Top 10 DIY Hacks to Instantly Upgrade Your Apartment Décor

Making an apartment feel like home is all about adding a touch of your personality while keeping things affordable and rental-friendly. These 10 DIY hacks will help you instantly upgrade your apartment décor without requiring major renovations. Get ready to transform your space with creativity and style!

1. Add a Gallery Wall

Why it Works: A gallery wall can make any blank wall a focal point of your space.

How to Do It: Gather frames of various sizes and shapes from thrift stores or discount shops. Use photos, artwork, or even decorative papers to fill the frames. Layout your frames on the floor first to find the best arrangement, then use removable adhesive hooks or strips to hang them without damaging your walls.

2. Create Open Shelving with Floating Shelves

Why it Works: Floating shelves are functional and add a sleek, modern look.

How to Do It: Pick up some affordable floating shelves and place them in your kitchen, living room, or bedroom. Use them to display your favorite books, plants, or small decorative pieces. For a streamlined look, stick to a color scheme with your displayed items.

3. Refresh with Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper or Backsplash

Why it Works: Peel-and-stick wallpaper or backsplash can completely change the vibe of a room.

How to Do It: Choose a design that matches your style, whether it’s bold or subtle. Apply it to one wall as an accent or use it in smaller areas like the kitchen backsplash or a bathroom. It’s easy to install, renter-friendly, and just as simple to remove.

4. Upgrade Lighting Fixtures

Why it Works: Lighting can set the mood and elevate any room.

How to Do It: Replace standard ceiling lights with a stylish pendant light or add a few trendy floor lamps. Alternatively, swap out the bulbs for softer, warmer lighting to create a cozy atmosphere.

5. Install Removable Hooks and Racks for Extra Storage

Why it Works: Extra storage can reduce clutter, making your space feel larger and more organized.

How to Do It: Removable hooks and racks can be placed on doors, walls, or cabinets. Use them for coats, bags, jewelry, or even kitchen tools. They’re easily removable, so you won’t leave any marks behind.

6. Upgrade Cabinet Hardware

Why it Works: New handles and knobs can completely transform cabinets and drawers.

How to Do It: Buy some affordable, stylish hardware at a home improvement store or online. Replace the old knobs and handles on cabinets or drawers to give your kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom a fresh look. Just make sure to keep the original hardware to reinstall when you move out.

7. Create a Custom Headboard

Why it Works: A headboard can add structure and style to your bedroom.

How to Do It: There are many DIY options for headboards, from using fabric and foam to wooden planks. You can also create a headboard look by hanging a large piece of fabric or tapestry behind your bed for a soft, relaxed feel.

8. Use Area Rugs to Define Spaces

Why it Works: Area rugs add warmth, color, and can visually separate different areas.

How to Do It: Choose rugs that fit the scale and style of each area. A large, neutral rug under your couch can define your living room, while a smaller, patterned rug can add charm to your bedroom or entryway.

9. Bring in Plants for a Natural Touch

Why it Works: Plants add life, color, and freshen up the air.

How to Do It: Place plants in stylish planters and spread them throughout your apartment. If natural light is limited, go for low-light plants like snake plants or ZZ plants. Or, opt for realistic faux plants for a low-maintenance option.

10. Frame Mirrors for a Brighter, Bigger Look

Why it Works: Mirrors reflect light, making spaces feel larger and brighter.

How to Do It: Look for decorative mirrors or frame your own with an affordable mirror and some DIY framing supplies. Place mirrors near light sources or across from windows to maximize the effect.

Decorating an apartment doesn’t have to mean expensive renovations or permanent changes. With a few clever DIY upgrades, you can transform your space into one that feels comfortable, stylish, and entirely your own. So gather your materials, bring your creativity, and enjoy the process of making your apartment truly feel like home. Happy decorating!