Princeton Happenings

Living in an apartment home doesn’t mean you can’t transform your apartment into a stylish, comfortable haven. The key is finding renter-friendly creative, temporary solutions that won’t jeopardize your security deposit. From eye-catching decor to clever storage tips, here are nine brilliant DIY ideas to breathe new life into your rental without breaking the bank.

1. Embrace Removable Wallpaper

Removable wallpaper is a renter’s dream come true. It adds personality to your walls without the commitment—or damage—of traditional wallpaper. Whether you opt for a bold geometric pattern or a subtle pastel print, the possibilities are endless.

 Why It Works: You can peel it off without leaving any residue, making it a low-risk way to instantly upgrade a room. You can find a list of the best removable wallpapers here!

2. Get Creative with Curtains

Curtains can do more than just block out light. They can also serve as stylish room dividers or decorative accents. Look for tension rods that fit inside door frames or between walls to hang curtains without drilling holes.

 Bonus Tip: Choosing curtains in a light, airy fabric can make your space look larger and brighter.

3. Add Personality with Peel-and-Stick Tiles

If your rental kitchen or bathroom needs some personalization, peel-and-stick tiles might be the perfect solution. They come in various designs—from chic subway tiles to intricate mosaics—and can be applied over existing floors or backsplashes.

 Pro Tip: Make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying the tiles, and measure carefully for a seamless finish.

4. Brighten Up with Unique Light Fixtures

Swap out generic lighting for stylish unique fixtures. Look for plug-in table lamps, floor lamps, or even smart bulbs that allow you to change lighting colors via an app. These upgrades can dramatically change the atmosphere of your space.

 Easy Upgrade: Use command hooks to hang pendant lights that plug in without drilling into the wall or ceiling.

5. Utilize Multi-Functional Furniture

In a rental, you might be working with limited space, so make the most of it by choosing furniture that can serve multiple purposes. Examples include:

 An ottoman with hidden storage
 A coffee table that converts into a desk
 A fold-down dining table

 Why It Works: Multi-purpose furniture keeps your living area clutter-free and opens up the layout for a more spacious feel.

6. DIY Entertainment Stations

Turn a bland corner into a cozy reading nook or create a mini home theater in your living room. You can use a small, movable bookcase to organize your reading materials, or mount a projector screen with command strips for movie nights.

 Money-Saving Hack: Avoid drilling holes by using adhesive hooks or strips to hang lightweight decor and screens.

7. Dress Up Your Walls with Renter-Friendly Art

Bare walls can make a rental feel impersonal, but you don’t have to nail into the drywall. Try the following:

 Use picture-hanging strips to hang canvas prints, framed art, or posters
 Lean large artwork against the wall on the floor or a console table
 Create a gallery wall using removable adhesive hooks

 Pro Tip: Mix and match different frame styles for a trendy, eclectic look.

8. Upgrade Your Bathroom with Stylish, Temporary Finishes

Bathrooms can sometimes feel too plain, but a few small, reversible upgrades can make a big impact.

 Simple Upgrades:
 Use peel-and-stick floor tiles for a modern refresh finish
 Install a tension rod with stylish hanging shelves for extra storage

 Why It Works: These quick fixes improve both function and aesthetics without violating your lease.

9. Create a Cozy Balcony or Outdoor Space

Even the quaintest balcony or patio can become a charming retreat with the right touches.

 Easy Enhancements:
 Use interlocking deck tiles to cover dull concrete floors
 Add outdoor-friendly cushions and foldable furniture for comfort

 Pro Tip: A few potted plants or a mini herb garden can make your outdoor space feel more inviting.

You don’t have to own your home to make it feel like yours. With these nine DIY renter-friendly ideas, you can add style, function, and personality to your living space without worrying about losing your deposit. From peel-and-stick tiles to multi-functional furniture, each tip offers a cost-effective solution for brightening and customizing your rental. Embrace your creativity, and watch as your apartment transforms into a space that reflects your unique taste and lifestyle—on a budget and without the hassle of permanent changes.

The first step to designing your ideal living experience is finding your perfect apartment home! Explore all of our communities and their unique amenities here and schedule your tour today.