A Renter's Dilemma...Solved!

I empathize with renters, I really do. The flights of stairs, paper-thin walls, noisy neighbors? And to top it off, many landlords drag their feet when it comes to painting walls or updating the space in any way. In fact, today's Help! topic was sent in by a fellow reader in need of a major overhaul in her apartment... but her landlord says it's a no-go.

Renters, breathe a collective sigh of relief. These easy updates require few holes, cans of paint and/or equipment, perfect for a renter and guaranteed to make your landlord proud.

IN THE KITCHEN:
Can't paint the cabinets? Remove the doors temporarily and tape contact paper to the inside of cupboards. Organize your dinnerware and cover any unsightly messes with bright fabric.

Beige and unsightly tiles? Cover them up with temporary flooring tiles, such as FLOR. A bit of an investment, but you can peel them off and carry them with you to your new home!

Old appliances? Check out how to make these retro beauties work for you right here.

No storage? Add a few pegboards like Project Runway finalist Daniel Vosovic did in his beautiful (and rented!) kitchen.

IN THE LIVING ROOM
Can't paint your wall? Try a few fun wall decals, like these from Blik.

Can't put holes in your walls? Display your artwork using a ladder for shelving a la Real Simple.

Small space? Use small-scale furniture to avoid a cluttered look, and avoid boxy furniture. Glass end tables and coffee tables work best, as does pedestal furniture.

Hate white paint on your walls? Cover one wall with a floor-length drapery to add pattern to your space. Who said curtains can only cover windows?

IN THE BATHROOM
Hate your faux wood cabinets? Cover them with removable decals or contact paper (or a soft adhesive wallpaper like Nick did to his fridge!).

No storage? Add a tall pot rack in the corner of your bathroom for towels, toiletries and soaps.

Boring decor? Invest in a shower curtain you love, which will make all the difference. Keep it light and bright to maximize your space (I loooove this one!).


Clearly, the possibilities are endless. And no lawn to mow? Renting just went up like eighty points in my book...

Read More:
RentedSpaces rental listings
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-DIY: Alimode's Custom Bookcases
-I Need a Room Divider, but Don't Want it to be an Eyesore..