Let renter-friendly wall decor brighten up that stale, eggshell paint color—without damaging the facade of your studio apartment.
Part of being a good tenant is understanding the terms of your lease, and more often than not, there's a heavy emphasis on the walls — no nails, no dark colors, etc. (Should you get the green light to go Van Gogh, check out our renter-friendly paint tips.)
Fortunately, small (and lightweight!) pieces can make a big impact with minimal effort. If you're afraid that your walls will look like Swiss cheese by the time move-out comes around, opt for some of these delightful selections including tapestries, planters, and the ever-reliable peel-and-stick wallpaper (it's a fan-favorite for a reason, friends).
When you're ready for a head-to-toe makeover, have a look at our go-to apartment decorating and design ideas that will truly make your space pop.
Our favorite renter-friendly wall decor picks
Price: $32.40 and up
For a bold statement, this glam art deco wallpaper adds a chic element to any space. Available in five sizes and four materials—vinyl, canvas, fabric, and trad pre-pasted—it's customizable for any home.
Price: $35
'70s-style home decor is having a moment, so might as well celebrate its resurgence with this 18" x 30" hand-woven gem. Plus, the colors will undoubtedly brighten up even the dullest of walls.
Price: $59-$149
Make sure your RayBans are handy — you'll need 'em with this sweet and sunny design. Even better? When you're ready to leave your place, it comes off in a jiffy. Sizes include 48"L x 24"W, 96"L x 24"W and 120"L x 24"W.
Price: $59
Gardening in an apartment? Keep the botanical theme going with this fabulous floral find. The boho tapestry measures 70"L x 70"W and comes in two shades: multi (above) or black.
Price: $23.99
Ideal for a small bushel of dried lavender or bunny tails, these wooden planters will put your go-to florals on prominent display. Position them alongside a mirror or artwork and voila — you have a masterpiece!
Price: $16.99
We love a bunch of eucalyptus in the shower, but this faux garland of our go-to greenery is the perfect addition to any boho space. It measures 36"L x 36"W and is begging for some real estate above your headboard.
Price: $179.99
There are plenty of positives when it comes to full-length mirrors — they make your space appear larger and look best by simply leaning against the wall. This 63"L x 24"W Jonathan Adler mirror dupe brings all the playful vibes.
Price: $30.99
Keep photos, lightweight shelves, and more trinkets fastened to this 26"L x 18"W wire grid. It's available in rose gold, dark gold, black and white. Might we suggest adding it to your home office area?
Price: $12.99
Bring your Insta grid to life with this beloved staple across college campuses. It's the perfect decor transition from dorm rooms to first apartments. You can hang up to 30 photographs on this 30" x 30" number.
If in time you're looking to make a few more permanent adjustments to your space, we spoke to Keyanna Bowen, designer and the founder of East + Lane, about approaching rental renovations with your landlord. Though the idea of a rental might seem temporary, it's in everyone's best interest to give the space some love.
"I think a lot of landlords are now seeing that trend that more and more of their tenants are coming to them and wanting to make updates, and it’s such a win-win situation," she says. "You’re adding value to the property."
When you're ready to tackle a DIY or want to give a new aesthetic a go, read her tips for making all of your changes happen.
