33 Renter-Friendly Decorating Ideas That Make Any Space Feel Like Home

Renting doesn't mean you're stuck with builder-grade finishes, boring blinds and blank, white walls. From removable wallpaper and renter-friendly storage solutions to easy kitchen upgrades and temporary decor ideas, these smart DIY projects will help personalize your apartment or rental home — all without risking your security deposit.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper makes it easy to add personality to a rental without making a permanent change. From oversized murals to classic patterns and textured looks, removable wallpaper can instantly create a look that feels custom while remaining landlord-friendly.

If you can't wallpaper your rental, then why not try framing your favorite wallpaper instead? To save money, you can buy just a sample of your favorite print and display it in a gorgeous frame. Now you can have your wallpaper and your rental deposit, too!

Let's talk floors. Scratched hardwood and stained carpet are just the beginning. Before moving in, it never hurts to have the floors professionally cleaned. But if they still look like a mess, area rugs will be your new best friend. Place them over hardwood and even over carpet for a clean, updated look that is all you.

One of the worst things about rental units has got to be the outdated light fixtures. Luckily, this is also one of the easiest switches. Simply swap out that light fixture for something more your style. Just be sure to reattach the original fixture before moving out.

One change that makes a huge difference, but is often overlooked, is the showerhead. This is one of those upgrades that is worth spending some extra dough. After all, when you're ready to move, simply reattach the old fixture and take yours to your new abode. Make barely-drizzling showerheads a thing of the past!

If you love the idea of temporary wallpaper but can’t commit to the price tag, you need to discover the joy that is starched wall fabric. It peels right off, and has the potential to add a ton of color, pattern and even texture to your home.

Bland blinds have the power to make any room feel like a cheap motel. Even if you have to leave them up, patterned drapes layered on top can take your window treatments to a whole new level.

A great way to add some personality to your rented space is to simply switch out those basic door knobs with some that suit your taste. Just make sure you switch back to the originals before you move out.

No backsplash? No problem. Update your rental with vinyl adhesive shiplap. It's a little weathered but not so rustic it won’t look at home with a few modern accessories.

Want more space instantly? Add a large mirror to any room, and the visual effect is bound to make your space feel bigger and brighter, all without knocking down a single wall.

An accent wall can really change the overall vibe of a room, especially when it brings warmth or unique texture into the space. You can use vinyl flooring planks attached to the wall using temporary strips, or nail in wood slats (as seen here). Just be sure to remove the wood and patch the nail holes before you move out.

Do you secretly long for a wall of custom built-ins, knowing that your landlord would recoil at the thought? These simple wood plan and bracket shelves offer plenty of shelf space and can be attached with just a few screws, leaving holes that can be easily filled and painted over upon your departure.

Using peel-and-stick tiles on the walls, especially in cook zones, not only protects the wall, but it’ll punch up your kitchen’s appeal. Keep it temporary by mounting your tiles onto foam board, then just secure the board to the wall behind the stove. Inexpensive foam board usually comes in a 20" x 30" sheet, so it’s perfectly sized for behind-the-stove applications.

They’re tailored, polished and usually pretty expensive. Not this DIY Roman shade — it’s a no-sew optical illusion. And best of all there’s no hardware to install thanks to some well-placed tension rods.

Pro tip: Go with fabric that's a little sheer if you want to keep your space feeling light, bright and airy.

If you aren't allowed to paint the walls, changing the basic structure of the room is obviously out of the question. That's where room dividers come in handy. Use this method to create a home office or give the kids their own play space in a single bedroom.

If the peel-and-stick tile options aren't providing the look you want, consider updating your kitchen with a DIY backsplash made from fabric and clear plexiglass. Perfect for renters, this temporary backsplash can be customized to fit your style and removed in minutes when your lease is up.

Sometimes an out-of-date refrigerator can be an eyesore in a rental kitchen. Replacing the fridge is not an option for most, but all hope is not lost. You can jazz up your refrigerator by covering it with removable wallpaper. This project is a lot easier than you think, and it can really add an element of fun to a tired space. This wallpaper is easy to remove, so when you're ready for a new look or a new address, simply peel it away.

