How To Bring Charm To Your Rental

I live in an apartment, so I know the common refrain: The blinds are ugly. The bathroom is butt ugly. The appliances are tacky. And it's just so damned generic.

Well, put your creative thinking cap on and let's figure out ways to do something about it!

Vinyl Floor Cloths

Enter vinyl floor cloths. They lay like rugs, but they're more heavy duty and quite durable. They can be cut to fit your space, so it's a temporary solution in what may be temporary digs. This one is from Spicher & Co.


Peel & Stick Tile Sheets

You can find these peel and stick tile sheets at your big box stores like Home Depot.


Window Film

You can use adhesive film for privacy or decoration.


Removable Wallpaper

As the name implies, this is removable wallpaper. This is becoming easier and easier to find these days.  

Just so you know, Limitless Walls is sending me some removable wallpaper for one wall in my apartment. I'll be showing that when I get it up. I'm planning on putting it on the wall behind my couch.

But if you don't want to commit to an entire wall or apartment, do something on a small scale. 

If you have a fabric that you just love, use it to create artistic wall art. 

You can use foam core/board for this project. Using spray adhesive, apply your fabric to the foam core, allowing a few inches of fabric to lay over and above the size of the foam core. 

Then when you have your fabric smoothed out, tape the extra fabric behind it.

You can find the foam core or board at office supply stores.


Tile Tattoos

These are temporary decals designed specifically for kitchens and bathrooms. 

There are other ways to make your home look custom "you." 

Change out the faucets. I had that done. 

Change the switch plates on the wall. Keep the ones that came with the apartment. And then if you move, put them back on and take the ones you purchased.

Change the cabinet hardware. 

Switch out the door knobs.

You can always switch these things back should you choose to move.

Get creative with Washi tape. It comes in so many colors and patterns now.


If the landlord will allow it, paint your walls. Just one accent wall can make a big difference in the overall look of things. 

With all the wonderful new products on the market today, there's so much you can do with a rental. Don't let the fact that you're renting keep you from having a home you truly love. 

As I always say, love it while you rent it!

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