5 Ways to Transform Your Home- Even if you Rent.
1. TAKE DOWN THE VERTICAL BLINDS
I think there must be a landlord school somewhere and on the first day, they teach them where to buy vertical blinds, because I do not know a single other application where verticals as they are lovingly referred, are so common.
What to put in their place? I think that matchstick shades are a great economical alternative, whether you are doing rustic or modern. They are available from a huge number of resources at all price points. If you are looking for more decoration, some fabric hung by the window as panels can give you a softer look without springing for full-on drapery. Look for interesting pieces, one of my favorites is to use antique sari’s.
2. GO WITH A COLLECTION
When you are renting, versatility is key, so buying large pieces of art may work in one place but be totally wrong in the next. That’s why I like collections, as I can edit, switch around and rearrange to my heart’s content as I go from one place to another. Try collections of vintage postcards, cool plates or even kids' drawings, anything hung in a group can look great.
3. PAY ATTENTION TO THE FLOOR
If you are lucky you may have a wood floor or even polished concrete, but if you have carpet this will still apply to you. Adding a rug will give your space a much more custom feel. If you have carpet already, go with a hide or a low pile rug and if you have a hard surface something plusher will work well, just don’t forget the pad or else you are creating a huge slip hazard.
4. DON’T MAKE EVERYTHING MATCH
I know the impulse, you have just moved into your new place and you want it DONE, NOW! Please try and resist that impulse. Buying all your furniture in the same suite or even from the same store will create uniformity for sure but you will end up with a stale, uninspired look. So try playing a little with style, a rustic table with modern chairs, or a contemporary headboard with industrial style lighting. Try the Nousdecor quiz to see what your favorite styles are.
5. BUY GOOD BEDDING
Nothing says “home” like the feeling of good quality bedding. Take a look at our masterclass on sheets to learn a few tips before you head out. Remember quality is not always tied directly to price, so this is one place where being a savvy consumer can get you a great quality product without blowing the bank.