Apartment decorating doesn’t have to mean draining your bank account or living in a Pinterest dreamland you can’t afford. With a little strategy, a dash of creativity, and a clear budget, you can revamp your space into something stylish, functional, and entirely you. Whether you’re renting a studio or sprucing up a one-bedroom, there are endless ways to make your apartment feel like home—without spending more than $100 per update.
From peel-and-stick backsplash to statement rugs and lighting swaps that instantly boost your vibe, this guide is packed with real, affordable ideas that actually work. We’re skipping the fluff and diving into apartment decorating tips you can act on today—featuring products, pro tricks, and clever transformations that will leave your place looking like a million bucks (minus the price tag).
1. Upgrade Your Lighting—Goodbye Overhead Glow
That apartment-standard overhead light? It’s doing nothing for the mood. Swapping it out isn’t always an option, but adding ambient lighting is.
Actionable Tip:
Layered lighting is your best friend. Add:
- A warm-tone floor lamp in the corner for depth.
- LED puck lights under cabinets (great for kitchens!).
- A decorative table lamp to make your nightstand or entryway pop.
Products You Should Try:
Brilliant Evolution LED Puck Lights
(6-pack, battery operated)
Pro move: Use smart bulbs so you can change the mood with one click.
2. Removable Wallpaper = Instant Accent Wall
Yes, peel-and-stick wallpaper exists—and no, it’s not just for dorms. It’s the fastest way to create a feature wall or add texture to a small nook. Best part? You can remove it when your lease is up.
Where to Use It:
- Behind your bed as a faux headboard.
- Entryway wall to create a dramatic welcome.
- Inside bookshelves or kitchen backsplashes.
Products You Should Try:
Tip: All you need is a level, scissors, and a smoothing tool (a credit card works!).
3. Area Rugs That Anchor Your Space
Even a basic apartment feels custom with the right rug. Rugs define space, especially in open-concept layouts or studios.
Look For:
- 5×7 or 6×9 rugs (perfect for under a couch and coffee table).
- Low-pile rugs for high-traffic areas.
- Bold patterns to hide everyday wear.
Products You Should Try:
Pro Tip: Get a washable rug or layer a cheap rug pad underneath for extra plushness.
4. Gallery Wall That Doesn’t Look Dorm-Y
Nothing personalizes a space faster than art. But instead of spending hundreds, build a gallery wall with printable art, thrifted frames, and a little intention.
How-To:
- Use a mix of sizes: 5×7, 8×10, and 11×14.
- Go black and white for a minimal, cohesive look.
- Mix in mirrors or woven elements for texture.
Products You Should Try:
Idea: Print your own photography in black & white—landscapes, city shots, or personal travel moments.
5. Curtains That Touch the Floor (And Your Heart)
Nothing elevates a space like floor-length curtains. Even if your windows are small, long curtains add drama and make ceilings feel higher.
Decor Tip:
- Mount the rod at least 6 inches above the window frame.
- Go for linen-like fabrics or sheer white for that airy, designer look.
- Skip blackout unless you’re using them in the bedroom.
Products You Should Try:
Note: If you can sew (or iron tape), buy longer curtains and hem them for a custom look.
6. Peel-and-Stick Backsplash in the Kitchen
Rent-friendly. Instant upgrade. It’s that simple. These vinyl tiles are perfect for covering up boring backsplash spaces behind the stove or sink.
Where It Shines:
- Kitchens that lack visual texture.
- Behind coffee bars or mini bars.
- Bathrooms that need a little sparkle.
Products You Should Try:
Reminder: Use heat-resistant styles near stoves. And clean the wall first!
7. Plants That Don’t Die (or That You Can’t Kill)
Whether you’ve got a green thumb or not, plants add life—literally. They clean the air, soften harsh corners, and work with any design style.
Plant Game Strategy:
- Mix real and faux. Place faux on high shelves.
- Go for statement floor plants like snake plants or palms.
- Use ceramic or woven planters instead of plastic.
Products You Should Try:
Pro Tip: Rotate your real plants every few weeks for even growth.
8. Small Space Furniture with Personality
Multi-functional and stylish furniture doesn’t have to be expensive. Just choose pieces that do double duty.
Shop Smart:
- An ottoman that stores blankets.
- Nesting tables for flexibility.
- Bar carts that roll where the party goes.
Products You Should Try:
VASAGLE Nesting Tables
(Set of 2)
Style tip: Top your ottoman with a tray and it doubles as a coffee table.
9. Entryway Glow-Up
First impressions matter. Whether you have a full foyer or just a hallway wall, make it work for you.
Design a Mini Entry Nook:
- Add a slim wall-mounted shelf or small console.
- Hang a mirror to bounce light.
- Drop in a catch-all bowl and a plant.
Products You Should Try:
Efficiency tip: Use command hooks for keys or hanging bags by the door.
10. Pops of Personality Through Textiles
Throw pillows, blankets, poufs—textiles are a great way to play with color and texture without commitment.
Rules to Follow:
- Use odd numbers for pillows—3 or 5 looks natural.
- Mix textures: velvet, faux fur, woven knits.
- Stick to a color palette that matches your space.
Products You Should Try:
Pro trick: Switch pillow covers seasonally for a fast, fresh feel.
Bonus: Small Décor That Makes a Big Statement
Have a few bucks left over? These small touches bring it all together:
- A candle that smells like a boutique hotel.
- A sculptural vase with dried florals.
- A funky clock or set of coasters.
Products You Should Try:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Start with small upgrades like lighting, throw pillows, and wall art. These changes are affordable, quick, and make a noticeable impact without requiring permanent changes.
Yes! Use peel-and-stick wallpaper, command strips, and removable hooks. These renter-friendly options let you personalize your space without losing your security deposit.
Layered lighting is key—combine floor lamps, table lamps, and warm LED bulbs. Avoid relying solely on overhead fixtures, which can feel harsh and sterile.
Use light-colored curtains, mirrors, and rugs to create visual space. Strategic lighting and clutter-free furniture arrangements also help open up tight areas.
Add personal touches through art, photos, textiles, and plants. A gallery wall or a styled shelf can instantly make a space feel like home.
Amazon, IKEA, Target, and Etsy offer stylish, low-cost décor items. Look for multipurpose furniture and removable décor elements that offer both style and function.
It depends on your lifestyle. Real plants purify the air and add life, while faux plants are maintenance-free and ideal for dark or hard-to-reach spots. Mixing both can create balance.
Final Thoughts: Small Budget, Big Style
You don’t need designer furniture or a renovation crew to turn your apartment into a place you love coming home to. With under $100, you can pull off a major design win in any room—if you’re smart about where you spend and how you style.
Make the space yours. Shop smart. Decorate with intention. And most importantly—have fun doing it.
Want more apartment-savvy tips and tricks? Bookmark our decorating guides and explore affordable apartment finds that look like a million bucks—without costing it.
Pro tip: Try one room at a time. $100 here, $100 there—and soon, your entire space will feel brand new.
