Turn Your Apartment Into a Home: Expert-Backed Tips Renters Swear By
Creating a cozy, stylish home in a rental apartment can feel like a serious challenge. With builder-grade finishes, strict lease agreements, and cookie-cutter layouts, turning a temporary space into something that truly reflects your personality requires some creativity. You might not be allowed to paint the walls, replace the flooring, or remove that outdated light fixture—but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a bland space. In fact, with a few smart renter-friendly apartment upgrades, you can completely transform your rental into a warm, welcoming home.
We sat down with Esther, a content creator and apartment-living expert who’s made a name for herself by sharing her cozy, neutral-toned apartment with thousands of followers. Her space is proof that even the most basic rental can become a sanctuary of style and comfort. Through intentional design choices, layered decor, and clever tricks, she’s curated a space that feels anything but temporary.
“Living in a rental doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style,” Esther explains. “It just means you need to be a little more resourceful—and think in layers.” That philosophy is visible in every corner of her home, from the plush textures in her living room to the calming tones in her bedroom.
Rugs are one of her favorite tools for instant transformation. “They’re such a game-changer,” she says. “Rugs not only add warmth, texture, and softness—they also cover up less-than-ideal flooring and help define different zones in small spaces.” From apartment living room ideas like oversized area rugs to narrow runners in hallways and kitchens, rugs are one of the best ways to elevate a rental without permanent changes. Plus, they’re fully removable—making them ideal for renters who want style without commitment.
For the walls, peel-and-stick wallpaper and decals are a must. These renter-approved solutions add color and pattern without leaving damage behind. Esther also loves swapping out cabinet hardware and adding ambient light with plug-in sconces or table lamps. “Lighting is everything,” she notes. “It sets the mood and instantly makes a space feel cozier.”
Layered textiles are another secret weapon in Esther’s arsenal. “Throw blankets, pillows, curtains—these are the elements that make a room feel lived-in and loved,” she says. These soft elements not only add comfort but also help personalize your space in a big way.
Small apartment design tips like multifunctional furniture, under-bed storage, and vertical shelving also come into play when optimizing both style and function. Esther encourages renters to embrace the limits of their space while finding ways to work within them. “It’s all about thoughtful choices,” she adds. “You don’t need a big budget to make your home beautiful—you just need intention.”
So whether you're decorating your first place or refreshing your current rental, take a cue from Esther. With a few key decor moves and rental apartment decorating tips, you can create a space that reflects your style—and feels like home, no matter the lease terms.
Esther’s approach proves that a little creativity goes a long way. It’s not about completely overhauling your rental—it’s about finding renter-friendly apartment upgrades that make a big visual and emotional impact. Simple changes like introducing cozy textures, enhancing lighting, and using strategic decor can redefine your home without compromising your lease.
Another often-overlooked trick? Personalizing with scent and sound. Esther suggests using essential oil diffusers, candles, or even plug-in air fresheners to create a signature home scent. Add a Bluetooth speaker tucked into a bookshelf to subtly fill your space with your favorite playlist or calming background music. “It’s all part of the sensory experience,” she says. “You want your home to feel like a hug at the end of a long day.”
Don’t underestimate the power of emotional connection either. Incorporate meaningful objects—family photos, a favorite book stack, or an heirloom piece—into your decor. Even in a temporary setting, these small additions make a big difference.
At the heart of it all is the mindset shift: you don’t have to own your space to make it feel like home. With thoughtful design choices, strategic styling, and inspiration from experts like Esther, even the most standard apartment can become a personal retreat—layered, loved, and entirely yours.
So go ahead and experiment, express yourself, and enjoy the journey of making your rental a true reflection of who you are.
Bright Ideas: How to Make a Small Rental Feel Big with Light, Reflection, and Smart Decor
One of the most common challenges renters face is making a small apartment feel spacious, open, and stylish. Between limited square footage, awkward layouts, and rental restrictions, it’s easy for rooms to feel cramped or closed off. But the key to transforming a tight rental into a roomy retreat isn’t about knocking down walls—it’s about smart, subtle changes that expand the visual space and enhance the flow.
“Cohesiveness is key,” Esther explains. “When your lighting works together and your space feels visually connected, even the smallest room can feel bright and airy.” Her advice is clear: lean into neutral home decor, layer your lighting, and make strategic use of reflective surfaces to open up your space—no renovation required.
Layered Lighting: The Game-Changer for Small Rentals
Esther’s first secret to success? Layer your lighting. Instead of relying on a single overhead bulb (which often casts a cold, harsh tone), she recommends creating a layered lighting plan. That includes a mix of table lamps, floor lamps, and plug-in sconces placed at varying heights around the room.
