When it comes to apartments you may be limited in what you can do with regard to decorating. This is especially the case if the apartment is rented, and the guidelines may be even stricter if it is a furnished rented apartment.
Some landlords or letting agents will let you decorate a furnished apartment while others have very strict rules on what a tenant can and can't do.
If you want to put your own stamp on an apartment and are not sure about what the lease allows then start by putting up some posters. Another thing that you can do is to get some throws and cushions for the furniture that will brighten the place up.
Place books on a window ledge if there are no shelves or no space for any. Alternatively put up a makeshift bookshelf with a couple of bricks and planks of wood - not ideal maybe but better than nothing and books are a way of expressing who you are. Another thing you can do in this situation is to get yourself some potted plants, providing you look after them and don't over water they really will brighten up your apartment.
If the owner of the apartment gives their permission for you to wallpaper or paint the place then that is a different story. This means than you can put more of a personal stamp on the place with your choice of color and materials. Get a neutral color for at least three of the walls, cream and magnolia are a good background for the rest of your belongings. You could either paper the fourth wall or cover it in pictures and posters - whatever suits you the best.
Some apartments don't have separate bedrooms. If that is what your apartment is like then try using a room divider. You can make one from a hardboard, a few planks of wood and some castors. It is a good idea to close off your sleeping quarters as this gives you a place to retire to where other people are not allowed - unless you personally invite them that is. If you have a window in this area of the apartment then get some blinds or drapes that will tone in with your bedding. Buy some bright cushions and put those on the bed. Make this space as calm as possible and you should get a good night's rest.
Keep the kitchen space clean and tidy. If it is visible from the living area then your best bet is to clear up as you go. Have as much storage as possible in the kitchen. Keep the colors neutral and add some bright blinds and kitchen towels.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Replace existing window
By: Davy | 20-07-2008
Hello, I am replacing a 6x3 foot garden level window. The outside wall is brick with wood above the window to the next level. The window was framed and installed before the brick and brick was layed right up the the opening. I have removed the frame and if the flange is nailed to the header I hope I can rip that out. My question is how should I attach the replacement window, ie ... attach thin strip of wood to brick, anchor window to that strip and trim 2x4 to flush with existing 2x4 wall?? Appreciate help on this one! Thanks. Davy
Dishwasher is in a second home and used only a few ...
By: Bill B | 20-07-2008
dishwasher is in a second home and used only a few times a year. It hasn't been run in 6 months and will not fill with water. Should I change the water inlet valve to fix the problem. Could it be frozen?
The water that normally comes out of the tubing ...
By: Donna K | 20-07-2008
The water that normally comes out of the tubing from the air conditioner into the sink, is now leaking from around the seams of the furnace and onto the floor. What can the problem be?
Is flashing always used on the gable edge of a ...
By: billdm | 20-07-2008
Is flashing always used on the gable edge of a roof to seal it or protect it from leaking?
Air conditoner
By: marguerite | 20-07-2008
The central air unit is working but the air conditioner unit outside is not coming on (fan) What could be the problem? We check the circuit breaker and it is fine.
New fountain
By: fountain | 20-07-2008
Im trying to install a a six foot fountain the old style with a (cantera) at the bottom im looking for a box to put in the pump. Not sure to put it inside the cantera or out side
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Home Improvement Articles
Tips For The Right Window Drapes
By: Chris Jensen | 24/07/2008
Window drapes are called by many names and are one the items in a living space that are stylish yet functional. So, how can window drapes add that extra tough to your home?
Using Silk Drapes to Decorate Your Room
By: Chris Jensen | 24/07/2008
Hanging silk drapes in your home can give a classy and regal look to the rooms.
The Guide to Deep Carpet Cleaning
By: Seomul Evans | 24/07/2008
Maintenance of a carpet takes time and loads of effort and is not so easy to keep your carpet in the same tip-top condition. A majority of the people uses the vacuum cleaner for the cleaning carpets however this is not sufficient enough as carpets need deep cleaning. People are...
How to Effectively Deep Clean Carpets
By: Seomul Evans | 24/07/2008
To buy a carpet may be easy but the real job begins when we need to maintain it, which in a way is quite though. Loads of Time and efforts are necessary to maintain the good condition of the carpet. Over time, carpets collect dust as also germs and so...
Everything About Effectively Cleaning Air Ducts
By: Seomul Evans | 24/07/2008
Is the air in your residence dirt free? at what time we are at home a majority of the people are hesitant on the subject of how dirt free the air inside their house is. The air has many contaminants that we breathe and that are a fact. The air...
Water Removal After a Home Flood
By: Abe S. | 24/07/2008
Having a home flood is never a fun experience, especially if the flood damage is extensive. A flood in the basement or first level of your home can be devastating to your life - it can cause cracks in the foundation of your home, cause mold to form, and...
Benefits of Professional Carpet Cleaning
By: Abe S. | 24/07/2008
Keeping your home clean and well maintained is essential in feeling good about yourself, your life, and where you live. Remember, your home is an extension of yourself, and keeping every part of it clean and attractive is essential, even down to the carpets. While it is possible to keep...
An Introduction to Portable Table Saws
By: JT Miller | 24/07/2008
Bench top table saws are portable saws which are ideal for beginner woodworkers but still have some drawbacks.