Renting a furnished apartment gives you the convenience of moving into a fully equipped space without the hassle of buying furniture. But often, these apartments can feel impersonal or bland. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to decorate and make your rented space feel like home without damaging the property. Here's how you can personalize your furnished apartment while respecting the landlord's property.
1. Use Removable Wall Décor
The most challenging aspect of decorating a furnished rental is the walls. Many landlords prohibit holes or nails, but that doesn't mean you're stuck with bare walls.
- Command Hooks and Strips : These are perfect for hanging pictures, mirrors, or even lightweight shelves without causing damage. They come off cleanly when it's time to move out, making them an ideal option for renters. You can find Command Hooks and Strips on Amazon.
- Wall Decals and Stickers : These peel-and-stick options are a fun way to add color and personality to your walls. Choose designs that reflect your style, whether it's abstract art, floral patterns, or inspirational quotes. Explore a variety of Wall Decals and Stickers on Amazon.
- Fabric Wall Hangings : Tapestries or fabric wall hangings are a great way to cover large spaces without drilling holes. You can choose something vibrant or calming, depending on the vibe you want for your apartment. Browse Fabric Wall Hangings on Amazon.
2. Add Cozy Textiles and Fabrics
Without the option of replacing furniture, textiles are one of the easiest ways to inject personality and warmth into your rented apartment.
- Throw Pillows and Blankets : These are an instant and cost-effective way to brighten up your sofa or bed. You can easily switch them out whenever you want a new look or when your tastes change. Find Throw Pillows and Blankets on Amazon.
- Area Rugs : A stylish area rug can make a big difference in a furnished apartment, especially if the flooring is plain or doesn't match your style. Rugs also help to add warmth and comfort to your space. Just make sure it's sized appropriately for the room. Shop for Area Rugs on Amazon.
- Curtains : Change out any standard or basic curtains with ones that match your personal style. If the apartment is fully furnished, there may already be curtain rods, so swapping them out is an easy and non-invasive way to add character. Discover various Curtains on Amazon.
3. Use Multi-Functional Furniture Pieces
When renting a furnished apartment, you might be limited in terms of what you can change. However, you can still introduce functional and stylish pieces to maximize space and utility.
- Storage Ottomans or Coffee Tables : These can add extra seating and storage space, helping to reduce clutter while providing a modern, chic look to your living room. Look for Storage Ottomans or Coffee Tables on Amazon.
- Foldable Furniture : Invest in pieces like foldable desks or chairs that can be moved around easily and stored when not in use. This is especially useful if you're working with a smaller apartment. Explore Foldable Furniture on Amazon.
- Decorative Baskets or Boxes : Use baskets or boxes to store items and add texture and visual interest to your space. You can place them on shelves, tables, or under furniture for a more organized and stylish setup. Find Decorative Baskets or Boxes on Amazon.
4. Incorporate Greenery
Plants are a simple and effective way to add life to any room. Plus, they don't require permanent changes and can easily be moved around or replaced when needed.
- Potted Plants : Choose plants that are easy to maintain, like succulents, snake plants, or pothos. These can be placed on shelves, windowsills, or tables, adding greenery and vibrancy. Browse Potted Plants on Amazon.
- Hanging Planters : If you have a space with high ceilings, consider hanging planters from the ceiling using removable hooks. This allows you to bring nature indoors without taking up floor space. Shop for Hanging Planters on Amazon.
- Terrariums : If you're not great with caring for plants, terrariums are a great low-maintenance option. They add a unique visual element without requiring constant attention. Discover Terrariums on Amazon.
5. Use Temporary Flooring Solutions
If the floors in your furnished apartment aren't to your liking, consider adding temporary solutions that won't damage the original flooring.
- Area Rugs and Mats : As mentioned, area rugs are a great option to cover up unappealing floors. They can be easily rolled up and taken with you when you move out. Find a selection of Area Rugs and Mats on Amazon.
- Peel-and-Stick Tiles : If you want to change up the look of the kitchen or bathroom, consider peel-and-stick vinyl tiles. They are affordable, easy to apply, and can be removed without leaving a trace. Explore Peel-and-Stick Tiles on Amazon.
- Floor Mats : For added protection and style, use floor mats in high-traffic areas like entryways or hallways. These mats not only look great but also help protect the floors from dirt and wear. Shop for Floor Mats on Amazon.
6. Personalize with Art and Accessories
Art and accessories are key to adding your personal touch to a rented space.
- Framed Art : Invest in framed prints, photographs, or original art that speaks to your style. Choose frames that complement the furnishings without overwhelming the space. Browse Framed Art on Amazon.
- Decorative Mirrors : Mirrors can make a small space appear larger and brighter. Look for stylish mirrors that fit your aesthetic and are easy to hang using removable hooks. Find Decorative Mirrors on Amazon.
- Candles and Decorative Trays : Candles can add both ambiance and a fresh scent to your home. Use a decorative tray to arrange candles, vases, or other items on tables and countertops. Discover Candles and Decorative Trays on Amazon.
7. Create a Cozy Atmosphere with Lighting
Lighting plays a big role in the overall feel of your apartment. Even in a furnished rental, you can personalize the ambiance with some creative lighting solutions.
- Floor and Table Lamps : Swap out any harsh overhead lighting with soft floor or table lamps. This will create a more relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Shop for Floor and Table Lamps on Amazon.
- String Lights : Add string lights around windows or along the walls to bring warmth and a touch of whimsy to your space. They are especially great for creating a cozy, intimate vibe in living areas or bedrooms. Explore String Lights on Amazon.
- Smart Bulbs : If you can't change the fixtures, consider investing in smart bulbs that allow you to adjust the lighting to suit your mood or the time of day. Find Smart Bulbs on Amazon.
8. Utilize Shelving and Storage Solutions
Even though your apartment is furnished, you can still add extra storage and display space without making permanent changes.
- Free-Standing Shelves : Invest in stylish, free-standing shelves that can be placed against walls to display books, artwork, or other personal items. Browse Free-Standing Shelves on Amazon.
- Under-Bed Storage : Make use of any available space under your bed with storage bins or boxes. This helps keep your apartment organized and prevents clutter from piling up. Shop for Under-Bed Storage on Amazon.
- Closet Organizers : If closet space is limited, add organizers like hanging racks, hooks, or drawer dividers to maximize storage efficiency without damaging the space. Discover Closet Organizers on Amazon.
9. Stay Within Your Lease Terms
Lastly, always be sure to review your lease agreement and avoid any permanent changes that could risk your security deposit. Ensure that any modifications you make---whether it's installing a hook or adding wallpaper---are temporary and non-invasive.
- Consult Your Landlord : If you're unsure about making changes to the property, ask your landlord for approval. Most landlords appreciate when tenants are respectful of the property, and they might be open to small adjustments if you ask first.
Conclusion
Decorating a furnished apartment for rent doesn't have to be a challenge. With a little creativity and the right approach, you can make the space feel like your own without risking damage to the property. From removable wall decor to stylish textiles and personal accessories, there are countless ways to inject personality into your rented space. Just remember to always follow the terms of your lease, and you'll have a home that's both functional and uniquely yours.