instructions, and just as easy to remove (in case you need to more orrrrrrrr in case you hate it!
Hang a Nail Free Gallery Photo Wall
Ok – so I get that this might throw you off a bit – since a gallery photo frame wall usually involves a lot of nails. Enter these amazing damage-free strips that are changing the world for renters and homeowners alike. They come in all different sizes and the biggest size will hold up to 16lbs! When it’s time to switch things up or move, just pull the pictures from the wall, and pull the tab down on the sticky on the wall. Poof! Fresh wall with no damage.
Pinterest has tons of inspiration for gallery walls, and Etsy and Opposite Wall are two of my favourite destinations for great art prints to mix in with my photos. Remember you don’t always have to use photos either – you can create art by putting together a collection of what you already have. Baskets included!
Install Layered and Floating Shelves
Another great way to add some character to your walls with minimal damage is by hanging layered or stacked shelves. You will have to put a few holes in the wall, but this way, you are able to switch up your framed photos with ease, whenever the mood strikes you. Changing out frames is easy, without having to worry about new holes, covered old ones, etc. It’s also pretty awesome that ledge shelves have come a long way since the ones we’re use to seeing at Ikea!
Use Decals to Decorate a Rental Apartment
Removable decals work very similarly to removable wallpaper – they are simple to install and simple to remove. The nice part about the decals is that you can select where you want them to go, and not have to worry so much about lining things up, measuring out a wall or getting it straight! Once used for mostly nurseries, decals are now popping up in bedrooms, offices and even feature walls in kitchens as a great risk-free way to introduce some colour (or sleek monotones).
Use Temporary Tile Stickers
I know you guys know this already, but there is some terrible tile out there – both on the floor and on those kitchen backsplashes! Whether you are a renter or own, if you’re going to be in a place for a little while, but don’t have the interest or the funds to do major renovations, consider taking on a fun peel and stick project to transform your space.
Rental decoration solutions are kind of awesome for everyone – especially those (like me) who have commitment issues when it comes to decorating. Nothing is every really permanent, and this way different options can always be re-arranged and spruced up whenever you feel like it.
For me, it’s like a way of testing out a design to make sure you like it before investing more money in making it permanent. You learn more about your taste the more you experiment, and just because you live in a rental or somewhere temporarily, doesn’t mean you have to stop having fun!
Till next time,
