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Rental Revolution: 15 Renter-Friendly Hacks to Unleash Your Style


Vibrant living room with plants, colorful cushions, a dog and cat on a blue sofa, and sunlight streaming through large windows.

Hey there, renters! You know the drill—you're living in someone else's space, and you're trying to make it feel like yours. But the ever-present fear of losing your security deposit can make even the most creative person second-guess their decorating decisions. Fear not! We've got you covered with 15 renter-friendly decorating hacks that will have your apartment looking like it was professionally styled—without a single nail hole in sight.


Let’s dive into it!



Pastel pink patterned wallpaper with geometric design behind a mint green couch and two pale pink cushions, creating a calm ambiance.

1. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper:

Who says you need to commit to ugly beige walls? Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a game changer. With so many stylish patterns and bold colours to choose from, it’s an easy way to add personality without the permanent commitment. Best part? It peels right off when you move out, so no damage to your walls. Try a statement wall in your living room or bathroom for instant wow factor.


Wall with art and plants: colorful fish painting, leaf print, wooden mask, green vase, potted plants, vintage camera, and small sculptures.

2. Command Hooks = Your BFF

Command hooks are like the magic of renter life. Want to hang up artwork, mirrors, or even fairy lights without drilling holes? These hooks are your go-to. They come in a variety of sizes, so you can hang practically anything. And when it’s time to move, just remove and bam—no damage, no drama.


A beige rug with abstract black and brown swirl patterns on a wooden floor. A brown chair with a white blanket sits in the corner.

3. Rugs, Rugs, Rugs

When in doubt, throw a rug on it! Rugs are one of the easiest ways to add style, warmth, and texture to any room without making permanent changes. Plus, they’re great for covering up less-than-ideal floors (looking at you, mystery stained carpet). Go for a bold pattern or a neutral tone, depending on your vibe. A rug makes everything feel more homey instantly.


Woven basket with green variegated leaves on a table. Soft, warm lighting creates a cozy, natural atmosphere. Blurred background.

4. Fake It 'Til You Make It (With Faux Plants)

Lacking a green thumb? Not only do modern faux plants look realistic, but they’re also super low-maintenance (no watering needed)! Plus, they add that pop of green that’s guaranteed to freshen up your space. Whether it's a snake plant or a large faux olive tree, you can’t go wrong. Don't forget about getting creative with the pots or plant hangers you choose to put the plants in!


Sunlit window with red gingham curtains creating a warm, cozy atmosphere. Light highlights the pattern, casting soft shadows.

5. Tension Rods for Custom Curtains

If your rental doesn't come with curtains, or you just don’t love what’s there, tension rods are a total lifesaver. They don’t require drilling, and you can easily swap out curtains to match your decor. Bonus: You can even use tension rods in closets to hang scarves and accessories.


Neatly folded towels and linens in white shelves, with woven baskets and a potted plant. Bright, organized, and tidy atmosphere.

6. Furniture with Storage Is a Must

Maximize your space with furniture that has built-in storage. Think storage ottomans, bookshelves with baskets, or even a bed with drawers underneath. Not only does it make your apartment feel less cluttered, but it’s also functional and stylish.


Cozy living room with a beige sofa, guitar by a brick fireplace, large plants, TV, and woven light fixture. Bright, airy, and inviting.

7. Swap Out Lighting Fixtures

Lighting is often one of the most overlooked aspects of rental decor. But swapping out your outdated lighting fixtures (don't get me started on the dreaded "boob" lights) is a quick and affordable way to refresh your space. Check out secondhand stores like Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores or local home improvement thrift shops for great deals on stylish, vintage, or unique light fixtures. Most of the time you can find light fixtures that are as good as new or even still in the box completely unused, and installing them is as easy as unscrewing a couple of bolts. Your place will go from basic to brilliant in minutes! Just be sure to turn off the power from your breaker box before you begin!


Colorful wall gallery with mixed art and photos, including portraits and abstract pieces. A copper lamp and green plants add vibrancy.

8. Decorate with Personal Photos and Art

This is where those command strips come in clutch! Check out thrift stores and dollar stores to find affordable frames to turn your memories into art. Try spray painting the frames in different colours for a more bold and eclectic vibe. Think about old maps of places you've visited, concert tickets, old t-shirts, or ask your friends if they have any cool pieces they are no longer using in their home! By displaying unique and personal pieces from your life, your personality will shine through, creating a warm and interesting space.


Golden couch with a red knit throw and blue patterned pillow in a cozy room. Bookshelf and plant in background create a warm atmosphere.

