Living in rental space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your personal style. Whether you are living in Murray Hill New York apartments or Chelsea apartments, there are many ways you can personalize your living space even if you are not the owner. Even a few low budget switches will make the place feel more like your own. How to customize your rental space without breaking the bank or angering the landlord?
Know The Rental Restrictions
Some landlords really don’t care what you do to the rental, as long as it can be rented when you leave. You are free to paint your apartment a color other than white or whatever beige it currently is, and, as long as you choose a relatively conservative color, you may not have to repaint before you leave. Other landlords don’t care if you do volunteer to repaint before you leave, they don’t want you painting the walls. Some landlords don’t mind if you decorate the walls, while others don’t want as much as a nail hole put into the drywall. Knowing what your landlord expects makes it easier to decide what direction your decorating should go.
Keep Good Records
If your landlord agrees to let you make some minor modifications, you can save yourself a huge headache when you move by keeping good records. Know what color and brand paint is currently gracing your apartment, so you can easily repaint it when the time comes. If you decide to swap out cabinet hardware, an easy and inexpensive way to update a bath or small kitchen, label and store the original hardware some place safe.
Don’t Be Afraid To Go Bold
No matter how flexible your landlord, it is unlikely that you will want to make a huge financial investment in your rented pad. Instead, think of bold changes that pack a big punch. Colorful drapes, fun throw pillows for the sofa and even a stencil on one accent wall that can easily be painted over when you move are all ways to make a big impact with little investment.
Furnishings Count
Sure, wall color, cabinets and appliances may be determined when you move into a rental, but the furnishings are not. The furniture you use can really make a difference in how you feel about your apartment. Arrange the furniture you have and decide if it fits and looks good in your new place. If the scale is wrong or it doesn’t fill up the space in a way that pleases your eye, you can fix the problem inexpensively by heading to your local thrift store. Furniture is inexpensive in thrift shops, and, if you have never shopped in one, you may be surprised at the quality and selection available. If the finish is less than perfect, you can smooth things out with a fresh coat of paint.
