9 Tips For Improving ‘Unattractive’ Apartments On A Budget

By Staff Writer

9 Hacks For Transforming ‘Ugly’ Apartments On A Budget

1. The Power of Paint

Painting your apartment is one of the quickest and easiest ways to personalize your space and transform it from drab to fab! A fresh coat of paint can really make all the difference in a room. Not only does it dramatically change the appearance, but it also covers any scruffs, scrapes, or stains on the wall.

Whether you choose calming pastels, warm earth tones, or bold and bright colors depends entirely on your personal taste and style. Perhaps best of all, painting is a relatively low-cost project, especially when compared to other home improvement tasks.

Just remember, if your apartment is a rental, you’ll need to get permission from your landlord before you start painting. Most landlords are accommodating, especially if you agree to repaint the walls back to their original color before you move.

One great strategy you could use is painting an accent wall in your living room. By using a bold color only on one wall, you can instantly elevate the whole feel of the space.

Pick a wall that naturally draws the eye when you enter the room.
Consider matching the color of the accent wall with some small decorations around the room for cohesiveness.
If you’re feeling brave, opt for a dark, bold color – these can make the space appear larger and more sophisticated.
Remember to mask off the edges of your wall with painter’s tape for neat and clean lines.
Invest in quality paints and brushes – they last longer and create better results.
Finally, don’t rush. Allow enough time for the paint to dry properly between coats.

2. Creative Lighting

Inadequate or harsh lighting can make even the most beautiful apartments look ‘ugly’. On the flip side, creative and strategically placed lighting can completely change the vibe of your space. It can make a room appear brighter, more spacious, and even add a stylish touch.

The best part? There are endless budget-friendly options available when it comes to lighting. Floor lamps, table lamps, fairy lights, LED strips – there’s something for every style and need!

Particularly if your apartment lacks natural light, investing in additional lighting is crucial. Plus, remember that different rooms require different types of light. For example, you’ll want soft, warm light in your bedroom and stronger, white light in your home office or kitchen area.

A potential idea to spruce up your bedroom could be using string lights around your headboard. This creates a cozy and romantic atmosphere with minimal effort and cost.

Select the kind of lights which reflect your style.
If possible, consider matching the color and material of your lamps to other details in your room.
Play around with the location until you find what suits best.
Avoid harsh, direct light sources as they might create uncomfortable glares.
Use dimmers for adjustable brightness based on time of day and mood.
Remember, multiple light sources in a room create a more layered and inviting ambiance!

3. Thrifty Finds

Who says you need to shell out big bucks to furnish and decorate your apartment?! From thrift stores to flea markets to online marketplaces like Craigslist or eBay – you’d be surprised at the treasures you can find.

One person’s trash can truly be another person’s treasure. And with a little creativity and elbow grease, old and dated furniture pieces can be turned into chic and stylish decor. Plus, shopping secondhand is not only friendly on your wallet, but it’s also good for the environment.

Keep in mind, however, that when shopping secondhand, patience and persistence are key. You might not always find a treasure on your first trip to the thrift store. But keep going back regularly, and sooner or later, you will score some great finds!

Here’s a thought! How about turning an old ladder into a trendy bookshelf? It’s as simple as securing it against a wall and adding some planks between the rungs. Voila, you have a rustic, stylish bookshelf with character!

Inspect items carefully before purchasing – check for signs of wear and tear, scratches, etc.
Look beyond the current condition – imagine what it could look like with a bit of TLC.
Don’t overlook small knick-knacks which can add personality to your space.
Negotiating is usually accepted (and expected), so don’t hesitate to haggle a bit.
If buying online, ensure you’re safe by meeting in public places and taking someone with you if necessary.
Have measurements at hand so you know the item will fit in your space.

4. Install Shelves

Never underestimate the power of shelving. Shelves can be a practical, yet stylish way to organize and display your items. And best of all, they don’t require much floor space, which makes them an excellent choice for smaller apartments.

Shelves come in diverse sizes, styles, and materials, so you have numerous options depending on your needs and preferences. Plus, installing shelves can often be a DIY project, potentially saving you even more money.

Remember though, a cluttered shelf can end up looking messy instead of stylish. Therefore, consider what you want to display on your shelves carefully and try to maintain a sense of balance and unity.

Bring in an old wooden crate, secure it on your kitchen wall horizontally. You can, then, use it for storing spices, utensils or even small potted plants. It’s an economical yet chic hack.

Measure your space before installing – too big might overpower the room, and too small could look awkward.
If DIYing, make sure you have the right tools and materials.
Mix objects of different sizes and shapes for an aesthetically pleasing look.
Don’t overload your shelves – keep it minimalistic and neat.
Your shelves don’t necessarily need to match; mixing materials can create a unique feel.
Personalize with accessories like photos, artwork, or travel souvenirs.

