8 renter-friendly renovations to make your apartment feel like home, Permanent rental property refurb advice

Renter-friendly renovations to make apartment feel like home

16 September 2025

If you value a stylish home, it may be tempting to splurge on an expensive apartment with luxury finishes. But before you sign that lease, make sure that you still have enough wiggle room in your budget for emergencies and even everyday ups and downs.

Rent loans are helpful stopgaps if you find yourself in a pinch, but consider whether it might be more cost-effective to move into a more affordable place and improve it with your DIY skills instead.

Luckily, there are simple, renter-friendly ways to make your new apartment feel cozy, warm and personal without breaking the bank — or the rules of your lease.

Add peel-and-stick wallpaper

Plain walls can make your space feel unfinished. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a convenient way to add color, patterns and even textures to your home. The best part is that you can remove it later without damaging the walls.

Change your lights and lampshades

Lighting has a big impact on the feel of your apartment. If your lights are too harsh or bright, try switching your light bulbs to warmer ones for a softer glow. If your lights are too dim or yellow, swap out the bulbs for something brighter and cooler.

You may also be able to swap out the shades on your light fixtures. You can also add stylish table and floor lamps for better lighting.

Just make sure to keep the original light fixtures, bulbs and shades so you can put them back when you move out.

Use area rugs for coziness and a pop of color

If your apartment has cold, ugly or boring floors, area rugs may help. Rugs can make a room feel warmer and more inviting. Area rugs also add color and help define different spaces, like a reading corner or dining area.

Plus, rugs are easy to roll up and take with you when you move, so they’re also smart investments.

Hang art and photos without damaging the walls

You don’t need to drill holes to hang up your favorite family photos or art. You can use removable hooks or adhesive strips to mount your pictures on the wall, for example. Or, consider leaning your frames on shelves.

Using techniques that won’t ruin the wall can allow you to show off your memories, loved ones and style without losing your security deposit.

Add window treatments that fit your style

Blinds are functional but boring. Curtains can make your space feel more finished and more private.

You can hang your own curtains using tension rods or removable curtain hooks. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could even make the curtains yourself.

Upgrade your cabinet hardware

Sometimes, small changes make a huge difference. Swapping out drawer handles or cabinet knobs in your kitchen or bathroom can give these spaces a fresh, updated look.

Many stores sell affordable, stylish hardware with simple installation instructions. Just make sure to keep the original hardware so you can switch it back when you leave.

Use plants to bring life into your space

Plants are an easy and relatively affordable way to add color, life and freshness to your space. If you don’t have a green thumb, try low-maintenance plants like succulents, spider plants, aloe vera or snake plants.

As a bonus, plants can also help improve air quality and boost your mood. Some plants are poisonous for pets, however, so if you live with furry friends, make sure your new greenery is safe for them.

Create a relaxation corner

Everyone needs a spot to chill out, especially in their own home. Whether it’s a reading nook with a comfy chair and throw blanket or a gaming desk decorated with merch from your favorite geeky media, adding your own touch can give you a sense of ownership over the space.

Think about the things that bring you comfort and design your space around those ideas. Remember, it doesn’t have to be big — just yours.

Make your space your own

Renting doesn’t mean you have to live in a plain and impersonal space. With some creativity and a few renter-friendly upgrades, you can make any space feel like a home that reflects your style.

Just remember to check your lease before making any changes, and always choose options that are easy to remove or reverse.

Notice: Information provided in this article is for information purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views of e-architect.com or its employees. Please be sure to consult your financial advisor about your financial circumstances and options. This site may receive compensation from advertisers for links to third-party websites.

Comments on this guide to 8 Renter-Friendly Renovations to Make Your Apartment Feel Like Home article are welcome.

Architectural Design

Architectural Designs

Sea Breeze, Camber Sands beach, Sussex, England, UK
Design: RX Architects

photo : Richard Chivers
Sea Breeze on Camber Sands beach, East Sussex

Lake Cabin in Brabourne, Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Beauty, Southeast England, UK
Design: RX Architects

photo : Ashley Gendek
Lake Cabin in Kent Downs