Renter-Friendly Design Ideas

Decorating a rental space can feel like a balancing act. You want to express your personal style and make your space feel like home—but you’re also working within the limits of a lease–and oftentimes a budget as well. The good news? There are more renter-friendly design ideas than ever, thanks to innovative products and clever tricks that let you transform your space without risking your security deposit.

At HOM Furniture, we believe that everyone deserves a space that feels like home—whether you rent or own. These high-impact, budget-friendly renter-friendly design hacks will help you make your space cozy, stylish, and completely “you,” all without leaving a trace when it’s time to move.

1. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: Easy On, Easy Off

One of the quickest ways to transform a room is with wallpaper—but traditional styles can be hard to remove (and often off-limits in a lease). Enter peel-and-stick wallpaper. Available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, this renter-friendly option is easy to apply and even easier to remove. Use it to create a bold accent wall, line the back of a bookshelf, or add interest to a hallway or entryway.

Tip: For a modern, cohesive look, try a geometric print or a subtle faux-texture wallpaper in a neutral palette.

2. Switch Up Your Lighting

Most rental units come with basic overhead lighting—but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with it. Swapping in stylish plug-in lighting is one of the easiest renter-friendly design hacks that delivers instant atmosphere. Think floor lamps, table lamps, pendant lights with cord kits, and even plug-in sconces.

Layer your lighting to create warmth and dimension in any room. Combine task lighting with soft accent lighting to make your space feel more inviting and personalized.

HOM Pick: Our collection of traditional style and modern style lamps adds a polished touch to bedrooms, living rooms, and entryways.

3. Create a Gallery Wall (Without the Nails)

You don’t need a hammer and nails to create a gallery wall that wows. Use removable adhesive hooks or picture hanging strips to display framed art, mirrors, or floating shelves. It’s a great way to add personality and color to your space—plus, it gives you the flexibility to change things up as your style evolves.

Looking for ideas? Mix and match prints, family photos, or artwork in different sizes for an eclectic vibe, or go symmetrical with matching frames for a more curated feel.

Pro Tip: HOM’s wall art selection includes large-scale prints and canvas art perfect for renters looking to make a statement. You can also choose a set of prints for an easy and cohesive look.

4. Add Warmth with an Electric Fireplace

Yes, you can enjoy the charm of a fireplace—even in a rental. Electric fireplaces are one of our favorite renter-friendly design ideas because they offer the ambiance and warmth of a real fire without the need for vents or renovation. They simply plug into a standard outlet and can be moved when you relocate.

Whether you go with a sleek, modern wall-mount or a traditional freestanding piece with a mantel, an electric fireplace becomes a natural focal point in your living space.

Bonus: Many electric fireplaces also include built-in storage or media consoles—perfect for small-space living.

5. Invest in Multi-Functional Furniture

Renters often deal with limited space, so make every piece of furniture count. Look for pieces that offer both form and function: think storage ottomans, sleeper sofas, nesting tables, and coffee tables with lift tops. These smart, space-saving designs allow you to make the most of your square footage without sacrificing style.

HOM Favorites: Sofas and sectionals with storage ottomans, stylish daybeds or sleeper sofas for studio apartments, and media consoles that conceal clutter.

6. Refresh with Rugs

Rental flooring isn’t always a dream—but that’s nothing a great area rug can’t fix. Rugs instantly define a space, hide imperfections, and add softness and color to any room. They’re also an easy way to experiment with new patterns or textures without committing long-term.

Layer rugs for extra dimension, or use a large rug to anchor furniture and make a small space feel bigger. Wondering if you can put area rugs on top of carpet? You can–and should to refresh and conceal worn carpet!

Renter Hack: Use rug grippers or non-slip pads to keep everything in place without damaging the floors underneath.

7. Update Hardware (Then Swap It Back Later)

One of the most underrated renter-friendly design hacks? Changing out cabinet hardware, doorknobs, and even faucet fixtures. It’s amazing how much of a difference these small upgrades can make in your kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom. Just be sure to save the original pieces so you can reinstall them before moving out.

Brushed brass or matte black knobs can instantly modernize a space, while vintage-inspired pulls add charm and character.

8. Green It Up with Plants

Nothing breathes life into a room like a touch of greenery. Whether you have a green thumb or prefer low-maintenance options, plants are one of the most renter-friendly design ideas out there. Use plant stands, hanging planters, or wall-mounted shelves to display your collection in style. HOM Tip: Hang plants from a coat rack for a gorgeous and green display.

If you’re limited on natural light, opt for faux greenery—today’s artificial plants look incredibly real and offer year-round freshness without the upkeep.

Need Ideas? Try snake plants, pothos or ZZ plants for low-light areas.

9. Use Temporary Window Treatments

Say goodbye to boring blinds. With tension rods, clip-on curtain rings, or stick-on shades, it’s easy to swap in curtains or fabric treatments that suit your style. Choose lightweight sheers for a breezy feel or blackout curtains for better sleep and privacy.

Add curtain panels in bold patterns to make windows pop, or keep it neutral to complement your existing color palette.

10. Design for Comfort (and Personality)

At the end of the day, your home should feel like you—even if it’s not permanent. Don’t be afraid to mix in cozy elements that reflect your taste and lifestyle. Layer your bed with plush accent pillows and throw blankets. Add decorative baskets for storage. Display books, candles, or mementos that tell your story.

Comfort and style go hand in hand—and with the right renter-friendly design hacks, you don’t need to compromise on either.

Final Thoughts: Make It Yours—Renter Style

Renter-friendly design ideas are all about creativity, flexibility, and smart updates that make your space feel like home—without crossing any lines with your landlord. From temporary upgrades like peel-and-stick wallpaper to long-lasting pieces like electric fireplaces and multi-functional furniture, HOM Furniture has everything you need to personalize your space in a big way.

Browse our full collection of living room, bedroom, and décor essentials online or visit a HOM store near you to start building a home you’ll love—no matter where you live.