Home Decor

5 Decorating Tips for Home Renters

Many home renters feel limited in decorating when they rent instead of own their home. Although it is always wise to consult your landlord and terms of your lease before making any alterations to the property, with permission there are some easy ways to decorate your rental to make it feel like home. Today we will explore 5 decorating tips that every renter can easily implement to claim your space as your own.

Tip 1: Change out your light fixtures.

Dated light fixtures or ugly ceiling fans are easy to swap out and can instantly update the look and feel of a room. Store the original fixtures in a well-labeled box so that you are able to reinstall the originals when you move. Your new fixtures can move with you when the time comes. If your budget doesn’t allow for brand new fixtures, look for ways to update the lighting with some DIY creativity and low wattage light bulbs. A globe cut in half, a drum shade, or even a birdcage can be placed over existing fixtures to add interest and personality.

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Tip 2: Update the walls with removable decor.

There are many ways to update plain white walls without causing damage to the walls. If you are not allowed to paint the walls, consider updating them with removable wallpaper, starch and fabric, fabric covered foam board, or even maps hung with removable tape. These methods will allow you to stay on trend without anything permanent or damaging to the existing decor.

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Tip 3: Use rugs to cover ugly flooring.

Unsightly carpet, tile, or linoleum can easily be covered up with a large area rug. If budget is a concern, look for plain inexpensive rugs that can be stenciled and painted with regular latex paint to get a custom look on-the-cheap.

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Tip 4: Add color with toss pillows, throws, curtains, and painted lamps and furniture.

If the walls of your rental are all white or the dreaded “builder’s beige”, never fear. You can add flavor and spice to your new digs with the help of colorful accessories. Toss pillows and colorful throws are fantastic and inexpensive ways to add pops of color throughout a room. Choose window treatments in chic geometric patterns to update the space and remember to hang curtain rods “wide and high” above your windows to elongate the look of the windows and add drama. Painted lamps and furniture also do wonders to incorporate more color into a room.

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Tip 5: Add natural elements from the outdoors to your space.

Whether you rent or own, every room in your house will look better with fresh flowers and plants. A small nosegay on a nightstand or in the washroom goes a long way towards making your home feel more cheerful. If keeping plants alive is a concern, consider using hardy succulents or air plants which do not require as much watering. Branches, acorns, shells, and pinecones all can be used seasonally to add warmth and charm to your space.

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