As a stylist AND small apartment renter, I'm beyond aware of the struggle-street dilemmas we "temp-homers" are faced with when it comes to decorating a studio apartment. Small "quirky" layout tick. Zilch storage tick. Grim fixtures and fittings tick. Not forgetting the Scary Mary tenancy agreement that makes installing anything perm on walls a thing of ultimate SIN!
My job is styling interiors — and it always has been — so whether I'm writing about the latest trends, scouting out "must-have" shopping picks to share with y'all, or bringing a vision to life on a photo set or in a WOW location house, I'm daydreaming (literally) in an ever-evolving home goals mirage. Which can be a tad bittersweet, as in reality, I live in the prementioned lil' budget apartment (or the "Bijou Burrow" as I affectionately call it.)
However, house envy and green-eyed jel vibes are not a good look for any of us. So instead of longing for the forever home that I haven't got just yet — I'm embracing the present and getting even more creative with how I can glow up my temp nook, into a cozy nest bursting with home comforts and personality.
Yes, the office carpets, dated kitchen tiles, and hideous faux-wood cabinets are still there, but with a few styling hacks and savvy affordable buys, I've distracted from the bad, and highlighted the good! Honestly, it's unrecognizable — just ask the listing agent...
Home decor buys to glow up your rental
I've reimagined my eyesore, cheap wooden doors with a hit of pattern and color (and I'm still clinging on to that deposit!)
Total game changer in a tiny bathroom with NO storage! I've shelfied mine up a treat into a "Mermaid's spa" display with gorgeous vanity picks and jewelry.
Narrow hallway with a totally unmagical carpet? hide it pronto and roll out the playful geo patterns and texture...
I've gone for a budget chaise sofa to squeeze into my unique lounge layout, but have pimped it up to a snuggle of "faux luxe" with playful throw pillows and tactile throws.
My place is narrow (hence the "Burrow" in the pet name), so I'm bouncing light all over the joint with shapely mirrors that open-up the space.
Layer-up on texture with a semi-sheer drape that diffuses soft, ambient light through your space. Instant warmth and interest right there.
Animal luverrr but your rental lease won't allow pets? Add to the indoor jungle family vibe with playful planters full of fun factor! (Any excuse to add more plant bubbas amirite?!)
Make a statement overhead with woven natural materials in shapely forms.
