As someone who has rented apartments for the last 5 years, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to feel like you're stuck with a less-than-ideal living space. But fear not, because there are plenty of ways to spruce up your apartment without breaking the bank. Here are some decorating on a budget ideas that will help give your apartment a fresh look and feel!

• Clean Everything

Take a step back, view your apartment from every angle possible and be ready to begin your makeover with a clean slate. Wipe the counters, dust the shelves, vaccum and wipe down every surface possible. Lucky for you, Walnut Capital ensures that we do all of this before a new resident moves in, but if you're not living at one of our properties, you may not always have that luxury. Once you go through and clean what you can, you'll be surprised at how much better it looks and it will allow your mind to flow with creativity for the space. 

• Add Some Greenery and Plants

Plants are inexpensive enough that they can add that pop of color you're missing. Plus, they help purify the air! If you don't have a green thumb, some of our props, like Hot Metal Flats, hand out fake plants. You could also grab some low-maintenance ones like succulents or snake plants.

• Get Creative With Lighting

Lighting can set the mood of almost any room. Don't go out and buy your typical, harsh, cool light bulbs. Instead, add some warmth and ambience to your space with table lamps, string lights, and even a candle or two (but make them fake because most apartments don't allow you to burn real ones).

• Repurpose and Reuse

Don't be afraid to get creative and maybe a little vintage with your decor. Repurpose the items you already have and stop by a thrift store to find some unique pieces. You can use unusual items as side tables or for display like old books or a suitcase for drinks to sit on.

• Invest in Textiles

You'd be surprised at how a polka dot throw, floral pillows, and green curtains (maybe not together) can refresh a room. But of course look for textiles that compliment the room and a color scheme you'd like to go for. From there you'll notice your space is coming together and feels more like you.

• Make Your Walls an Art Gallery

I don't mean this literally, but I mean, you could. Don't underestimate the power of art and how it can transform a room. Whether it's photographs of your family and friends or a painting you found in a gallery back in your hometown, art is an easy and inexpensive way to add personality to your apartment.

• Use Mirrors

Mirrors are a great way to create the illusion that your space is bigger and brighter than what it is. They reflect light and help your space look and feel more open. Plus, there are so many cool designs and sizes of mirorrs, so don't be afraid to find something that speaks to you and your space.

• DIY Your Items

There are endless guides and articles on how to DIY your items and furniture in your apartment. Get unique and be creative with your pieces! And maybe watch a few YouTube videos before you get too far into a project. 

In the end, decorating your apartment on a budget is all about being creative and resourceful. With the tips above, you can transform your space into something pretty special.

Our Walnut Capital properties give you the opportuntiy to make your apartment your own and we encourage you to share your space on socials so we can see too! Happy decorating!