9. Finding Furniture You Love (And Your Wallet Will Too!)

Furniture is essential for creating a personal space, but it doesn’t need to break the bank. Look for pieces in your local classifieds and on Marketplace that speak to your style. You’ll be surprised at what you can find—whether it’s a vintage couch, a mid-century modern dining table, or a quirky coffee table. I once came across a woman on Marketplace that would go to auctions and pick up furniture, she had a storage locker that I could go and shop from. She was a life saver when I downsized houses and needed to furnish an entire home. It's often more affordable and customizable than buying from big-box stores, and buying secondhand helps reduce waste! Just make sure to take measurements before you buy, so everything fits just right in your space.


Bohemian-themed room with a blue and green mandala tapestry, patterned cushions on a bed, a tall lamp, tropical plant, and a radio.

10. Create a Feature Wall with Art or Fabric

Want a bold statement wall, but without the permanent changes? Use large-scale fabric or framed art to create a faux feature wall. Stretch fabric over a canvas frame or hang up oversized prints to make your space pop—no nails required! You can often find cheap canvases at dollar stores to make this an extremely affordable DIY!


Decorative pillow with orange and purple patterns rests on a dark gray couch with a green blanket. Neutral background.

11. Elevate Your Space with Throw Pillows

Throw pillows are a fun and budget-friendly way to add personality to any room. Mix and match textures, colours, and patterns to bring a playful vibe to your couch or bed. Plus, they’re super easy to swap out whenever you feel like changing up your look.

P.S. Check out my blog post all about the power of throw pillows!


Light green cabinet with rattan doors, topped with an arrangement of flowers in glass vases, a card, and a lamp with a pleated shade.

12. Repurpose Old Furniture with Fresh Paint

Have an old, outdated piece of furniture lying around? Give it new life with a fresh coat of paint. Whether it’s a dresser, coffee table, or nightstand, a little DIY love can completely transform the piece. Just be sure to pick a colour that fits with the rest of your room!


Modern kitchen with gold faucet, white marble countertop, and black cabinets. White subway tile backsplash and stainless steel stove.

13. Vinyl Wrap for a Kitchen Makeover

Want to give your kitchen a new look without replacing everything? Use vinyl wrap or contact paper on your cabinets and counters! It’s an easy and affordable way to update old, worn-out surfaces with a sleek, modern look. You can find contact paper in a variety of colours and patterns—from marble to woodgrain to matte black. Warning: While it’s easy to apply, removing vinyl wrap can be tricky and might leave behind some sticky residue, so be sure to test a small section before you go full throttle.


Cozy living room with a gray sofa, plants on windowsill, a black dog sleeping on a rug, and a brown dog on a mat. Bright and serene.

14. Remove Ugly Blinds (Like Vertical Ones)

Old blinds—especially those pesky vertical ones—can really bring down the vibe of a room. The good news is, blinds are usually easy to remove and reinstall. Just take a picture or label the cords and brackets so you can reinstall them when you move out (hello, security deposit!). Replace them with curtains that add personality and warmth to your space. With just a rod and some stylish drapes, your room will feel instantly cozier and more personalized.


Bedroom with a neatly made bed featuring patterned pillows and a striped throw. Green plants decorate the room, creating a cozy, vibrant mood.

15. Swap Out Bulbs for an Instantly Cozier Vibe

Lighting can totally transform a room’s vibe—and swapping out your light bulbs is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to set the mood. Opt for warmer bulbs (2700K–3000K) to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, perfect for those relaxed nights at home. If you’re feeling extra fancy, smart bulbs are a great option. You can control the brightness, set the colour, or switch up the ambiance with just the click of a button. Whether you're hosting friends or lounging on the couch, the right lighting can make your space feel like a welcoming haven.


Bonus Tip: Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Permission

The worst a landlord can say is “No.” If you’re really itching to paint that room or update the kitchen cabinets, don’t be afraid to ask for permission! Many landlords will be open to you making upgrades—especially if it means improving the space—and you may be surprised by how many will approve simple changes as long as you clear it with them first. So go ahead and reach out! It could be your ticket to a more personalized, stylish home.


There you have it! 15 renter-friendly decorating hacks that won’t just make your place look amazing but also ensure you get your full security deposit back. So, get creative, have fun, and start making your rental feel like home—without any fear of losing your deposit. Happy decorating!


Share your renter-friendly hacks with me in the comments, or tag me in your posts on Instagram and Pinterest!



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