And if classic stainless steel is more your vibe, blogger Julie Blanner found an ideal solution in the form of stainless steel contact paper. For around $5, this change has the power to totally transform your kitchen. In fact, the landlord may even ask you to leave it up.

Another option you may already have on hand? Tape. It only took Dina from Honey & Fitz two rolls of gold duct tape to turn a basic white fridge into a glitzy showstopper. If you can't replace the fridge, but have permission to give it an update, this is a simple solution at a low price point.

And speaking of tape, washi tape is a tried-and-true rental solution that doesn't leave a trace when nails and screws are out of the question. Here, a cluster of artwork is imaginatively framed above a neutral sofa with bright washi tape. The decorative Japanese tape not only secures the prints to the wall, but it's also used to create fanciful frames in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colors.

A washi tape wall can be as colorful or as subdued as you like. Emily Ann Radler from Everything Emily created this stunning accent wall with just two rolls of black washi tape. The best part? She completed the project for less than $10.

If you're hoping to add a homey feel to your rented space, simply adding a few plants around the house might do the trick. This fiddle leaf fig tree adds life and texture to the living room. And for an added bonus, plants help purify indoor air. (No more mystery smell from renters past.)

Radiators are not attractive; it's as simple as that. But covering a radiator is not always so simple. Luckily, Marian from Miss Mustard Seed shared her beautiful solution that not only disguises the unit, but even adds extra storage in an often tight space.

A sweet gallery wall disguises the awkward placement of the light switch in this quaint bathroom. You're certainly not going to change the electrical work in your rental, so you may be forced to live with some oddly-placed lights, light switches or power outlets. Carmel from Our Fifth House solved this problem by camouflaging a light switch within a tasteful group of artwork.

Not everyone can afford million-dollar views. If you want to obscure an unattractive view without losing precious sunlight, try this DIY ombre effect on your windows and doors. Simply paint 2-inch squares of colored tissue paper onto the glass using a mixture of 9-parts water to 1-part decoupage medium. When it’s time to remove it from the glass, spray it down with water, let it soak for a minute, then wipe it off.

Another excellent idea for extra space is an over-the-door pantry unit. You can maximize the space on the back of the pantry door with only a few screws. Warning: Some landlords are more than fine with storage additions like this one, but you may be asked to leave it behind when you move.

You don't often see the words custom and affordable in the same sentence — especially regarding window treatments. But it is possible to achieve both IF you're willing to get a little crafty. This charming boho-inspired panel is a DIY dream. Embellished with yarn and DIY tassels, it adds a graphic, global vibe to any space.

Not every lighting upgrade requires swapping a fixture. Portable pendants and plug-in lights can add style without touching existing wiring. This DIY industrial pendant looks expensive, but it's not. Pick up a corded light kit and flange from your local hardware store and score a wire basket at your local flea market. Thread the light cord through the flange, then through the bottom of the basket. Flip over the basket, add an industrial-looking bulb then hang it with a temporary hook.

Bathroom lighting can be pretty uninspired in most rentals and apartments. This DIY valance is a temporary way to hide that not-so-cute light fixture. And the metal sheeting comes in a variety of patterns so you’re sure to find one that reflects your style.

Like your boho style with a side of glamour? Make your own version of those high-priced beaded chandeliers gracing luxe interiors across the country. Pick up a hanging basket at your local garden center, then create your own flush-mount masterpiece. Get complete instructions at the how-to link, below.

Don't underestimate the impact of graphic art — whether it's a grouping of small, inexpensive frames or an oversized canvas. These small abstracts butted frame-to-frame help personalize the space. And don’t be shy about putting together a massive grouping. They’re mounted with temporary adhesive, so your landlord won’t freak.

Pool noodles in the bedroom? Yes, it sounds sketchy but trust us on this one. If you can handle a staple gun, you can make this dreamy deco-inspired DIY headboard. Dive on in!