Moving into a new apartment can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to decorating. Whether you're moving out of UGA dorms, settling into your first downtown Athens apartment, or a graduate student looking to add personality to your spacious Westside Athens apartment, making your new home your own is an exciting step. The challenge, however, is ensuring that your decorating style reflects your personality while also being renter-friendly. Luckily, there are plenty of creative ways to spruce up your space without damaging the apartment. Here are some renter-friendly decor guides to help you personalize your new home.
Hanging Pictures Without Damage
One of the easiest and most effective ways to decorate your new apartment is by hanging pictures. However, renters often face the challenge of not being able to put holes in the walls. Fortunately, there are several ways to add artwork and photos to your space without leaving a trace when it's time to move out.
1. Adhesive hooks are a popular solution for renters as they can support framed artwork without damaging walls.
2. Floating shelves are another great option which allow you to display pictures and other decor items without drilling holes. These can be secured with adhesives as well.
3. Unframed pictures offer a more casual look, you can tape directly to the walls, or use a
tension rod to hang a gallery of artwork in a doorway or along a wall.
4. Leaning pictures against the wall on top of a dresser or console table can add a modern and laid-back vibe to your space, and it doesn't require any commitment or damage to the walls.
Creative Kitchen Decorations
The kitchen is often a central space in any home, and renters can still get creative with decorating without causing damage.
1. Peel-safe laminate on countertops and floors is an easy way to personalize your kitchen. These removable sheets come in a variety of styles and can instantly transform the look of your kitchen without leaving any sticky residue when removed.
2. Painting walls, cabinets, or a backsplash is a great way to bring a pop of color to your space. Before making any major changes, it's worth asking your landlord or property management if you're allowed to paint certain areas.
3. DIY is another easy and fun decorating idea. You can make your own clay fridge magnets or create art on a fridge whiteboard to give the kitchen a more personal and colorful touch.
Furniture That Fits and Stays in Place
Rearranging furniture in a rental apartment can be tricky, especially when you don't want to risk damaging the floors or walls. The key to furniture placement in a rental is to plan carefully and use accessories to protect your floors and create a cohesive look.
1. Furniture pads are essential for preventing scratches and dents when moving furniture around.
2. A large area rug can also help define different spaces, be easily moved or replaced, and protect your floors from sliding furniture.
3. Pre-designed furniture layouts are a perk of many apartment communities around UGA. With these plans, you don't have to haul heavy pieces around or worry about furniture marks on the floor during move-in and move-out.
Personalizing Your Apartment Without the Damage
Decorating a rental apartment can be challenging, but with a little creativity and the right renter-friendly options, you can transform your space into a home that reflects your personality. By using adhesive hooks and floating shelves to arrange your pictures, adding peel-safe laminate and DIY kitchen decor, and protecting your floors with furniture pads and rugs, you can create a stylish and personalized space without causing any damage. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your dream
apartment near University of Georgia that you can easily change up and leave scuff-free when it's time to move out.