“You want your space to feel cozy at night but energizing in the morning,” Esther says. “Having multiple light sources gives you that flexibility.” And best of all, these are peel-and-stick apartment updates—meaning no hardwiring, no drilling, and no damage to your rental.
Use lamps to highlight architectural features, reading nooks, or artwork, and consider dimmable options for ultimate control over your ambiance. This approach doesn’t just create a beautiful glow—it helps visually separate your space into zones, which can be especially helpful in studio apartments.
Reflect and Expand: The Power of Mirrors
In tight spaces, mirrors are a must-have. “Mirrors reflect light and bounce it around the room, which tricks the eye into thinking the space is bigger,” Esther notes. Place a large mirror across from a window to double your natural light, or add a decorative mirror above a console table for a stylish focal point that enhances depth.
Whether it’s a bold geometric mirror or a classic round shape, mirrors are both a functional decor choice for small spaces and a statement piece that adds personality. They’re also perfect for renters because they require minimal mounting and deliver maximum impact.
Storage with Style: Vertical and Versatile
Small apartments often lack storage, but Esther has a solution: go vertical. Use leaning bookcases, cube organizers, or floating shelves to take advantage of wall height. These apartment storage solutions provide extra room for books, plants, baskets, and decorative objects—without eating into your floor space or breaking your lease.
“Think about how you want to use your space,” Esther says. “Can a bookcase double as a nightstand? Can a bench have hidden storage?” The goal is to make your rental feel like home by choosing pieces that work hard and look great.
Bonus Tip: Temporary Yet Transformative Touches
In addition to mirrors, lighting, and vertical storage, Esther recommends adding budget-friendly apartment decor like removable wallpaper, DIY headboards, or large apartment rugs to define spaces and soften hard flooring. Rugs, especially in neutral tones, help center furniture groupings and instantly elevate your home’s overall aesthetic.
These temporary upgrades for rentals allow you to fully personalize your space while staying lease-compliant. Throw in some textiles like layered curtains, plush throws, and cozy pillows, and your once-basic rental will start to feel beautifully intentional.
Add Personality with Rugs, Textiles, and Thoughtful Touches
One of the most effective and budget-friendly ways to transform a rental apartment from basic to beautiful is by layering in textiles and decor that reflect your personality. While renters often face limitations—like restrictions on painting, replacing hardware, or installing permanent fixtures—there are countless creative, renter-friendly ways to personalize your kitchen and bathroom, living room, and more. The secret lies in the details: think soft textiles, versatile accents, and a mix of textures that bring warmth and character into every room.
How to make your apartment feel like home without renovations? Start with textiles. They’re an instant game-changer. Rugs, throw pillows, blankets, curtains, and even fabric wall hangings can create a cozy, intentional look—without the need for any hammer or drill. Textiles bring visual depth and tactile softness to builder-grade spaces and help balance out harsh finishes like linoleum or tile.
Rugs are a great foundation. Not only do they define spaces and protect floors, but they also add comfort and style in one easy move. Whether you’re covering up cold tile in the kitchen or trying to create separation in a studio apartment, rugs help you zone out each area while also making it feel finished. In small kitchens and bathrooms, washable runners are a smart choice for softening hard surfaces and adding just the right pop of texture or color.
For living rooms and bedrooms, larger rugs with cozy piles—like a shag or woven blend—anchor your furniture and elevate your entire layout. Layering rugs is also a great option for renters, especially when you want to add extra cushioning over wall-to-wall carpeting or personalize your space further.
To build on that comfort and warmth, bring in throws, pillows, and curtains. Esther, a design-savvy renter known for her sunlit, neutral-toned space, recommends mixing different materials like linen, cotton, boucle, and knits. “Layering textures adds depth, even if you’re sticking to a simple color palette,” she says. “It’s like styling an outfit—you combine different elements to create something that feels unique and put-together.”
Beyond soft furnishings, it’s the small touches that often make the biggest impact. Stack a few of your favorite books on the coffee table, display fresh flowers in a ceramic vase, or add a tray with candles and keepsakes on your ottoman. These details not only personalize your apartment—they bring soul to the space.
For walls, consider the best peel-and-stick products for apartment walls like removable wallpaper, decals, and temporary art hangers. These offer a renter-friendly way to create a visual focal point without risking your security deposit. Plus, they’re easy to switch out whenever you're ready for a refresh.
Most importantly, remember that affordable ways to style your rental apartment don’t have to be boring or impersonal. Swapping pillow covers seasonally, rotating decor between rooms, or styling your shelves with items that mean something to you can go a long way in creating a space that feels like home.
