Decorating an apartment presents a unique challenge: you want style and personalization, but you need budget-friendly, non-permanent solutions. The key to successful cheap apartment decorating ideas is leveraging the power of temporary fixes, smart thrifting, and maximizing vertical space.
Forget losing your security deposit! These 12 high impact hacks will transform your rental into a customized, chic home without major investment or damage.
1. Embrace the Power of Removable Wallpaper
Nothing transforms a plain white wall faster than pattern and color.
- The Hack: Use peel-and-stick removable wallpaper (or even decorative contact paper) on one accent wall, the back of a bookshelf, or the front of cabinet drawers. It installs easily and peels off cleanly when you move.
- The Look: Choose subtle textures (like faux grasscloth or linen) or trending patterns (like abstract line art or muted florals).
2. Master the Command Strip Gallery Wall
Command Strips are the renter’s best friend. Use them to create high-impact wall displays.
- The Hack: Use Command Picture Hanging Strips for framed art, mirrors, and lightweight shelves. They hold surprisingly heavy items and leave no mark upon removal.
- The Strategy: Create a gallery wall using small, affordable frames (unified by one color, like matte black or white) to cover large sections of wall space without multiple nail holes.
3. Layered Lighting for Instant Ambiance
Harsh overhead lighting makes any apartment feel sterile. Create atmosphere cheaply.
- The Hack: Focus on warm LED string lights (fairy lights) and table lamps. Drape the string lights around mirrors or headboards. Buy a warm-toned light bulb (2700K) for your desk or floor lamp.
- The Vibe: Creates a soft, cozy, and inviting mood that instantly elevates the aesthetic.
4. Utilize Vertical Space with Over-the-Door Storage
Doors are often forgotten real estate, perfect for thin, vertical storage.
- The Hack: Hang an over-the-door shoe organizer on the back of your pantry or closet door. Repurpose the pockets for cleaning supplies, snacks, toiletries, or craft materials.
- The Benefit: Clears up counter space and cabinets without putting holes in the wall.
5. The Thrift Flip for Statement Pieces
Never buy new decorative accents; transform thrift finds instead.
- The Hack: Find ugly but sturdy vases, candle holders, or picture frames. Use matte spray paint (stone effect, terracotta, or simple matte white) to unify them into a sophisticated, cohesive collection.
- The Strategy: Use these custom pieces as focal points on shelves or tabletops.
6. Curtains Hung High and Wide
This easy trick dramatically improves the perceived size of a room.
- The Hack: Mount your curtain rod as close to the ceiling as possible (rather than just above the window frame) and extend the rod several inches wider than the window on both sides.
- The Illusion: Your ceiling will look taller, and your window will look larger and grander.
7. Strategic Area Rugs
Rugs anchor furniture and define zones in open-concept apartments.
- The Hack: Buy the largest rug you can afford, using the “front legs on” rule (only the front legs of the sofa and chairs need to rest on the rug). This allows you to buy a slightly smaller (and cheaper) size.
- The Material: Choose polypropylene for durability and low cost, or jute/sisal for natural texture.
8. DIY Textured Art and Simple Line Drawings
Custom art for under $10? Absolutely.
- The Hack: Use spackle or joint compound on a cheap canvas to create trendy, sculptural textured art. Alternatively, use a black paint pen on poster board to create simple, minimalist line drawings.
- The Look: High-end, gallery-style art achieved with hardware store supplies.
9. Basket Storage as Decor
Storage doesn’t have to be ugly. Use baskets to contain clutter beautifully.
- The Hack: Invest in woven baskets (rattan, seagrass) from discount home stores.
- The Function: Use them to hide blankets, charging cables, mail, and miscellaneous clutter on shelves or under console tables. They add crucial natural texture.
10. Simple Backsplash with Contact Paper
A perfect, temporary kitchen transformation.
- The Hack: Apply marble look or subway tile pattern contact paper directly over your existing kitchen backsplash or counter surface.
- The Rule: Measure carefully and clean the surface thoroughly for the best, bubble-free application.
11. Utilize Mobile and Dual-Purpose Furniture
Apartments demand flexibility.
- The Hack: Invest in a storage ottoman (extra seating + hidden storage) or a rolling utility cart (mobile coffee bar or kitchen overflow) that can be easily moved when the layout needs to change.
12. Create Mirror Magic
Mirrors are the cheapest way to make a space feel larger and brighter.
- The Hack: Place a large, full-length mirror leaning against a wall, opposite a window.
- The Benefit: It reflects light and the view, instantly multiplying the perceived size and brightness of your small apartment.
Final Thoughts: Intentional and Temporary Style
The most effective cheap apartment decorating ideas are intentional and reversible. By focusing your budget on layered lighting and high-impact textiles, and using damage-free hacks for your walls, you can create a beautiful, personalized space that feels like home without compromising your wallet or your lease.
