Back in college, I had this little one-bedroom apartment that I wanted to make feel like my own cozy haven, but renting always has those “do not touch” rules.
No nailing things into the wall, and definitely no wild DIYs that would make my landlord question my sanity.
But I still wanted a place that felt like me, somewhere I could unwind, study, or just chill with friends without it looking like a plain dorm room.
So, I started looking into rent-friendly upgrades—things I could add or tweak to bring some personality into the space without crossing any rental lines or losing my deposit.
Trust me, these easy, creative upgrades completely transformed my little apartment, and they’ll do the same for yours.
Let’s dive into the hacks that’ll give you a personalized, stylish setup without any commitment!
Apartment Friendly Upgrades
Looking to make your apartment feel more like home without losing your deposit?
Apartment-friendly upgrades are the way to go!
With a few simple tweaks, you can add style, comfort, and personality to your space—all without making permanent changes.
Get ready to transform your place!
1. Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Want a quick way to add personality to your space?
Peel and stick wallpaper is a total game-changer! It’s easy to apply, won’t damage walls, and comes in so many designs—perfect for adding style without the hassle.
This is my all-time favorite peel and sick wallpaper.
When you’re ready for a change, just peel it off!
2. Add a Coffee Bar
When I was living in my apartment, the one thing I wanted too much was a coffee bar. I had a little area to put on and it was gorgeous!
Having a coffee bar in your apartment is a fun way to bring a cozy vibe and keep all your coffee essentials in one spot.
Start by finding a small table, cart, or a corner on your kitchen counter.
This is the one that is similar to the one I got.
Add a coffee maker, mugs, and your go-to supplies like sugar and creamer.
For extra style, toss in a cute basket for pods or grounds, stack some syrups or spices, and hang a small shelf above for decor.
It’s functional, easy to personalize, and the perfect setup to kickstart your mornings!
3. Install Under Cabinet Lighting
Under-cabinet lighting is a total apartment-friendly hack for creating a cozy, well-lit kitchen without any permanent changes.
Grab some battery-operated or stick-on LED lights and place them under your cabinets to brighten up your countertops instantly.
They’re easy to install, make cooking so much easier, and add a sleek, modern touch. Plus, they’re removable, so you can take them with you when you move!
4. Add Indoor Plants
Adding indoor plants is an easy way to bring life and freshness into your apartment.
Choose low-maintenance plants like pothos, snake plants, or plants that thrive indoors and need minimal care.
Arrange them on shelves, window sills, or in hanging planters to add a natural, stylish vibe to any room.
Plus, they help purify the air, making your space feel brighter and cozier with minimal effort!
5. DIY Open Shelving
DIY open shelving is a great way to add storage and style to your apartment without taking up too much space. Start with some sturdy, stylish brackets and wood planks that match your decor.
Mount them on your kitchen wall for easy access to dishes and glasses, or set them up in your living room to display books, plants, and decor.
Open shelves keep everything organized and make your apartment look super chic—perfect for small spaces where every inch counts!
6. Peel and Stick Backsplash
A peel and stick backsplash is an apartment-friendly upgrade that adds instant style to your kitchen without the commitment.
These adhesive tiles come in tons of designs, from subway tiles to marble finishes, and are super easy to apply.
Just measure, cut to size, and stick them onto your kitchen walls for a fresh, modern look.
They’re also easy to remove, so when it’s time to move, you won’t have to worry about any wall damage. Quick, stylish, and rental-safe!
7. Paint an Accent Wall
Painting an accent wall is a bold way to add personality to your apartment while keeping things rental-friendly.
Pick a wall that catches the eye, like the one behind your bed or sofa, and go for a color that complements your decor.
For a subtle vibe, try soft earthy tones; if you’re feeling daring, go for rich, moody colors like deep green or navy.
Just check your lease first, and be prepared to paint it back when you move out. It’s an easy way to make your space uniquely yours!
8. Add an Entryway Table
Adding an entryway table for storage is a great way to make your apartment feel welcoming and organized from the moment you step inside.
Choose a small table that fits your space, and add essentials like a bowl for keys, a small tray for mail, or a cute basket for shoes.
