It’s important to consider the style of the rental home. For instance, you might be renting a home that lends itself to a European cottage look when in reality your personal aesthetic may be more minimal or modern. The most important thing is to incorporate a few pieces that will blend your style or what you currently have with the vibes of the current finishes you can’t change. For example, if the flooring is a different surface than you would pick, that’s ok! There are many ways to update or change the look of finishes that won’t break your bank.

When you’re designing a rental home, you don’t necessarily have to fall in love with each individual piece. Some pieces may not be something you’re personally drawn to, but because you need to mix what you have with the current space, you may have to choose a couple of transitional pieces.

Lighting:

I think most people have the impression that lighting is extremely expensive to purchase and even more expensive to install. While, yes, you can spend a fortune on lighting, you can also purchase lighting on a budget and have it easily installed for a generally minimal price. You can either install lighting in place of a current fixture or create the space for a new one. But, you want to be confident knowing that when you move out, your handyman can easily patch and paint the hole. Lighting is the best way to elevate a space, create separate areas in an open floor plan or a small space and add an elevated focal point to any home.

Here are my top picks for inexpensive lighting:

This black woven pendant is transitional enough for most spaces and makes a very cool statement or can be dressed down with neutral decor for a more casual look. This particular pendant is from World Market for $69, though you can find other, nearly identical versions from retailers for upwards of $500! Talk about a great way to get a designer look for less! I’ve also used two side by side for more of an impact.

Black Woven Bamboo Pendant Shade

This chandelier is also a great and inexpensive choice because it doesn’t take up a lot of space and it provides a very transitional aesthetic.

6-Light Candle Style Chandelier

This fixture is also a great transitional, neutral piece:

3-Light Empire Chandelier

Windows:

After lighting, window sheers are the most impactful way to change the look of any space. Window treatments can get very expensive, so these ones from Ikea are the perfect solution for a rental home!

Rugs:

Flooring is one of the most costly things to replace in a home. Most landlords try and get the most mileage out of their flooring and so many times it tends to look dated. Often times, even if it isn’t dated, it might not be exactly what you would choose. The solution to this dilemma? Rugs! Rugs are not only a great way to bring an updated look to older flooring, but they also add another layer of warmth, texture and interest to any space. Much like lighting, they’re also a great way to define a space, create separate areas and transition your style and decor with the current finishes of the home.

Here are my favorite affordable rugs:

Bathroom:

I love this big impact shower curtain!

Capri Border Shower Curtain

Fresh hardware makes the biggest difference in the world.

Accessories:

Accessories are the easiest way to transition your home and give you the feel you are looking for! Throws, books, trays, art, picture frames, potted plants, candles, objects, etc. Picking up meaningful items while traveling or seeking items that are meaningful to you or family members is the perfect way to not only make any space your own, but it’s the key to transforming a house into a home.