Six Easy and Affordable Design Tips for Renters

When you move into an apartment, you’re limited as to how much you can decorate your apartment. Depending on how laissez-faire your landlord may be, you may be able to paint walls, hang new shades or even add fixtures to the walls. On the other end of the spectrum, you might not be able to put any nails in your walls or do anything that could risk losing your deposit. Here are six design tips for decorating your apartment:

• Ask your landlord for leniency: Many landlords use standard lease agreements that state you can’t do anything to your apartment without permission—including hang artwork, paint the walls or otherwise make it more to your taste. If you plan to be in your apartment for a while, however, it’s worth talking to your landlord. They may allow you to paint or hang artwork as long as you agree to repaint over it when you’re done.
• Add some interest to your walls: Even if you’re not allowed to repaint your walls, you can still add interest by buying some peel-and-stick wall art. Whether you want to add bold stripes, geometric designs or even a city skyline above the bookcases, beds or couch, these will allow you to change up the look without jeopardizing your deposit.
• Try new light fixtures: If you have room to store the old light fixtures, why not swap out the ugly, cheap ceiling fans and light fixtures with something pretty and modern? If you move, all you have to do is put the old fixtures back in place for the next tenant. Try pendant lights, modern fans and other fixtures that complement your own décor.
• Make your own “built-ins”: Your apartment probably didn’t come with any interesting built-ins—but you can make your own! Try adding large bookcases on either side of doorways or to make your own room dividers. You can paint them for a pop of bright color, or let them blend in with the rest of your surroundings. Not only is it a visual treat, but it will add much-needed storage to your apartment.
• Use mirrors: If you want to make your apartment look a lot bigger, invest in some mirrors. Lean large mirrors up against a wall to make the room appear instantly larger. You won’t have to hang them up, but they’ll double the visual space and natural light.
• Only keep the furniture you love: Finally, make sure you invest in good quality “transitional” furniture (pieces that can go from apartment to apartment with you). Choose furniture in neutrals that can work with a number of different design styles. While you might need to invest a little more at the outset, you’ll get far more use out of these pieces in the long run.

Decorating your apartment doesn’t have to be limiting when you follow these design tips.
If you’re looking for helping renting out or managing a residential property you own, call Valley Executives Real Estate & Property Management LLC today to learn more about how we can assist you.