Fall is well underway, and it’s just about time to gear up for the holidays! That means cozy moments at home with loved ones and gatherings with friends from near and far. With a little creativity and a few simple updates, you can refresh your space just in time for hosting! Whether it's your kitchen, bathroom, or living spaces, these simple and practical improvements can make a noticeable impact—no renovations required. Best of all, every one of these renter-friendly upgrades will leave your walls, floors, and deposit perfectly intact when it’s time to move out.
We’ve also scoured the internet for some of the best videos of how to make these improvement dreams a reality! So let’s dive into some of the easiest ways to level up that rental.
1. Stick-On Wall Sconces
The lighting in your home is what sets the mood for any occasion, but the thought of mounting something or dealing with electrical work can be overwhelming, to say the least (if it’s even allowed by your building). Stick-on, rechargeable wall sconces are the ideal way to give your space a homey glow and also add a touch of sophistication!
2. New Faucets
This one might have you scratching your head. “Jolin, I’m not a plumber,” you say. While that is probably true for most of us, it is actually surprisingly simple to switch out a faucet. My husband and I did this in our rental and our kitchen immediately felt lux! Amazon offers plenty of affordable options and YouTube is chalk-full of helpful videos. Just make sure to purchase a piece that is compatible with your current plumbing fixtures.
3. Window Film
New York isn’t exactly known for its privacy. Raise your hand if you can see through your window into a neighbor’s apartment without leaving your couch. 🙋🏻♀️ Yeah, me too. Use window film to create privacy and visual interest without blocking your natural light! There are numerous designs and styles to choose from, so why not keep a liiiiittle mystery alive?
4. Adhesive Shower Hooks
Rentals are not exactly famous for coming with great bars or hooks for towels in a bathroom. Contractors typically install a single bar that leaves you wanting for more design inspiration, not to mention functionality. Installing a modern adhesive hook is a great way to increase the usability and practicality of the space because who doesn’t want space for more than one towel?
5. Upgrade your Shower Head
Have you ever gone to a spa and used their fancy showers and been like, MAN, that is relaxing?! Why not have that feeling every day at home? It's actually shockingly simple to change out a shower head. Most of them screw right on and off. It’s a simple swap that can dramatically improve water pressure and your daily routine. Bonus, you can easily reinstall the original before moving out and take the spa experience with you. Yes, please!
6. Peel + Stick Wallpaper and Tile
One of the most dramatic ways to transform spaces within your home is with peel and stick wallpaper and peel and stick tile! Get that subway tile you’ve always wanted in your bathroom or kitchen. Or add an intricate pattern to your living room walls that pleases your interior-design-loving heart. There are so many easy-to-install (and remove!) options out there, and you can find almost any pattern to match your aesthetic.
7. Vertical Shoe Cabinets
Low on space and don’t currently have the foyer of your dreams? Create your own with a simple shoe cabinet and some hooks! Nearly every apartment has the capacity for a shoe solution like this to keep the floor clear and provide a much-needed drop zone on top for your keys and wallet. Add a couple of brass 3M hooks and a mirror or some wall art and- bam!- fancy entrance. 💁🏻♀️
8. Cord Box
Let’s face it, charging cords and cables can be a messy eyesore. Adding a simple decorative cable box to conceal the chaos can breathe simplicity and clarity into your space in a jiffy. If you want to go the extra mile, use cord covers to camouflage tv or lamp wires that may be hanging on the walls or floorboards. This instantly gives your space a cleaner, more polished look—transforming visual clutter into a sleek, intentional design detail.
9. Swap out your Hardware
The old standard! A super easy and affordable way to elevate your home is by replacing the hardware throughout your spaces. Choose one cohesive design for everything, or give each room its own aesthetic by swapping out knobs, pulls, and switch covers to personalize your space. Hardware options are endless online! It's a deep rabbit hole.
10. Elfa Systems
If you’re wondering how to really upgrade your space and maximize all that your apartment has to offer, The Container Store’s Elfa closet systems are essentially a custom closet that you can uninstall and take with you! They are designed to create minimal damage to existing walls using a top track system that everything hangs off of. While your building may require you to reinstall a bar and a shelf when you move out, you get to have the luxury of a custom closet for however long you’re in your home. It’s a no-brainer!
With any of these upgrades, we promise you’ll be itching to host a wine or movie night and show off your newly transformed home. Whether it’s adding some peel-and-stick wallpaper for an instant facelift or upgrading small details like hardware and lighting, these quick fixes can transform any space. The best part? They’re all easy to install and remove, making them perfect for renters and DIY enthusiasts alike. So, get inspired, make a plan, and start turning your apartment into a stylish sanctuary today!