Simple Updates That Can Spruce Up Your Rented Apartment!

This post is provided by Lora Young.

It can be exciting to move into a new apartment, especially if it is going to be your first independent home. The freedom that can come with apartment living is convenient and affordable for most people. No outdoor maintenance, grass cutting or shoveling snow is required.

Average apartments are not known to be very architecturally pleasing but more functional in design. All the units in your building are likely to be very similar in set up if not identical and it can be a challenge to make the space feel like your own. Hire an electrician or a handyman to help you with any work that needs to be done for a quality professional job.

On top of the layout restrictions, you may have mandated limits to what you can and can not do with the interior of your apartment. You should always talk to your landlord or property manager before you make any updates. That being said, there are many small things that you can do to set your unit apart from the others and make it feel more like home. Change your lighting, your fixtures and even the colors to make everything feel more customized.

Lighting

Most apartments will only come equipped with the simplest overhead lighting. In older units, the lighting may also be very outdated. In the apartment industry, as long as something is still working it is unlikely to be updated to keep operating costs and rents low. A small change up in your lighting can make a big difference to the look and feel of your home. Consider replacing older ceiling fixtures with something more updated. Use floor and table lamps to add a more cozy atmosphere in your main area and bedrooms.

Faucets And Fixtures

You may have to talk to your landlord about making changes to your fixtures but in many cases, as long as you keep the original pieces to return to the property you may not have any hassles. Even the simplest new kitchen or bathroom faucet can give the whole room a more updated and modern feel.

Cabinets And Hardware

Many kitchen units that you will find can be very outdated. An easy coat of fresh paint and some new handle hardware can transform your kitchen from drab to fab in no time at all. When painting your cupboards, make sure to clean and prepare the surface properly to make sure the job is done with quality.

Curtains And Blinds

Add privacy and even a pop of color with updated blinds and curtains for your apartment. If you have any existing blinds or curtains that are damaged, you should talk to the landlord about a replacement. Let them know that you intend to purchase the new fittings yourself and work out an agreement for a refund of your money once installed.

Plants And Flowers

Nothing brings life to space like fresh flowers and plants. Even in a small apartment, there is always room for a small plant on a table or a standing plant on the floor. Hanging plants like ivy or ferns are great for adding softness to a room. If you have a balcony you can take advantage of the space by hanging flower pots or start your own fresh herb garden on your sills.