Five Renter Friendly Upgrades for the Un-Leased Look

Moving into your first place is exciting and it's likely a rental, often a small apartment or cozy little cottage. As we get older, rentals appeal when downsizing is desired and the responsibility of care and upkeep give way to a travel or golf itinerary. 

No matter the reason you rent, or the size of your dwelling, there is no reason why it can't feel like home. Homemakers has some great ideas for how to make it "yours". Landlord approved on some of these, of course. 

1) Paint

Paint is often an obvious option for changing up a space, and color can make all the difference it the world. As inexpensive as this option can be, painting should always be approved by the landlord. 

It is usually expected that you the renter will either paint it back to the landlords standard, or pay to have it professionally done, so read your lease carefully and always discuss with the owner of the home. 

2) Peel and Stick Wall Paper

Wall paper is an element that comes and goes with the tide it seems. But right now, that tide has rolled in! Prints and textured patterns can really liven up a space. 

Peel and stick options are not only less expensive, but a great way to style with the more rental friendly peel and stick options. Some may stick more than others leaving a wall with some damage while others may peel away if not of quality, in a space with high humidity, or by cutting corners during the hanging process.

It should go without saying that this option should always be approved by the landlord. It could save dollars and headaches when you go to move out.

3) Shelving & Bookcases

Bookcases and light-weight wall shelving can be a great way to keep your small place tidy while displaying items that speak to you, including keepsakes and photos of family and friends. There are some great things about shelving:

• can be tall or short to suit the size of the room and the ceiling height. 
• baskets and cubes can help disguise clutter on a shelf
• open bookcases can let light through while a backed units will keep items from slipping out the back side and can serve double duty as a sofa console

4) Throw Pillows & Blankets

Thow pillows add color with a toss. adding them to furntiture is a great way to enliven the space and can be switched out whenever you feel a refresh is needed. 

A random throw blanket hanging over the back of an accent chair or small pied-a-terre sofa will easily warm up a space with with cozy charm, and is another way to refresh with the season or mood.

5) Clocks, Wall Art & Decor

Large wall art and clocks that take up a lot of wall space are great ways to make a place look more curated to you and your taste. Decor and accessories can be inexpensive and typically will not require landlord approval. Mirrors placed along side art on the wall, or mingled in with sculptures and catch-all bowls on console table or bookshelves can add dimension and light to a room.

Consider area rugs. Even in small stuidio apartments they add a pop of texture and color, and work great to divide spaces to distinguish the function of an area. 

Curtains, or draperies, can also add texture or color to a space. This can be a more expensive choice, and will require rods and hardware that can leave holes that the owner may require you to repair or hold out the expense from your deposit. Make sure you understand the total cost from the day you purchase them to the day you move out. They may also not suit your next place or future taste. 

Let's Bring It Home!

Whether its your first tiny apartment, or a townhome in retirement, you can make small and inexpensive changes to make a place truly yours. Don't let the greige sadden your days. 

Stop into Homemakers Furniture Store and browse art, throw pillows and other small elements to show off your personality. Homemakers can help with decor and accessories to make your new digs unique. Pop into the Design Studio and meet with a design consultant to get your vision into your home.

Visit us online. We'll ship to your new door.