Living in a rental doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful living room. With a few smart decorating ideas, you can make your apartment feel like home and still keep your security deposit.
These temporary solutions let you express your style while respecting your landlord’s property.
From modular furniture to temporary wallpaper, you have tons of ways to personalize your living room without permanent changes.
1. Peel-and-Stick Removable Wallpaper for Easy Accent Wall
Tired of plain white walls? Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a renter’s dream—it goes up fast and comes off clean when you leave.
There are tons of renter-friendly designs online. You can swap out styles in minutes with hundreds of patterns.
For a budget hack, some renters use clear tape to secure wallpaper edges. This project adds personality without breaking your lease.
2. Colorful Moroccan Area Rug for Vibrant Style
A colorful area rug can transform your rental living room without touching the floors. The Moroccan shag rug is a favorite for adding warmth and style.
These rugs come in sizes from 6×9 to 12×15, and their plush texture feels amazing underfoot. Pick soft grays for a subtle vibe, or go bold with geometric patterns for a boho-chic look.
The durable material means it’ll last through your rental years.
3. Modular Seating Arrangements for Added Flexibility
Renting often means your living situation changes. Modular furniture like the Burrow Nomad Sofa lets you adapt your space on the fly.
You can rearrange the pieces to fit different layouts or split them up for a movie night or a cozy reading corner. When you move, just reconfigure the sofa to fit your new place—no need to buy new furniture.
4. Collectibles on Floating Shelves
Floating shelves let you show off your favorite things without making a mess of your rental walls. Display anything from little figurines to books and plants.
Properly installed shelves can hold up to 20 pounds, but adhesive options work too—just stick to lighter items. Restyle your shelves when you want a new look, and add some display space that actually feels like you.
5. Greenery with Low-Maintenance Plants
Plants instantly bring life to any living room. Pothos are perfect for renters—they thrive in low light and barely need attention.
Try hanging a golden pothos in the corner or placing it on a shelf. Other easy plants include snake plants and ZZ plants.
Use decorative pots to match your style. They’ll freshen the air and make your space feel more alive.
6. No-Drill Curtain Rods to Avoid Wall Damage
Want to hang curtains without risking your deposit? Kwik-Hang brackets are a renter’s best friend.
Just tap them into the top of your window frame—no drilling, no mess. Installation only takes a few minutes, and you don’t need any fancy tools.
Your curtains will look great, and you won’t have to patch up holes later.
7. Decorative Switch Covers for Added Personality
Want a quick upgrade? Swap those boring white switch plates for something with a little personality.
Amazon has stylish brass, black, or designer covers for just a few bucks. Just unscrew the old plate and pop on the new one.
Keep the originals to put back when you move out—your landlord will never know.
8. Soft Throw Blankets and Playful Patterned Pillows
Throw blankets and colorful pillows make your rental feel like home in seconds. Mix up patterns and textures for a cozy, inviting vibe.
Try stripes with florals or bold geometrics. Coastal blues or bright colors can really wake up the room.
Switch out your accessories with the seasons—light fabrics for summer, chunky knits for winter.
9. Multi-Functional Furniture Such as Storage Ottomans
Storage ottomans are a lifesaver in rentals. They work as a footrest, seat, and secret storage all at once.
Look for ottomans with removable tops so you can stash blankets or remotes inside. Some even fold out into guest beds.
Pick pieces that fit your style and make your space work harder for you.
10. Peel-and-Stick Wall Decals
Wall decals add instant flair without any commitment. These removable designs come in all sorts of patterns, quotes, and art styles.
You can put them up in minutes, and they peel off clean when it’s time to go. Try a bold design behind your couch or scatter smaller decals for a unique touch.
11. Cozy Reading Nook with a Floor Lamp and Accent Chair
Turn that awkward corner into your new favorite spot. Place a comfy accent chair by the window for natural light.
Add a floor lamp that arches over the chair for nighttime reading. Choose a chair with arms so you can curl up with a good book.
A small side table for your coffee and a soft throw blanket finish the look. No permanent changes needed.
12. Removable Adhesive Hooks to Hang Art Without Holes
You don’t have to put holes in your walls to hang art! Removable adhesive hooks and strips work on wood, drywall, and even steel.
Check the weight limit before you hang anything heavy. When you’re ready to move, just peel them off—no residue, no marks.
It’s kind of amazing how easy it is to swap out your art without upsetting your landlord.
13. Large Mirrors Open Up and Brighten the Room
Large mirrors make your living room look bigger and bounce light around. Place one near a window to reflect natural light.
This trick opens up your rental and makes it feel airier. Mirrors also add a stylish touch and serve a real purpose.
You can find affordable options that won’t damage your walls if you mount them properly.
14. Temporary Wallpaper Borders for Quick Stylish Change
Wallpaper borders add a little personality without the hassle of full wallpaper. These adhesive strips come in patterns like wood grain, florals, or geometrics.
Stick them along the top of walls, around doors, or as accents in kitchens and bathrooms. Many are waterproof and heat-resistant, so you can use them anywhere.
They peel off easily when you move. It’s a small project, but it makes a surprisingly big visual impact!
15. Lightweight Foldable Side Tables for Small Spaces
Foldable side tables make life easier for renters who love to change up their living room. You can find them in oak wood and other materials, and they disappear into a closet when you don’t need them.
Honestly, I use these as coffee tables one day, then bedside tables the next. If friends drop by, just grab one and unfold it for instant extra space.
Lightweight garden stools also work as handy side tables. They’re easy to move and bring a little splash of color to your place.