10 Foolproof Ways to Pump Up the Design in Your Rental Without Paint
Paint; it’s typically the best bang for your buck when it comes to transforming a space. However, you’re a in a rental, and the landlord is like, “nah brah, not in this house.” (Laaaame.)
Having worked with rental clients, I’ve compiled a list of ten foolproof ways to pump up the design in your rental without paint.
Here’s ten ways to turn it UP and take with you on the next move, too:
#1 | PEEL N’ STICK WALLPAPER
Make a statement with a striking accent wall or go full-on drama wallpapering an entire room. Wall color not so great? As they say, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Find a wallpaper with colors that compliment what’s already there. Removable wallpaper is a renter’s gift from the design deities.
#2 | SASSY, BRASSY SWITCHPLATES
Switches aren’t anything to write home about. Doll it up with a little bitta shiny jewelry and you’ll find yourself (and your rental) singing a whole new tune.
#3 | PILE THE THROW PILLOWS
Brand new sofa not in the budget? Pump up the look with a bunch of crazy-cool pillows. Go neutral and focus on textures or go bold with a vivacious textile. Either way, your sleepy sofa will feel completely transformed.
#4 | PLANTS, PLANTS AND MORE PLANTS
Whether you’ve got a green thumb or not, plants (live or real good fakies) are a magical way to freshen up a room. A large cascading plant can liven up any corner; a tabletop plant feels fabulous on a home office desk; or trail vines along the wall for a decorative look. Plants are the ish.
#5 | BOOZY BAR CART
Nothing says “my home is muy-muy sophisticated” like a real pretty, boozy bar cart. Go on the thrill of the thrift seeking a vintage bar cart with unique characteristics or buy a sleek one brand new. Either way, she shimmers, she shines, she ages like a fine wine (and yours until the end of time).
#6 | ARTWORK (AND YES, THE BIGGER THE BETTER)
As far as I’m concerned the bigger the artwork, the better the impact. I often hear of struggles in finding said artwork. The truth is, artwork is entirely subjective and finding it takes time (and sometimes a good amount of money).
When you find something that speaks to your sensibilities, it’s visceral. So, if you’re often unsure and never take the chance, how will you ever discover what you really love? If it’s talking to you, girl, you go on and give it a shot.
#7 | SPUNKY HEADBOARD
Bedroom a bit blasé? Refresh the room by investing in a unique bed frame or headboard. For instance, a vibrant color, a rich fabric or brassy canopy frame will elevate the entire vibe, even if it’s the only change. We spend so much of our life sleeping, why not juszzzch it up?
#8 | THRIFTED FURNISHINGS
A great way to save money on furniture is to seek it secondhand. Above all, not only will you save a few shekels, you’ll be introducing unique, one-of-a-kind furnishings in your home that’ll surely stand out to all who enter.
#9 | PLUG-IN LIGHT FIXTURES
Add layers of beautiful light by installing a variety of plug-in light fixtures. Whether it’s a wall-mounted sconce; an art lamp to highlight a work of art; or a swagged chandelier (especially in a dining room without a central light box), plug-in light fixtures create a distinctive nighttime ambience. You can never have too many light sources in my book.
#10 | AREA RUGS, POSSIBLY LAYERED
Since the walls won’t permit paint, a ravishing area rug ups the design ante. Go grand for one or top off an understated natural fiber area rug with a smaller and shapely, fluffy or patterned rug. More is more is more.
