10 temporary decorating ideas for renters

Patterned curtains

Many a rental space comes complete with vertical blinds that, let’s be honest, are less than stylish. By removing them and replacing them with curtains, you can add instant style to your space. But don’t forget to safely store the blinds after you’ve removed them. You’ll likely have to put them back up when you move out. But you can take the curtains with you when you go! Moorish Tile Curtains, Pier 1, starting at $44.95.

Cocktail cart

A cocktail cart is a simple way to create a chic entertaining space when you don’t have a lot of room to spare. It’ll add a touch of glamour to your space (especially one in gold) and of course, this one will roll right out the door with you to your new home. Gluckstein Home Trolley Styled Bar Cart, Hudson’s Bay, $299.

Removable wallpaper

Nothing changes the look of a space faster than wallpaper. This gorgeous wallpaper pattern actually comes in 24x32-inch tiles that are easily removable, making them perfect for rental units. They have a low-tack adhesive backing and are washable, too! Diamante (Turquoise) Tile, Hygge & West, $33.

Chandelier

Those builder-grade light fixtures that you find in many apartments are, let’s face it, a total eye sore. A simple swap for something more you, will help to add personality to your space and give you and your guests something pretty to look at. This gorgeous chandelier comes in an antique metal-finished frame and is a beautiful combo of industrial and modern style. Marney Glass Chandelier, West Elm, $479.

Rug tiles

Area rugs are great but rug tiles are even better because of their versatility. Each square measures approximately 20” x 20” and you can easily assemble them in any room in your home for added warmth and comfort underfoot. And if you move into a larger space down the road, you can buy more tiles to enlarge the size of the rug. Coming Along Tiles, Flor, prices vary.

Tile decals

Nothing dates a kitchen quicker than those circa-1970 ceramic tiles in hideous colours. Worse yet, tiles that have potatoes, lobsters or baskets of fruit. Yikes! There’s no need to rip out your existing tile to give your backsplash a makeover. Simply apply these waterproof tile decals to add a fresh and modern look to your kitchen. Optic Stripe Tile Decals, Stick Pretty, starting at $18.

Window film

An alternative to blinds, adhesive window film will give you total privacy while still allowing sunlight to flow into your space. This gorgeous design looks like etched glass and is a pretty and practical way to add style to your space. Best of all, it’s easy to remove when the time comes. Emma Jeffs Pearl Adhesive Film, Design Public, $86.

New knobs

These etched blossom knobs are just gorgeous and are a perfect way toupdate a kitchenor bathroom cabinets. Simply swap out the existing ones for something prettier like these but don’t forget to hang on to the old ones so you can replace them before you move out. Etched Blossom Knobs, Anthropologie, $12.

Floor lamps

Illuminate a small space with floor lamps that are striking and make a style statement all on their own. This one has a rustic brass finish and will look right at home in your rental and in your new space when you move on. Interlaced Gold Chain Floor Lamp, Pottery Barn, $360.

Fresh flowers

Of all these ideas, this is the most inexpensive and can pack the biggest punch. Fresh flowers from a local farmer’s market, grocery store or even your own garden will add colour and life to any room in your home. So transform your space with fragrant fresh blooms each week – they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to your face every time you pass by them.