In the end, the key to creating a stylish and inviting apartment lies in the layers. With the right mix of renter-friendly updates, cozy textiles, and personal accents, you can craft a home that reflects your personality—no renovations required.
Master the Art of Smart Storage in Your Rental Apartment
Storage may not be the flashiest element of interior design, but it’s undoubtedly the unsung hero of any well-functioning home. In a rental apartment—where closets are tiny, attics don’t exist, and basements are only a dream—smart storage becomes more than a convenience. It’s essential. The trick lies in balancing functionality and aesthetics, and with a few clever strategies, you can achieve a cozy and clutter-free living space without permanent changes.
The key to great storage isn’t necessarily having more space—it’s about using the space you do have in smarter ways. This is especially true for renters, who often face restrictions on drilling into walls or making structural changes. Fortunately, there are non-damaging decor ideas for apartment renters that work double-duty, keeping your home both tidy and stylish.
Think Vertically, Not Just Horizontally
If your floors are already working overtime, turn your attention upward. Vertical storage is a renter’s best friend. Use over-the-door organizers for shoes, cleaning supplies, or pantry goods. Install peel-and-stick hooks for coats, hats, or keys. Tall bookshelves, leaning ladders, and hanging wall baskets are perfect examples of apartment hacks for cozy and clutter-free living—they add personality while doubling as smart storage.
Esther, an apartment-living content creator known for her calming, neutral-toned style, swears by this principle. “One of my favorite rental-friendly tricks is using creative storage solutions that are both beautiful and functional,” she says. In her own space, labeled baskets and modular shelving keep things organized without disrupting the aesthetic. “When everything has a place, you can breathe better in your home.”
Hidden Storage = Visible Serenity
Dual-purpose furniture is another powerful tool in your storage arsenal. Ottomans with hidden compartments, beds with built-in drawers, and storage benches are fantastic solutions that combine form and function. They reduce visual clutter while keeping daily-use items like throws, remotes, and shoes tucked away.
Even under-bed storage can be stylish. Low-profile bins or rolling drawers offer hidden space for off-season clothing, extra linens, or holiday decorations. And since they’re out of sight, they help maintain that minimalist, neutral home interior look that so many renters love.
Organize with Intention
Good storage isn’t just about hiding stuff—it’s about being intentional with what you keep. Esther recommends decluttering regularly and only holding onto what you use or love. “Anything that doesn’t serve a purpose—or spark joy—can go,” she says. It’s a simple shift that frees up space and clears your mind.
Use clear bins to group pantry items, drawer dividers to keep utensils neat, and trays to gather odds and ends on open surfaces. These small tweaks help your home feel cohesive, calm, and easy to maintain.
Add Soft Layers for Style and Warmth
Once your space is organized, layering in cozy textures completes the look. Think plush throws, soft pillows, and, of course, rugs. “Best layering rugs for neutral home interiors” are not just practical—they visually ground your furniture and elevate your design. Whether it's a jute rug under a soft area rug or a kitchen runner that adds warmth underfoot, layering rugs adds comfort and subtle depth that works beautifully in any apartment.
Refresh Utility Spaces with Small, Meaningful Swaps
When it comes to rental living, utility spaces like kitchens and bathrooms often get pushed to the bottom of the design priority list. These rooms are functional by nature—built for utility, not personality—which means they can easily feel sterile, outdated, or disconnected from the rest of your home’s aesthetic. But if you ask design-savvy renters, these spaces offer untapped potential. A few small changes can go a long way in making even the most practical areas feel warm, stylish, and lived-in.
How to decorate an apartment on a budget starts with small, renter-friendly updates—and utility rooms are the perfect places to begin. These areas are compact, meaning even the tiniest updates have a noticeable impact. You don’t need a full renovation to breathe life into these spaces—you just need intention.
Elevate with Hardware
One of the easiest and most budget-conscious swaps is upgrading cabinet hardware. Dated knobs and handles can make even a freshly cleaned kitchen or bathroom feel lackluster. But by replacing them with matte black pulls, warm-toned brass, or vintage-style glass knobs, you introduce character instantly.
The best part? It’s completely reversible. Keep the original hardware in a labeled bag so you can reinstall it before moving out. This simple, non-damaging decor idea for apartment renters makes a major visual impact without a permanent footprint.
Layer in Lighting
Lighting is another often-overlooked detail in kitchens and baths—but it’s one of the most transformative elements. Rental properties tend to come with the most basic, builder-grade fixtures that cast harsh light or lack style altogether. But with an affordable plug-in pendant, battery-powered sconce, or even a stylish new flush mount (that you can reinstall later), you can completely change the mood of your space.
