Four Simple, Affordable Ways to Make Your Apartment Feel like Home
If you’re like me, you also dream about the day when you have a home that’s fully yours. When you can design your own kitchen, hang your own light fixtures, paint the walls the color you want…
However, even if you don’t currently own your home and are still in the renting boat (like me!), there are still so many simple and affordable ways to add special touches and transform your apartment into feeling like it was made just for you. My home decor philosophy for renters is to use finishing touches as a way to bring your personality and personal style to make the space feel like it’s yours. Here are a few simple ways to effortlessly elevate your apartment. Home owners — these tips also work for you!
area rugs
Although you can’t change the flooring in your apartment, one thing you do have control over is what you put on top of your floors, and area rugs are your answer. It may seem silly, but I swear they have super power abilities to define a space, while also evoking harmony and balance to make a room feel fully complete. I encourage you to use area rugs throughout your apartment to elevate each space and add a dose of your personality throughout your home. Personally, I prefer vintage-inspired, neutral-colored rugs (shocker, I know), however, for those that prefer a bolder option, area rugs are a great way to incorporate patterns, colors, or different textures into your apartment. Plus, they can be used in practically every room. Consider adding a larger area rug in your bedroom or living room, and runners for your kitchens and hallways. Here are a couple dreamy rugs I’m eyeing for my next apartment.
window treatments
I don’t know who needs to hear this, but curtains and shades make a difference in a home. And, I’m not just saying that. If your apartment is lacking some finishing touches, you should consider adding some high-quality window treatments to your space. I just recently purchased curtains for my bedroom and it finally feels like the room is complete. West Elm has a beautiful selection of curtains, drapes, and shades that will make your home feel simultaneously homey and high end.
artwork
You may not have flexibility to paint the walls in your apartment, but you do have the freedom to add artwork. It may seem like a no brainer, but artwork really is essential to incorporate some personal flare into your apartment. And by artwork I don’t mean a flag of your favorite city or a banner from your alma mater. I mean ART. You could consider a gallery wall, a large framed canvas, smaller black and white prints in matted frames, the list goes on. The art you incorporate into your home reflects you. So, consider adding pieces that “speak to you.” Below are some classic, affordable artwork I think would be be beautiful additions to any home.
fresh flowers
Now, I kid you not when I tell you that fresh flowers can brighten a room, just like that. So, no matter if you own or rent, you need fresh flowers. I’ve been blessed to have a roommate who is a full-time floral designer. She regularly brings home fresh, beautiful flowers that breathe life into our home. But, even if you don’t have a live-in florist, you don’t need to spend a lot of money on florals. Trader Joe’s flower section is a god send. Fresh eucalyptus, bright tulips, ranunculus, peonies… you name it, they likely have it, and for CHEAP. But, don’t forget: although flowers are the statement piece, it’s important to have a few different vases to show off your new florals. I’m sharing a few favorites below.
What other ways have you made your apartment feel like home? Tell me in the comments!