This one is chic and oh so beautiful.
For extra style, top it off with a small plant or a framed picture, and maybe even a mirror above to open up the area.
It’s both functional and stylish, giving your apartment an instantly inviting vibe!
9. Hang a Blanket on the Wall
For a cozy, stylish vibe, try adding a blanket to your wall decor.
Choose a pattern or color that fits your style—like boho prints, cozy plaids, or neutral knits.
Use command hooks or a curtain rod to hang it securely, creating texture and warmth without permanent changes.
10. Use Tension Rods to Hang Curtains
Looking for a way to hang curtains without drilling?
Tension rods are your best friend! They’re easy to install, adjustable to fit any window, and don’t leave marks.
Just pick a set of lightweight curtains, extend the rod to fit snugly, and voilà—instant cozy privacy for your space!
Tiny Bedroom Upgrade Ideas
When space is tight, a few clever upgrades can make your tiny bedroom feel cozy and functional.
From smart storage solutions to stylish decor hacks, these ideas will help you maximize every inch without sacrificing style.
Get ready to make your small space feel like home!
11. Decorate With Rugs
Adding a rug is an easy way to bring warmth, color, and texture to any room—even in a tiny space! A well-chosen rug can define areas, make the room feel cozier, and add style without taking up floor space.
Go for a bold pattern to create a statement or a soft, neutral tone for a more relaxed vibe.
Layering rugs also works wonders in small bedrooms, adding dimension and making the space feel thoughtfully designed.
12. Use Contact Paper to Make a Faux Wood Beam
For a budget-friendly way to add rustic charm, contact paper can help you create a faux wood beam with minimal effort.
Choose a wood-grain contact paper and apply it to a lightweight foam beam or directly onto an existing surface.
The realistic texture adds warmth and character, perfect for transforming your ceiling or wall with a natural wood look—no heavy lifting or permanent commitment needed!
13. Change the Bedroom Lampshades
Switching out bedroom lampshades is a quick upgrade that adds style and personality.
Go for textures like linen or rattan for a cozy feel, or try bold colors and patterns to make a statement.
Swapping shades is an easy, affordable way to refresh your space without buying new lamps!
14. Replace Switch Plates and Other Hardware
This is the easiest way to upgrade your apartment!
Updating switch plates and hardware is a small change that can make a big difference in your bedroom’s style.
Opt for sleek metals, matte black, or even textured designs to add character instantly.
This simple swap gives your space a polished, modern look without breaking the bank!
15. Use a IKEA Kallax Shelf Unit
Perfect for maximizing storage, an IKEA Kallax shelf unit can be used as a room divider, bedside table, or even extra closet space. Add baskets or bins to keep everything organized, and style it with decor pieces or plants for a personal touch. It’s practical and stylish!
16. Add Floating Shelves
For a sleek and space-saving storage solution, floating shelves are a great choice.
They free up floor space, keep things organized, and add a modern touch to your decor.
Arrange them to display favorite books, plants, or art, making your walls both functional and stylish!
17. Use a Stylish Headboard
A stylish headboard can completely transform your bedroom’s look and feel.
Opt for a plush, upholstered headboard for a cozy, luxurious vibe, or go for wood or rattan for a more rustic, boho touch.
Choose a color or pattern that complements your decor—something bold can make it a focal point, while a neutral shade adds subtle elegance.
With a headboard, your bed becomes the room’s centerpiece, adding both comfort and style without much effort!
18. Layer Your Bedding
For an ultra-cozy bedroom, try layering blankets, throws, and pillows in different textures—think chunky knits, soft faux fur, and plush velvet.
Mix up colors that complement your room’s vibe, like warm neutrals for a calm feel or jewel tones for a bold pop.
Stack throw pillows in various sizes for that extra plush, inviting look, and drape a soft throw across the bed or chair.
These layers not only make your bed look stylish but also create the perfect space for winding down after a long day.
Insanely Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Apartment
There ya go! I hope you found these easy and simple ways to upgrade your apartment that’s renter friendly!
For more help decorating your space, follow me on Pinterest!
