Best Budget-Friendly Upgrades for Your Rental

When you're a renter, it's still a top priority to make your apartment, unit, etc. feel like home. Whether you're going to call your rental home for a few months or years to come, you don't want to be limited within your space on being able to bring it to life through decor and furnishings. You want your space to reflect who you are as a person and become a true oasis you can retreat to each and every day.

I've got great news for you if this resignates... there are plenty of ways to infuse your personality and style into your rental without breaking the bank AND abiding by your lease agreement. Curious to know more? We've pulled together a list of budget-friendly, chic updates that can transform your rental into a haven that reflects your taste and individuality. Out with the dull white walls or concrete floors, and in with the new!!

REMOVABLE WALLPAPER

An instant pop of personality with zero long-term commitment! When it comes to adding character to your walls as a renter, removable wallpaper will be your best friend. So many options allow you to experiment with patterns, textures, and colors without the permanence of traditional wallpaper or paint. From bold, moody tones to earthy neutrals and everything in between, adding color and/or patterns into your home can breathe new life into your rental space. Don't be shy! Play with accent walls and colorful textiles to create an inviting atmosphere that reflects your individual taste and personality. As an interior decorator, I recommend selecting designs that complement your existing decor while adding visual interest and depth to your space. 

trending wallpaper feature

In 2024, stripes are making a bold statement in interior design, adding a sense of sophistication and playfulness to any space. Incorporating stripes into your decor can instantly elevate the aesthetic appeal of your rental. They can also help elongate or enhance the appearance when it comes to height of a room. Play around with accentuating architectural features with striped wallpaper or introducing striped textiles for a pop of interest.

STATEMENT RUGS: GROUND YOUR SPACE WITH STYLE

Rugs are the unsung heroes of home decor. They tie the room together and give your toes something cozy to sink into. Your furry friends will love them, whether it's belly scratches, a layer of warmth for the winter, or anything in between. They're a fantastic way to inject some personality into your space. Bold, oversized rugs are taking center stage in 2024, and they're the perfect way to anchor your space and make a statement in your rental. Not only that...but the benefit of investing in a rug is that you can take them whenever you leave! Look for rugs with enticing patterns, rich textures, and/or unconventional shapes to add visual interest and depth to your home's interior. As an interior decorator, I encourage clients to embrace the trend of statement rugs to inject personality and drama into their rental spaces.

UPCYCLED FURNITURE: SUSTAINABLE CHIC FOR MODERN LIVING

Upcycled furniture can make a room when done right in an era where sustainability has become a focal point in design. Embrace the trend of repurposed and reclaimed furniture by leveraging a thrift store or two, flea markets, and online marketplaces for unique pieces with character and history. We love a good Facebook Marketplace deal over on the McFadyen & Co. Team and have had some great luck finding vintage masterpieces that have become staples in our homes. With a fresh coat of paint, reupholstering, or sanding + staining - outdated pieces can be transformed into stunning focal points that reflect your personal style and taste. The best part, if you're savy you might even find a steal of a deal!

GALLERY WALLS: CURATE YOUR STORY, FRAME BY FRAME

Gallery walls offer a creative outlet for showcasing your personality and interests while adding visual intrigue to your space. As an interior decorator, I recommend curating a collection of artwork, photographs, and memorabilia that speaks to your individuality. Experiment with different frame styles, sizes, and arrangements to create a dynamic display that tells your unique story. Whether you prefer a cohesive theme or an eclectic mix of pieces, let your gallery wall be a reflection of your aesthetic vision.

INDOOR PLANTS: BREATHE LIFE INTO YOUR INTERIORS

As an interior decorator, I often incorporate indoor plants into my designs to bring a sense of vitality and freshness to indoor spaces. Not only do plants purify the air and improve overall well-being, but they also serve as natural decor elements that add color, texture, and visual interest to any room. Whether you prefer lush foliage or sculptural succulents, there's a plant species suited to your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Embrace the biophilic design trend and let nature flourish within your rental space.

STATEMENT LIGHTING

Now for one of our personal favorites! Don't underestimate the power of lighting to elevate your home decor. Lighting and paint are two of our go-to updates that can revive a space. Replace outdated light fixtures (with the approval of your landlord, of course) with modern alternatives that reflect your style and personality. Vintage lighting is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, adding character and charm to modern interiors, and can infuse your rental space with a sense of warmth.

Like upcycled furniture, you can hunt for unique finds at flea markets, antique shops, and online marketplaces. There are endless options to suit every taste and budget. Another trick we love to leverage is adding plug-in sconces for an easy way to add ambient + task lighting without hardwiring. Additionally, think about incorporating floor lamps and table lamps to create layers of light and enhance the ambiance of your space.

THE POWER OF ROTATING HOME DECOR: REFRESH & RENEW

One of the most exciting aspects of interior design is its dynamic nature. Embrace the versatility of your rental space by incorporating elements that can be easily swapped out and refreshed over time. From seasonal accessories to statement pieces that reflect your evolving tastes, rotating home decor keeps your space fresh and inspired without the need for major renovations.

As an interior decorator, I encourage clients to experiment with different color palettes, textures, and styles, using rotating home decor as a tool for self-expression and creativity. By embracing the power of rotation, you can continuously reinvent your rental space and keep it feeling vibrant and new, year after year. That said, don't be afraid to mix and match textures to add depth and visual interest to your rental decor. Combining different textures through decor creates a tactile experience that delights the senses, from cozy knits and plush velvet to sleek metals and rustic wood. Embrace the juxtaposition a rental usually brings of rough and smooth, soft and hard, old and new fixtures, to create a harmonious and inviting environment that feels both luxurious and lived-in.

As we draw the curtains on our exploration of budget-friendly and chic updates for renters, it's clear that transforming your rental into a stylish sanctuary is achievable and incredibly rewarding. Whether you're incorporating removable wallpaper to channel maximalist vibes, scouring thrift stores for upcycled treasures, or curating a gallery wall that tells your unique story, each design choice contributes to the facelift of your rental. By embracing the latest trends, incorporating unique finds, and infusing your space with color, texture, personality, and charm, you can create a stylish and personalized haven that feels like home.

Keana

Resident Stylist at McFadyen & Co.

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