10 Rental Decor Tips to Instantly Elevate Your Apartment (No Damage Required!)
- Beril Yilmaz
- Mar 14
- 4 min read
Renting comes with plenty of perks—less maintenance, fewer financial commitments, and the freedom to move when adventure calls. But one common challenge renters face? Making a space feel like theirs without risking that precious security deposit. The good news is that you don’t have to settle for bland walls, outdated fixtures, or a space that lacks personality.
With the right approach, you can transform your rental into a stylish, cozy, and functional home. Whether you’re in a high-rise apartment, a suburban townhouse, or a charming studio, these rental decor tips will help you create a space that truly reflects your style—without making permanent changes.
Ready to elevate your rental? Here are the best ways to make a big impact with temporary, landlord-friendly decor ideas.
1. Rental Decor Tips: Add Temporary Wallpaper for Instant Personality
One of the easiest ways to breathe life into a rental is by using removable wallpaper. Available in a variety of patterns, textures, and colors, peel-and-stick wallpaper lets you create an accent wall or completely transform a room—without the commitment of paint.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re hesitant about wallpapering an entire room, try it in small spaces like an entryway, behind bookshelves, or even inside cabinet doors for a fun pop of color.
When it’s time to move out, simply peel it off—no residue, no damage, no stress!
2. Rental Decor Tips: Swap Out Hardware for a Custom Look
The little details can make all the difference. A quick and easy way to upgrade a rental is by swapping out old cabinet handles, drawer pulls, and even doorknobs.
Look for stylish hardware in brass, matte black, or a unique finish that fits your aesthetic. These small changes can instantly modernize a kitchen, bathroom, or dresser—without requiring any major renovations.
💡 Bonus: Keep the original hardware in a safe place so you can swap it back before moving out!
3. Rental Decor Tips: Use Rugs to Define Spaces & Add Warmth
Rentals often come with standard flooring that might not match your style. Whether it’s cold tile, worn-out carpet, or outdated linoleum, area rugs can work wonders in transforming a space.
Use a large area rug to anchor your living room and create a cozy atmosphere.
Try layering rugs for added texture and dimension.
Place runners in hallways to make them feel more inviting.
Since rugs are temporary and transportable, they’re the perfect way to add warmth, color, and character without altering the flooring.
4. Rental Decor Tips: Install No-Drill Shelving & Storage Solutions
Lack of storage is a common rental woe. The good news? There are plenty of damage-free storage solutions to maximize space and keep your home organized:
Adhesive floating shelves – Perfect for displaying books, plants, or decor.
Tension rods – Great for creating additional closet space or hanging curtains.
Over-the-door organizers – Ideal for shoes, accessories, and bathroom essentials.
These easy additions help make a rental feel more functional without drilling holes or causing permanent damage.
5. Rental Decor Tips: Upgrade Lighting for Instant Ambiance
Lighting plays a huge role in setting the mood of a space, but many rentals come with harsh overhead lights or outdated fixtures. The fix? Layered lighting!
Table and floor lamps – Add warmth and dimension.
Plug-in sconces – A stylish, non-permanent alternative to wall-mounted fixtures.
Smart LED bulbs – Change the color temperature to create different moods.
If your landlord allows, you can even replace ceiling light fixtures with a statement pendant—just keep the original to swap back when you move!
6. Rental Decor Tips: Use Command Hooks & Strips for Damage-Free Wall Decor
Hanging artwork, mirrors, and decor doesn’t have to mean drilling into walls. Command hooks and strips are a renter’s best friend, allowing you to decorate without causing damage.
Ideas for wall decor:
A gallery wall with framed prints or personal photos.
Oversized mirrors to make small spaces feel larger.
Hanging planters for a fresh, lively touch.
With a little creativity, you can turn blank walls into a reflection of your personality—without losing your deposit.
7. Rental Decor Tips: Bring in Plants for Life & Color
Few things make a rental feel more homey than houseplants. They add texture, color, and a sense of calm to any space. Plus, they’re completely move-out friendly!
Easy-to-care-for plants for renters:
Snake plants – Thrive in low light and require minimal care.
Pothos – Fast-growing and great for hanging planters.
ZZ plants – Practically indestructible and perfect for busy renters.
If you’re short on natural light, opt for stylish faux plants—same vibe, no maintenance!
8. Rental Decor Tips: Make Your Space Cozy with Textiles
Textiles like throw blankets, pillows, and curtains can instantly soften a space and make it feel more inviting.
Opt for soft, textured pillows to add depth to your sofa.
Layer cozy throws on chairs and beds.
Hang floor-length curtains to add height and drama.
These small touches create a warm and personalized atmosphere—without any permanent changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I paint my rental?
It depends on your lease agreement. Some landlords allow it if you repaint before moving out. If not, try removable wallpaper or wall decals!
2. How can I make a rental kitchen look better?
Swap cabinet hardware, use peel-and-stick backsplash tiles, and add stylish accessories like a cute rug or open shelving with Command hooks.
3. What’s the best way to hang things without nails?
Command strips, adhesive hooks, and no-drill wall mounts are the best renter-friendly options.
Ready to Transform Your Rental? Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life!
At BY Design And Viz, we specialize in interior and exterior design solutions that bring your dream space to life—whether you own or rent. Our expert team can help you create a stylish, functional home that fits your needs without permanent changes.
Book a consultation today and let’s make your rental feel like home!
