As of 2019, renters make up roughly 36 percent of all United States households. Renting can be a transition into homeownership without footing the responsibilities of maintenance or a mortgage payment. However, most rented spaces have rules about decorating that can make it difficult to add your personal touch around your home.

Read this guide for tips that will help you bring life to your rented space without breaking the rules.  

Damage-free hanging 

Empty walls can feel cold, and restrictions on drilling holes into walls puts a damper on hanging art or photos. Circumvent this by using these tricks.

Command products by 3M 

Command Strips and hooks have taken the world by storm because you can hang just about any wall decor with an easy application and no-mess removal of their adhesive backings. Additionally, the company released new, stylish chrome hooks and other decorative hanging solutions that will blend seamlessly with your interior. Make sure you choose the appropriate hanging strips for the job based on the weight of the object. If you’re unsure how much it weighs, it’s best to go the next size up.

Mounting putty 

If you enjoy decorating your walls with posters and photos, mounting putty is the best solution. Tape can rip thin paper-like decor upon removal. However, mounting putty is strong and peels away with no residue or rips. Additionally, you can use it on just about any surface, from drywall to brick, because it molds to the surface like a sticky piece of gum.

Elevated surfaces 

Elevated surfaces, such as bookshelves and console tables, make great spots to place picture frames and art. This might seem like a simple solution, but sometimes simple is best. People tend to look at eye-catching furniture before anything else in a room, so use this to your advantage. Place your furniture piece at a central location against the wall, and add objects that attract the eye around it. By doing so, the lack of decoration on the walls won’t be as apparent.

Focus on statement pieces

Color is an integral part of interior design. And since you likely aren’t allowed to paint the walls, add colors in other prominent places.

Table centerpieces 

A table centerpiece can be both decorative and practical. Depending on the season, you can place a vase with real or fake flowers and leaves in the center of your table. Add a tray underneath as a catchall space for your salt and pepper shakers and napkins. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of flowers, you can consider swapping a vase for a glass bowl filled with seasonal items, such as pinecones, ornaments, or seashells, to name a few.

Accent pillows 

Who doesn’t love stylish accent pillows? You can never have enough of them. Like the table centerpiece, you can swap your pillows seasonally. If your furniture is neutral, pick bold colors and patterns, which can help you define the room’s design scheme. A budget-friendly and space-saving tip: purchase a few comfortable pillow inserts and changeable covers.

Houseplants 

Plants are great for your indoor air quality, and they balance the colors of your room. You can use tabletop household plants, such as succulents, or you can choose large plants like ferns to fill an empty corner or create an inviting entryway. Choose plants that make sense with your design and level of commitment to care. Low-light and desert plants are great for first-timers as they don’t need frequent watering.

Rugs

Whether your home has carpeting or hardwood floors, a rug can make a big difference in the aesthetic of a space. It adds comfort, warmth, and a focal point. Places such as an entryway or hallway can benefit from a runner rug, while a living room, bedroom, or dining room is perfect for a large statement area rug. Whichever size you choose, don’t be afraid of a bold pattern or color—especially if you have no other colors or patterns in the room.

Bathroom pieces

Your bathroom is a place you might forget to design. However, you can make your bathroom a comfortable, personalized space for both yourself and your guests—even if you can’t change the paint or layout. Incorporate elements such as an over-the-toilet storage system if you can’t install shelves. Choose a shower curtain in a pattern or color that can brighten the vibe, and incorporate texture by using rattan baskets to store your towels.

Renting a home or apartment doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice quality design. Implement the tips above to create a space you and your guests can enjoy.