Temporary Solutions

Turning a Rental Into a Home with Small Decorative Changes

Since I graduated High School, I've lived in six different temporary homes. All in less than five years.

I probably don't have to tell you, but this is coming from personal experience. I have come to the realization that it is somewhat difficult to really settle down and make a home for yourself when you don't stay in one place for more than a year. This time around, though, I planned on staying for at least two years.

So I put hours into painting the entire main living area. Lots of money, too.

Sherwin-Williams Kilim Beige.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And I put more money into decorating the place. Fortunately, I've been doing all this over the span of nearly a year, and I got a lot of these things for free, or nearly free.

Unfortunately, I don't think I'll be here for two years, either. 

I won't go into detail, because nothing is set into stone yet, but my point is there are ways you can put your own personal touches in an apartment or rental home without putting too much time or money into it.

The first thing to keep in mind is there are some things you cannot change about a rental home. So, work with the things you do have control over: paint color (if painting is allowed), furniture, window treatments, accessories and wall hangings.

Use these things to express your personality. As money allows, swap that your great-grandparents' old sofa for something you love. Is there a print in a calendar you love and cannot bear to toss? Tear it out and frame the picture so you can keep it without cluttering your apartment.

Finally, take your time. If you don't plan on sticking around for long, you will no sooner finish decorating and it will be time to pack up and move on. So, I'm not putting much more time or money into this place. I'll take what I have and pick up where I left off in another rental.

Learn more about decorating a rental to reflect your style.