Esther, a renter known for her neutral, thoughtfully curated home, suggests adding soft accent lighting to create a more relaxed vibe. “A plug-in light over a breakfast nook or near the mirror makes your space feel more polished and welcoming,” she says.
Dress the Windows
Let’s talk window treatments. Standard blinds get the job done—but they rarely enhance the decor. For a warmer, more custom look, swap them out with linen curtains, bamboo shades, or even a fabric valance. These materials introduce texture and elevate the room with very little effort. Tension rods or damage-free hooks make installation stress-free and totally renter-approved.
Don’t Skip the Textiles
It might surprise you, but adding rugs to your kitchen or bathroom can make a world of difference. Rugs soften the space, warm up cold tile floors, and absorb sound—all while tying your design together. A small washable runner or low-profile mat with a subtle pattern can turn your sink area or vanity into a mini sanctuary.
Esther uses a medallion tassel rug in her bathroom for a plush, cozy feel. “People don’t think to style these rooms with textiles, but they’re just as deserving of personality as your living room or bedroom,” she says.
Curate the Everyday Details
Finally, add charm with simple, functional styling. A ceramic soap dispenser, a small vase of eucalyptus, or a pretty tray for organizing toiletries can elevate the everyday. These tiny touches make your routines feel more enjoyable—and your space more like home.
Embrace Easy DIYs to Elevate Your Space
One of Esther’s standout DIY projects is a custom headboard she created using lightweight materials and Command Strips—no screws, no holes, and no hassle. Made from foam and plywood wrapped in soft, neutral fabric, the headboard gave her bedroom a polished, high-end look while keeping things fully reversible. “It instantly made the room feel more finished,” she says. And since it’s not permanent, you can take it with you when you move or swap out the fabric when your style evolves.
This kind of renter-friendly DIY is ideal for anyone wondering how to add character to a rental without risking a security deposit. It proves that personal style doesn’t have to come with a price tag—or patching walls later.
DIY Around the Home
Esther’s creative mindset doesn’t stop in the bedroom. In her kitchen, she gave the island lights a mini-makeover by replacing outdated shades with styles that better matched her neutral palette. The result? A more cohesive, curated space. “It’s such a small change, but it made the kitchen feel like mine,” she notes.
Other quick wins include removable wallpaper backsplashes, custom curtain rods crafted from dowels, and contact-paper-lined drawers or countertops. These upgrades require minimal tools and materials but deliver serious design payoff.
Even storage gets the DIY treatment. Esther loves wrapping boxes in patterned paper to match her decor, organizing pantry staples in labeled jars, or mounting peg rails (with adhesive) for hanging kitchen tools or accessories. These kinds of DIYs bring functionality and charm together—ideal for renters looking to stay organized without compromising on style.
The Magic of Reversible Projects
What makes these projects so ideal for renters is that they’re fully temporary. You can experiment with your style, test your creativity, and enjoy a custom-designed home—all without losing your deposit when it's time to move. This flexibility gives renters the freedom to love where they live right now, not just someday in the future.
personal, and totally doable. You don’t need to renovate—you just need to get a little crafty.”
Esther’s Top 5 Fabulive Picks: Rugs That Transform Any Rental
When it comes to creating a warm, welcoming home in a rental apartment, few things make as big of an impact as the right rug. From defining spaces to softening hard floors, rugs add texture, warmth, and visual personality—without any permanent changes. And for apartment dwellers, that’s a dream come true.
Esther, a beloved content creator known for her cozy, minimalist-meets-modern design style, swears by rugs as one of her top decorating essentials. As a longtime fan of Fabulive, she’s experimented with dozens of designs throughout her rental journey. Her rug philosophy is simple: choose pieces that are versatile, renter-friendly, and full of charm. “They’re one of the easiest ways to upgrade a space instantly,” she says.
We asked Esther to narrow down her absolute favorites—her top rug picks for apartments—and she delivered a curated list of five rugs she constantly recommends to friends, family, and fellow renters looking to elevate their space with ease.
Chunky Jute Tasseled Rug (Off White)
Keyword focus: neutral jute rugs, best layering rugs for apartments
This off-white neutral jute rug is Esther’s go-to for creating a soft, natural foundation in any room. “It’s the most versatile rug I own,” she explains. The chunky woven texture brings a tactile, grounded feel, while the light neutral tone blends effortlessly into minimalist, coastal, or boho decor.
