Small adjustments that can transform your space—no nails or hammers required.

Living Room Fireplace
Ryan Garvin Photography

There are a host of reasons why people choose to rent: More flexibility, significantly lower upfront costs, and so on. But when it comes to personalizing your space, there are a few roadblocks. Lease and rental agreements usually come with provisions about renovating or making any changes, which is why renters need to get creative with their interior design process.

If you’re not quite sure where to start, we turned to an expert. Here to help is Kaytie Gavis, lead stylist and designer at sKout, who also rents her home in Southern California. These are her eight simple rules to updating a rental property:

Gallery Wall by sKout Design

Voght Photography

1. Think Big

If your rental woes are about the size of your home, rest assured there’s a lot you can do to maximize the look and feel of any room.

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“Don’t be shy about playing with scale to make the most of a small space,” Gavis says. “Go for a statement piece like a big, bold sofa or a giant pendant light. You can even turn an affordable basket into a chic light fixture.”

Gavis says oversized art is another route for renters, and you can print a high-resolution photo or create a wall collage with vintage frames you snagged from a local flea market.

2. Don’t Sleep on Drapery

Another somewhat simple addition? Switch up the curtains in your rental property.

“Trust me, it can completely transform the feel of a room!” Gavis says. “Hang them higher and wider than the window to create the illusion of more space and light.” 

She also has a bonus tip: Layering with woven textures to elevate the look of a room—and you don’t need to spend hundreds or even thousands on an upgrade. She says there are stylish options at IKEA and Amazon. If you’re not allowed to drill into your walls, Gavis says Command Hooks are sure to become your BFF.

Wallpaper Nook by sKout Design

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3. Wallpaper Is Your Secret Weapon

Temporary wallpaper is one of Gavis’s go-tos for renters. “It’s a quick and easy way to add personality and punch to any room,” she says. “Just a heads up, though: Steer clear of bathrooms, since humidity and wallpaper are not best friends.” 

Need a little inspo? Gavis loves shopping for peel-and-stick wallpaper from Spoonflower, Katie Kime, and RoomMates.

4. More Plants, Please

Breathe new life into your home with help from a few fresh plants. “Not only do they bring in vibrant color, but they also improve air quality, reducing stress,” Gavis says.

Leather Couch sKout Design

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5. Move Furniture Away from Your Walls

First there was Baby in the corner, and now it’s your furniture. Gavis says having pieces pushed against your walls isn’t doing renters—especially those in small spaces—any favors. 

“Pulling your furniture away from the walls opens up the space, making it feel less cramped and more welcoming,” Gavis says.

6. Upgrade Your Throw Pillows

Accent pillows are an easy swap to redefine any room. Here’s another pro tip from Gavis: “Buy affordable pillow covers with zippers, then swap out the insert for a plush down pillow. IKEA is perfect for this, and you get that luxe feel without the hefty price tag.”

Striped Rug by sKout Design

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7. Look for Lower-Cost Rugs

Rugs aren’t known for affordability, but Gavis loves natural fiber rugs from IKEA or World Market for a “clean, Scandinavian vibe.” Want a pop of color? She suggests layering a smaller, patterned rug on top for a stylish contrast.

8. Hit up Flea Markets for Hidden Gems

If you’re tired of shopping online and want a weekend activity, do a little research and head over to a local flea market or thrift store

“You’d be surprised at the incredible finds you can score without breaking the bank,” she says. “Vintage treasures often come with a story and add so much character to your space!”


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