Let’s face it, sometimes a rental can feel a bit lackluster. Good landlords should ensure the space is clean, functional, and safe but walls and fixtures are often very neutral to appeal to a wide range of potential tenants. So, how do you take your rented space and make it feel more like your own without investing a lot of money into someone else’s property? Here are a few tricks of the trade that will give you high impact with a low-price tag.

I know you’ve heard it before but paint can make a dramatic impact. Painting one central room in a moody or bright color can change the whole feeling of the space. Not only will that room have a great backdrop for art and furnishings but when you are in other rooms you will get a peak of the color from neighboring rooms.

If painting an entire room feels daunting another great design idea is just to paint the bottom 2/3 of the wall. This can create interest and mimic the effect of wainscoting. Check out the tone on tone example below.

*Note: Always check your rental contract before painting to see if it is allowed. Some landlords may allow you to paint if you paint over it prior to moving out.

The art you hang on the wall can make a huge statement. Many times, what a space is lacking is some type of focal point, and a large piece of art can provide that. However, spending the money on a large piece of art can feel daunting or even like too much of a commitment if you feel you might want to change your space up down the road. 

One of my favorite ways around this is create your own art. I know, I know…you may not be an artist per se but it’s amazing what you can create with a little imagination. Check out this fabulous custom artwork in designer Emily Henderson’s space and see how you can create something beautiful with paint and a few potatoes!

Yes, wallpaper is back and comes in so many amazing patterns from super floral and feminine to tiny modern microprints. What’s even better is it comes in a removable version that can be peeled off without hurting the surface it was one once you are ready to move out. One of my favorite sources is Etsy.com. Once you find a pattern you love there are so many ways you can be creative with it. Go big and a do a wall…or tackle a smaller project and give your fridge a whole new look like this makeover.

When I think about taking a space that I can’t do much with the major features (ie: can’t change the flooring or take down cabinets, change light fixtures, etc), and making it great…my mind goes to making what is in the space great. One of the best ways to make an impact is furniture. With that in mind my last suggestion for ways to make your rental your own is to focus on key furniture pieces. A great way to do that is by shopping local vintage and secondhand stores for wood furniture and painting it. When painting furniture I will offer two pieces of advice: 1) color selection is key…go for classic tones for longevity…black or navy for example 2) skip the faux aging…to keep things timeless don’t rub off paint to make the piece feel aged or add glazes for effect…let that process happen naturally over time. 

Your rental doesn’t have to feel boring or like it lacks character. With a little creativity and elbow grease you can turn your rental into a space that reflects your personality without emptying your pocketbook.