Renting in NYC (or anywhere, really) often means white walls, standard-issue cabinets, and that infamous no drilling, no painting, no fun lease agreement. But just because you don’t own your space doesn’t mean you can’t love it. So what do the pros say are the best rental decorating ideas?
Easy! Finding smart, completely reversible ways to personalize your rental without making your landlord’s blood pressure spike. Let’s talk about how to decorate a rental—without losing that precious security deposit:
Step 1: (Temporarily) Ditch the Beige Walls
If your rental’s walls are making you yawn, you’ve got options beyond paint:
- Peel-and-stick wallpaper: Goes up easily, comes down without a trace. Perfect for a bathroom update or even a faux backsplash in the kitchen.
- Washi tape or removable decals: Adds personality without commitment. Frame a mirror, create geometric patterns—go wild.
- Oversized artwork: Lean a large canvas against the wall for instant impact. Bonus: It moves with you!
Step 2: Upgrade Lighting (Because Overhead Fluorescents Are the Worst)
Nothing says rental like harsh, unflattering lighting. But you can fix that in seconds:
- Utilize additional, layered lighting—ambient, task, and accent, to offset the room’s standard overhead lights
- Swap out lampshades for ones that diffuse light beautifully.
- Plug-in sconces add a designer touch without any wiring.
- Smart bulbs let you control brightness and color temp—no electrician required.
Step 3: Get Creative with Storage (Because Closets Are a Joke)
If you’re dealing with NYC-sized closets, you’ll need to think practically:
- Command hooks everywhere: Entryway for bags, kitchen for utensils, bedroom for hats—zero damage, total convenience.
- Rolling carts: Perfect for a flexible bar setup, extra pantry storage, or even a nightstand alternative.
- Under-bed storage: Maximize space with slim bins or even stylish woven baskets.
Step 4: Cover the Ugly (Without Breaking Any Rules)
Rental finishes aren’t always… ideal. But there’s a solution for almost everything:
- Vinyl floor stickers: If your floors are a tragedy, peel-and-stick tiles can save the day.
- Contact paper: Use it on kitchen counters, inside cabinets, on bathroom vanities, or even to refresh dated appliances.
- Curtains (everywhere!): Soften bland walls, hide unsightly features, or divide up a studio.
Step 5: Swap Hardware & Fixtures (Then Swap Them Back)
- Cabinet knobs: A small but mighty upgrade in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Showerhead: A quick switch for better water pressure and spa vibes.
- Outlet covers & switch plates: These are always ugly in rentals—an easy swap makes a world of difference.
Step 6: Layer in Soft Textures for Instantly Updated Vibes
A rental can feel cold and impersonal, but the right textiles add warmth fast:
- Rugs: Cover bad floors and create zones in open spaces.
- Throw blankets & pillows: Easy to update seasonally (and landlord-approved).
- Fabric wall hangings: A stylish alternative to framed art that softens a space.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve a Space That Feels Like YOU
Your rental may have rules, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a home that feels stylish, inviting, and totally you. With a few temporary but high-impact upgrades, you’ll have a space that looks great and gets that security deposit back.
Want even more renter-friendly design help? Book a free consultation with our team—we’ve helped hundreds of NYC renters make the most of their space!
