Renter-Friendly Upgrades: 25 Easy Ideas to Transform Your Apartment
By: Enigma Content Team | Last updated: November 5, 2025
Your apartment doesn’t have to feel bland or basic. With a few smart renter-friendly upgrades, you can turn a plain rental into a cozy home without risking your security deposit. These ideas are easy, affordable, and completely removable when you move out.
Here are 25 must-try renter-friendly upgrades for 2025 that bring personality, function, and comfort to your space.
1. Peel-and-Stick Tile Magic
If you want to change your kitchen or bathroom fast, peel-and-stick tiles are your best friend. They come in all styles—from subway tiles to modern marble—and install in minutes.
You can use them on walls, backsplashes, or even as a statement border. Just make sure to place a removable contact paper layer underneath so they peel off cleanly later.
2. Use a Backing for Easy Removal
Peel-and-stick products can be strong. To avoid damage, add a layer of removable contact paper or shelf liner under the tile. It creates a smooth base and makes removal a breeze when it’s time to move out.
3. Create Optical Illusions with Color
A few color tricks can make your apartment look bigger and brighter. Use light-colored rugs in narrow hallways or vertical patterns on walls to make ceilings feel taller.
Try light peel-and-stick wallpaper in small bathrooms to reflect more light. This helps tiny rooms feel open and airy.
4. Try 3M Claw Hooks for Heavy Items
Need to hang heavy decor? Skip the drill. 3M Claw Hooks can hold large mirrors and artwork without major wall damage. They leave only pin-sized holes you can patch with spackle when moving out.
5. Swap Out Old Light Bulbs
Lighting changes everything. Switch yellow, dim bulbs for bright white daylight bulbs in bathrooms and kitchens. Use warmer bulbs in bedrooms and living rooms for cozy, soft light.
Even if your fixtures are outdated, new bulbs can make them look modern.
6. Disguise Ugly Ceiling Lights
If you hate your basic ceiling fixture, disguise it! A clever trick is to hang a basket shade or lightweight cover over the existing light. You’ll get a designer look without rewiring or permanent changes.
7. Use Tension Rods Everywhere
Tension rods are not just for showers. Use them to hang curtains, create closet covers, or block off messy storage spaces. They’re cheap, damage-free, and surprisingly sturdy.
8. Work with What You Have
Instead of fighting your apartment’s features—like old cabinets or colored tile—embrace them. Match your decor to what’s already there. If your cabinets are warm yellow, add gold or neutral decor for balance.
This makes the space feel intentional and well-styled.
9. Invest in Neutral Furniture
If you move often, pick neutral-colored furniture that fits with any wall or floor tone. Beige, gray, or wood-tone pieces adapt easily to new rentals and prevent clashing colors.
10. Add Meaningful Decor
Fill your home with personal touches—vintage finds, travel souvenirs, or handmade art. It’s easy to get inspired by Pinterest-perfect homes, but your space should reflect you.
Frame a favorite photo, display thrifted art, or show off a hobby.
11. Rotate Art Prints with the Seasons
Etsy has endless digital art downloads for just a few dollars. Print seasonal artwork and swap it in and out of frames throughout the year. It’s a small change that makes
your home feel fresh and fun.
12. Use Under-Bed Storage
Never waste space under your bed. Flat storage bins are perfect for out-of-season clothes, wrapping paper, or shoes.
Hide it all with a DIY bed skirt for a tidy, upholstered look.
13. DIY Your Own Furniture
Don’t be scared to build or customize furniture. A simple headboard, coffee table, or nightstand can be made with basic supplies from a hardware store.
Painting or reupholstering old pieces gives them new life—and saves money.
14. Frame Mirrors and TVs
Framing can instantly upgrade your space. A thin wooden frame around a basic mirror makes it look high-end. Add a custom border around your TV for an art-gallery feel.
You can use trim, glue, and removable strips to attach frames safely.
15. Hide Wire Shelves
Wire shelving is practical but rarely stylish. Cover them with wood planks or trim boards to make them look built-in.
You’ll still get storage—but now it looks intentional and polished.
16. Replace Cabinet Hardware
Swapping out drawer pulls or handles is an easy upgrade. Choose brushed brass, matte black, or wood finishes for a quick kitchen refresh.
Just save the original hardware to reattach before moving out.
17. Upgrade Towel Bars
Bathroom hardware is another small detail that makes a big impact. Replace towel bars, toilet paper holders, and hooks for a cleaner, more cohesive look.