Esther often uses it as a layering base rug, placing a smaller, patterned rug on top to add contrast and depth. Still, she notes it’s strong enough to stand on its own, especially in entryways or dining areas.
Stucco Trellis Rug
Keyword focus: elegant rugs for bedrooms, plush rugs for renters
Looking to add instant polish? The Stucco Trellis Rug is Esther’s top pick for creating an upscale feel in both living rooms and bedrooms. Its plush underfoot softness and elegant trellis pattern give the impression of a luxury design—without the luxury price tag.
“It feels as good as it looks,” Esther says. “Soft, subtle, and super polished.” It’s an excellent choice for renters looking to make an impact with minimal effort.
Abstract Jute-Blend Runner
Keyword focus: durable runner rugs for hallways, apartment runner rugs
For high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways, this jute-blend runner rug is Esther’s favorite. Its abstract design adds subtle movement without overwhelming the space. Even better? The texture and color make it excellent at hiding everyday dirt.
“It adds life and warmth—but it’s super practical too,” she shares. A great reminder that style and functionality can coexist beautifully in a rental.
Shaggy Crosshatch Rug
Keyword focus: cozy rugs for living rooms, high pile rugs for lounging
This high-pile, cozy rug is the centerpiece of Esther’s living room. With a soft shag texture and contemporary crosshatch design, it’s both inviting and modern. Perfect for lounging, movie nights, or even impromptu naps.
“It’s that perfect balance of comfy and contemporary,” Esther says. It proves that a cozy vibe doesn’t have to come at the cost of style.
Moroccan Diamond Wool Rug
Keyword focus: wool rugs for layering, timeless rugs for renters
Featuring a classic Moroccan diamond pattern, this wool rug is one of Esther’s most-loved pieces for layering. She often pairs it with jute or braided rugs to create depth and texture in larger living rooms or under beds.
“It’s understated but still full of texture and charm,” she explains. Its natural feel and timeless design make it a favorite among renters and design lovers alike.
Rugs: The Unsung Heroes of Apartment Decorating
When you're decorating a rental, your options can feel frustratingly limited. No painting the walls, no installing new flooring, no tearing out that dated tile. But despite those restrictions, there’s one design element that renters can always count on to bring warmth, structure, and style to their space: rugs.
Rugs are the unsung heroes of apartment decorating. They offer the rare ability to make dramatic, visible change without permanent commitment—and for apartment dwellers, that’s gold. Esther, a home decor content creator known for transforming her rental into a serene and stylish sanctuary, calls rugs her go-to design solution.
“Rugs give you the freedom to totally transform a room without touching the floors or walls,” Esther explains.
Whether you're dealing with outdated tile in the kitchen, worn-out carpet in the bedroom, or cold laminate in the living room, removable rugs for apartments deliver an instant upgrade. Think of them as large-scale art for your floors—they define zones, add visual interest, soften sound, and elevate your overall aesthetic without so much as a nail or hammer.
Why Rugs Matter in Small Spaces
In small or open-concept apartments, rugs are essential for dividing and defining rooms. A well-placed area rug can anchor your sofa and coffee table, creating a “living room” even in a studio setup. In dining areas, a rug can visually separate your table and chairs from the rest of the space, lending structure and intentionality. And in bedrooms, a cozy rug underfoot instantly adds comfort, turning even a plain box of a room into a restful retreat.
What makes them so appealing for renters is their mobility and flexibility. Unlike most decor investments, you can take your rugs with you when you move—and use them in new ways in your next home. They evolve with your space and style.
Esther’s Top Rug Styling Tips
To get the most out of your rugs, Esther offers a few trusted tips:
Don’t be afraid to layer. “Even over carpet, layering a flatweave or jute rug adds depth and dimension,” she says. This is a great way to tone down wall-to-wall carpeting that doesn’t suit your taste.
Always use a rug pad. Not only do rug pads prevent slipping on hardwood or tile floors, but they also protect the floor beneath—an important consideration in rentals where damage fees can add up.
Play with proportion. Make sure your rug is large enough to ground your furniture. A too-small rug can make a room feel disjointed, while the right size ties everything together.
Use rugs as emotional anchors. Esther explains, “They ground your space—literally and emotionally. They just make everything feel more settled, more like home.”
A Functional & Beautiful Foundation
Rugs sit at the intersection of function and beauty. They absorb sound, protect floors, and offer a soft landing underfoot. But more than that, they express your personal style—whether you’re drawn to soft neutrals, bold patterns, or vintage textures.
And best of all? Rugs are entirely renter-friendly. They don’t require installation, they’re easy to swap out or rotate, and they bring instant personality into every room.