The 5 *Best* Ways to Update a Rental Apartment

Coterie member Gabriela Gargagno of Grisoro Designs swears by adding interest with elevated lighting fixtures. Her tried-and-true go tos? “Wall-mounted plug-in sconces instead of table lamps (who doesn’t love a good swing-arm sconce?), and if you have harsh, recessed lighting, add a few interesting lamps with soft lighting to create a more inviting space.”

Interior designer Bella Mancini swears that curtains, roller shades, blinds and elevated window hardware can make a space feel light-years more polished and personalized. “Custom window treatments are literally so transformative that they’re worth the expense!” she insists.

The single most impactful way to upgrade a rental? Removable wallpaper, of course—even if it’s just an accent wall or two. “You can’t take it when you leave, but wallpaper really adds so much personality,” says Coterie member and Homepolish designer Tina Rich. “It’s well worth it”.

If you know that your space is temporary, it can be tempting to opt for bargain furniture. But if you ask designer Tharon Anderson, quality pieces are a worthy splurge—not to mention, the best way to make your space feel like a real grown-up home. “If a standard-size sofa fits in your apartment, it will surely fit in your house some day,” she says. Don’t waste money and displeasure on a lumpy sofa that will only last a few years.”

An oldie but a goodie: In most rental spaces, you’re welcome to paint the walls if you return them back to their original state upon leaving. So why not take advantage? “Don't shy away from painting your rental just because you’ll likely have to paint it back,” says Homepolish designer Tali Roth. “It's important to create a space that feels uniquely you in the interim, and a coat of paint is the best way to achieve that.”