This is a guest post by Natalie Jones from Homeownerbliss.
It may seem daunting, but there are many simple ways to transform your rented apartment or home into the relaxing space you need without breaking the bank or spending too much time on it. Below are eight easy steps to redecorate your home that will get you started on the right path to creating your dream living space.
1. Clean Out the Clutter
The first step to creating a more comfortable space is to get rid of things you don’t need. Take some time to go through your belongings to declutter and donate, sell or throw away anything you no longer use.
2. Revamp Your Walls with Paint or Wallpaper
Changing your apartment or home’s color scheme is one of the easiest ways to brighten and enliven a space. Think about how new paint can instantly change an entire room. A neutral color in your living room will allow you to incorporate throw pillows and other decorative items into your design as a focal point.
Also consider peel and stick wallpaper options which are removable and won’t leave residue on your walls. You can choose unique designs from artists all over the world and even upload your own designs and have them printed on demand.
3. Choose the Right Accessories
It’s easy to think of accessories as an afterthought, but one nice-looking lamp or a framed photo can transform a room. Do you prefer a more rustic look? Or something more modern? Once you have an idea of what you like, find pieces that fit well with your decorating style.
4. Add Warm Lighting
Lighting is a great way to add an inviting ambiance to any space. If you’re in a rented apartment, adding sconces or switching out your light bulbs for something more moody will change how you feel about your living space.
5. Bring in Plants and Flowers
The smell of fresh flowers is a classic way to relax — and being around plants and flowers lowers stress levels and reduces anxiety. Start small with something like a potted plant or a cactus — you can even add some beauty to your deskwith an orchid.
6. Collect Inspiration From Pinterest and Design Blogs
Whether you’re just making small changes or completely redoing your space, getting inspired by others and seeing what’s in style right now will help. Pinterest and design blogs are great resources for discovering new ideas. Also, when it comes time to hire professionals like interior designers, they’ll be able to make better recommendations based on your likes and dislikes.
7. Create an Office Space
Creating a dedicated office space, even if it’s just a corner of a room, is essential to stay productive. This way you can separate work from play and limit stress and distractions when you’re working on projects.
8. Find Somewhere New
When decorating a rented apartment or home, you often don’t have much choice. If your design options are limited in your current space, consider moving to a better place. Find properties in your budget with your desired style. And if you’re buying a new home, be sure to research the housing market in your chosen area.
Create a New Feeling
If you can make some simple changes to your living space, such as painting, adding wallpaper, designing a home office, or moving furniture around, it may be enough to create an entirely new feeling in your home. However, if you can’t achieve what you desire it might be time to move somewhere new.
Natalie writes about homeownership and making your house into a home on homeownerbliss.