Styling an outfit is one thing but styling a home is a whole other thing. One of the biggest projects to date I am currently tackling is my apartment makeover. Since sharing my bedroom makeover for a collaboration with Lull bed, I have actually been receiving more questions about home decor! I personally love that you’ve asked and it just so happens that interior design is also a love of mine. Luckily, I have a great foundation to start with, but, I definitely want to do some upgrades to make my home a little more “photogenic”.

Even if you are renting, there are still steps you can take to transform your space into one that reflects your personal style. While major overhauls like knocking down walls, getting a new roof (remember to read those roofing contractor reviews), or redoing floors may not be possible, small changes and additions can make a world of difference. Not sure where to start? Below are 12 simple suggestions to tackle to customize and upgrade your home.

1. Love your lighting. One of the worst things about rental units is often the outdated light fixtures. Luckily, this is also one of the easiest switches. Simply swap out that light fixture for something more your style.
Lighting won’t eat into your budget too much so head to your local lighting showroom or take a look online. You might want to brighten your space with Sunmory, this is gorgeous multi use lighting that you will adore and fall in love with.
2. Replace the kitchen faucet. This one might seem like a simple fix but it will make a huge difference. Simply swapping out the old tired faucet can make a huge difference in a tired kitchen. Now might also be a good time to look into improving your water to remove harmful contaminants and keep your drinking water safe. One idea is to install a water filtration system from Leaf Home so you can give yourself peace of mind and ensure better-tasting and safer water to enjoy. With water purification solutions you can protect your health and achieve cleaner water.
3. Switch out cabinet handles and pulls. For those wanting another quick fix, swapping out boring cabinet hardware can transform the look of a space in an instant. If you really want to get creative, consider using unusual materials like glass or precious stones for knobs or handles. Anthropologie is a great place to grab some cute and unique knobs!
4. Decorate with plants. Greenery is an excellent way to bring a fresh and airy feel to any space, especially when a patio or terrace is out of the picture. It’s always nice to bring a small piece of the outdoors inside. Not to mention the perks of cleaner air. Where you place your plants matters too, from a shelving unit with greenery that bookends your books, or a nice addition to a cabinet custom crafted by a trusted glass company.
5. Add a rug. Layering multiple rugs for a more customized and eclectic look is a simple way to upgrade a room.
6. Add new cushions to the mix. One of my favorite ways to change around my room is to add new pillows to the couch. This is such a simple fix and you can find great pillows just about anywhere and at every budget. Style tip: mix and match textures, sizes and colors to get the ultimate styled feel.
7. Cover up with contact paper. Another favorite trick of mine is to use contact paper. You can easily cover boring counterops and inside of cabinets. Targe and Lowe’s have a pretty good selection.
8. Washi Accent Wall. Not able to paint or wallpaper your walls? An easy fix is to create a small pattern repeated with something as simple as washi tape. Washi tape is available in many different colors but even a simple black design on a white wall will do wonders.
9: Add a signature design feature. Sometimes all you need is an item that draws the eye and brings a whole room together. Even something seemingly simple like wholesale granite slabs as a decorative feature can add an interesting and earthy flair to your home. Have fun with it and look around for different pieces to fall in love with and maybe take with you to your next home.
10. Sneaky Stainless Makeover. Do those old and dull appliances have you down? Simply purchase some stainless steel contact paper to make your appliances like your dishwasher and fridge looking modern in no time.
11. Shower in Luxury. Adding a new showerhead can completely change the game. Often most overlooked and also the most simplest change you can make to upgrade your rental!
12. New window treatments. Boring blinds got you down? It’s an easy fix to add curtains to bring new life to any room. When you’re in a rental property, you always want to look for additions and accessories to enhance the features that are already there. Although you won’t be able to change your home structurally, you can certainly find bespoke ways to add your own sense of style and comfort. Looking into new window treatments such as custom blinds will not only transform certain areas of your home, but it will also add a touch of your own personality to your space. If you’re looking for an inexpensive and effective upgrade, bespoke window treatments such as blinds and curtains are the ideal way to make your rental property feel like home.
13. Add bathroom accessories. Don’t settle for a boring bathroom; outfit it with design-forward towels and soap holders. Interesting options include West Elm, Target or Ikea depending on your budget. Choose from gold, pink, green, and glossy black or white accents.
14. Upgrade the roof. The roof keeps your rental home safe and secure, as well as protecting it from the elements. It could be worth upgrading your roofing because of that. There are plenty of options to pick from, like metal roofing. Go with the option that best suits your rental property.
HOME DECOR PLACES WE LOVE SHOPPING:
ANTHROPOLOGIE | URBAN OUTFITTERS | CB2 | AMAZON | IKEA | Z GALLERIE | OVERSTOCK | APT2B | TJMAXX | WEST ELM | ONE KINGS LANE | JOSS & MAIN | SERENA & LILY | ALL MODERN
That’s the truth! I struggle with home decor more than clothes. Some of the places you listed are my favs. Ohh what about Overstock?
I like the part about adding rugs, they’re an easy accent and easy way to throw in/change out things.
Used and secondhand rugs are good options that are inexpensive, just be sure to get them cleaned by a professional (https://www.chemdryacadiana.com/area-rug-cleaning/) so you’re sure that you’re not bringing dirt and allergens into your home.
https://esalerugs.com/ is a good place to find rugs, I like to cruise their clearance section
Great idea! xx
This is a great blog. I am pretty much impressed with your good work. You put really very helpful information.
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Thank you Floria!!