They install using the same holes, so there’s no damage or drilling.
18. Build a Removable Wall Arch
Arches are trending in 2025—and you can add one without construction. Use lightweight wood or foam board to build a curved accent, then paint it to match your wall.
Attach it with tiny nails or removable adhesive for easy removal.
19. Hang Pendant Lights
Want better lighting in your kitchen or living room? Try renter-safe pendant lights. Some attach with Command hooks and rechargeable bulbs—no wiring needed.
It’s an easy way to create soft, warm light without ceiling damage.
20. Use Rechargeable Light Bulbs
Rechargeable bulbs are a renter’s dream. They don’t need outlets and can fit in any lamp. Many come with remotes to change brightness or color tone.
Perfect for spots where outlets are scarce—like kitchens or hallways.
21. Add a Removable Accent Wall
Accent walls transform any room fast. Try peel-and-stick wallpaper, temporary wood panels, or foam molding. They’re simple to apply and easy to remove.
You’ll love how much character it adds to plain white walls.
22. Build Patio Privacy Screens
Outdoor renters—this one’s for you. Create a simple privacy wall with wood slats or bamboo panels. It gives you a little separation from neighbors while still letting light through.
You can take it down at the end of your lease.
23. Start a Balcony Garden
Container gardens are perfect for small spaces. Use railing planters or stackable pots for herbs, flowers, or even vegetables.
It brings life to your balcony and gives you fresh ingredients for cooking.
24. Add Small Storage Shelves
A small over-the-stove shelf or floating shelf above the toilet adds both style and storage. You can display decor or keep essentials close at hand.
They install easily with removable wall strips or tension brackets.
25. Choose Function Over Perfection
A stylish apartment is great, but function matters more. Create storage near your entryway, keep laundry bins accessible, and design your space around your habits.
Your home should make life easier—not just prettier.
Why These Renter-Friendly Upgrades Matter
These small changes make a big difference in how you feel every day. You’ll feel more relaxed, creative, and proud of your space.
And since every upgrade is reversible, you get the joy of customizing your home without worrying about your lease or losing your deposit.
Common Mistakes Renters Make (and Simple Fixes)
- Skipping the small stuff:
Swapping bulbs, adding hooks, or using light curtains can totally change a space. Don’t overlook these quick wins. - Using permanent solutions:
Avoid things like glue, nails, or non-removable wallpaper unless you’re ready to fix damage later. - Ignoring what’s already there:
Instead of fighting the cabinet color or floors, work with them. Use matching tones or neutral furniture to pull things together. - Focusing only on looks:
Pretty setups are fun, but function matters more. If it doesn’t make life easier, it won’t last. - Leaving walls blank:
Use temporary decor like peel-and-stick wallpaper, removable decals, framed art, or hanging textiles to make it feel like home. - Forgetting storage tricks:
Maximize space with under-bed bins, over-door racks, or furniture that hides clutter. Small changes here really help.
Make Your Milwaukee Apartment Feel Like Home
If you’re renting in Milwaukee or Wisconsin, Enigma Properties can help you find apartments that match your lifestyle.
We offer beautiful, well-kept units across the city—ready for all your renter-friendly upgrades.
Check out our current listings to find a space you’ll love coming home to.
FAQs
Q: What are renter-friendly upgrades?
A: They’re temporary home improvements you can add without damaging the property—like peel-and-stick wallpaper or removable shelves.
Q: Do landlords allow renter-friendly upgrades?
A: Most do! Always check your lease first, but anything non-permanent or easy to remove is usually fine.
Q: What’s the easiest upgrade to start with?
A: Lighting and peel-and-stick tiles give instant results with minimal effort.
Q: How do I avoid wall damage?
A: Use Command strips, tension rods, or adhesive hooks that leave no residue.
Q: Can I personalize a small apartment?
A: Absolutely! Use light colors, mirrors, and multi-purpose furniture to make it feel bigger.
Sources
- Apartment Therapy – 25 Renter-Friendly Decor Ideas for 2025, June 2025.
- The Spruce – Temporary Upgrades That Don’t Damage Walls, May 2024.
- Better Homes & Gardens – Affordable Apartment Makeovers, March 2025.
- Real Simple – Best Lighting Tips for Renters, August 2024.
- RentCafe – Trends in Renter Design 2025, accessed November 2025.
