Simple Renter-Friendly Upgrades to Make to Your Space
Making your house feel like a home is a magical thing, if you ask me. It reflects who you are, and provides you with endless inspiration (especially if you spend a lot of time at home!). However, often times I notice people who rent, and we all know that renting is not uncommon now, tend to not feel inspired to update their space. They view their rental space as “not theirs”, a stepping stone on the way to home ownership, or not worth putting the effort into – well, I’m here to tell you, that while these things may be true, that doesn’t mean you can’t pour a little love and personality into your rental space & make it yours!
Of course, the items I’m about to list are what is allowed for renters in Canada, so please check with your local laws around what you’re allowed to change, upgrade and remove as a renter where you live. Now, let’s talk about some simple, renter-friendly upgrades that you can make to your space.
01. Wallpaper & Paint
Though wallpaper isn’t necessarily the most affordable upgrade you can make in a space, it surely packs a punch when it comes to transforming a space. I recently got this wallpaper, The Cotswolds*, for a feature wall in our bedroom from Rocky Mountain Decals (🇨🇦), and I cannot get over how much of a difference it makes in our space. If you want to go a more affordable, but equally impactful route, a can of paint goes a long way!
I also recently decided to give my kitchen a little refresh with some paint on the lower cupboards. At first, I wasn’t sure if I loved it or hated it, but I quickly came around to it after seeing it in the morning light. I used Interior Premier Paint for Kitchen & Bath from Canadian Tire, with a Satin finish in the shade Honey Milk.
* Product was gifted.
02. Hanging Shelving, Hooks, Art & Photos
Hanging up things like shelves, hooks, and various types of art & personal photos really makes a huge difference in making your space feel more like a home. I like to do a combination of photos that are personal to our family, and art that I’ve collected (whether it be from HomeSense, or prints from a local shop), especially in a gallery wall. I also like to hang up shelves, and decorate those with various framed pieces, tasteful faux flowers and knick knacks.
03. Swapping Hardware
I swear, one of the most impactful (and affordable) changes you can make is swapping out your hardware. It’s relatively cheap when you’re considering the cost of a can of paint or a new overhead light in comparison, and it can make a huge difference in your space. I love these brass knobs, as well as these brass drawer pulls from IKEA for the kitchen and bathroom.
04. Window Treatments
I feel like hanging up proper window treatments isn’t something that everyone automatically thinks to do, and I’m not sure why? Maybe I’m completely wrong, but adding curtains completely changes a space for me, and it’s one of the first things I will do when decorating a new space. I also like to add sheers for a little privacy, but if sheers aren’t your thing, I’m a huge fan of roman blinds as well. Though I don’t currently have a window that I need this for, café curtains are another favourite of mine, and the moment I have a kitchen window over my sink… I will undeniably have café curtains!
05. Swapping Lighting
Though it can be more on the expensive side, thrifting or purchasing lighting from a more affordable store such as IKEA, or HomeSense, to replace the classic renter-grade lighting in your home is a must for me. And while we’re at it, purchase more “small” lights, or lower wattage bulbs to combat "the big light”. Overhead lights can be so harsh, and using “small” lights make your space feel so much cozier.
06. Decorating Intentionally
This may sound silly at face value, but decorating with intention makes a huge difference. In my opinion, it starts with identifying exactly what you like in your space – in my case, I love a more cottage-inspired look, so finding complimentary patterns, colours and textures for things like bedding, or cushions is what makes the space feel intentional rather than just throwing stuff that may not necessarily look good together onto the bed. This thinking also extends into your wall art, knick knacks and other decor.
As I mentioned at the start of this blog, I think many people look at their rental space as a stepping stone, rather than what they’re currently living in. I hope this blog inspired you to make some small, but impactful updates to your space if you rent, and remember it’s still your space – there’s nothing wrong with wanting your space to reflect who you are.
* Note: Links and linked products featured in this blog post are commissionable links. Should you purchase a product with these links, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you.