5. Peel and Stick Wallpaper

If painting your walls is not an option, peel and stick wallpapers offer an easy and affordable alternative to add interest to your space. They come in a variety of patterns, colors, and styles, which means there’s something for everyone.

Since they’re removable and damage-free, they are also great for renters who want to personalize their space without doing anything permanent. Plus, if you ever grow tired of your wallpaper, you can easily swap it out for another!

However, do keep in mind that while applying peel and stick wallpaper is relatively straightforward, it requires patience and precision. If not applied properly, it can result in bubbles or creases.

Consider papering a small powder room with a bright, bold pattern. Not only will this technique transform the tiny space, but it will also become a conversation starter when guests visit.

Always start from one corner and slowly work your way across the wall to avoid mistakes.
Use a soft cloth to smooth out the wallpaper and eliminate any air bubbles.
Spend a bit extra on high-quality paper to truly get that “wow” factor.
Don’t be afraid to go bold – remember, it’s just wallpaper and can be easily removed!
Clean the wall thoroughly before application for a smooth, dust-free surface.
Ensure that your wallpaper is straight by using a level or straightedge.

6. Adding Plants

Incorporating plants into your apartment décor can do wonders for an ‘ugly’ apartment. Not only do they add bursts of color and life to a room, but they also improve air quality and create a calming, natural atmosphere.

From small succulents on windowsills or desks to larger potted plants in corners – there are so many ways you can spruce up your space with greenery. Plus, you don’t need to break the bank to do this – many affordable plants are perfect for beginners.

Bear in mind the light requirements and maintenance levels of different plants when choosing which ones to bring into your home. Some thrive in low-light conditions, while others need plenty of sunlight.

You could try hanging small pots of English ivy from your ceiling at varying lengths near your window. When they grow, they’ll form a lovely green curtain creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Pick plants according to the light and temperature conditions of your apartment.
If you’re new to plant parenting, start with low-maintenance plants like succulents or snake plants.
Get creative with containers – you can use mugs, cans, jars, etc.
Don’t forget to water as needed – too much or too little water can harm most plants.
Consider incorporating edible plants like herbs – they’re useful in the kitchen and look lovely.
Plants purify air – certain species are particularly good at this, like the spider plant or peace lily.

7. Stylish Storage Solutions

Finding stylish storage solutions is another creative way to transform your ‘ugly’ apartment. With the right approach, you can make your storage do double-duty as both functional and decorative elements in your home.

Whether it’s wicker baskets in the living room, a vintage trunk repurposed as a coffee table, or floating shelves in your kitchen – with some creativity, storage can become part of your home decor.

And remember, if your apartment is on the smaller side, optimizing vertical space for storage can free up valuable floor space!

Try using decorative baskets/utility buckets in your bathroom to store toiletries. Not only are they practical for keeping things organized, but they also add character to your bathroom decor.

Select storage elements that match or complement your existing decor.
Optimize hidden areas for storage – under the bed, over the doors, etc.
Use vertical space wherever possible – wall shelving, tall bookcases, etc.
Storage items can be a design feature – select attractive boxes, bins, or baskets.
A well-organized space doesn’t only look better but also makes daily living more pleasant.
Incorporate furniture pieces with built-in storage.

8. DIY Artwork

Artwork isn’t just for high-end homes and galleries. Even on a budget, including artwork can help to brighten up your apartment and express your personality and style.

What’s even better is that you don’t necessarily need to invest in pricey art pieces. From printing out your favorite photos to creating your own abstract paint piece to framing pretty fabric samples – there are plenty of DIY options to consider.

Moreover, remember that how you display your artwork matters as much as the pieces themselves. Experiment with different arrangements and heights for the most striking effect.

You could create an abstract painting on a canvas using acrylics. You don’t need to be an artist – just let your creativity flow. Once dry, frame it and hang it over your couch or dining table for a bold statement piece.

Your DIY artwork does not have to be perfect – in fact, imperfect can be more charming!
Mix sizes, shapes, and frames for a compelling gallery wall.
If hanging artwork, keep at eye level for the best viewing experience.
Frame anything you find beautiful – postcards, fabric scraps, book pages, etc.
Thrift stores often have cheap frames to use for your DIY projects.
Swap out artwork from time to time to refresh your space and keep it dynamic.

9. Window Treatments

Last but not least, never underestimate the visual impact of window treatments. They not only provide privacy but also add a layer of comfort and style to any room. Whether you prefer curtains, blinds, or shades depends on your personal style and practical needs.

While custom-made window treatments might be pricey, there are plenty of budget-friendly ready-made options available. Moreover, with the rise of online shopping, you can even score some fantastic deals if you know where to look.

Just remember to accurately measure your windows before you go shopping. A curtain that’s too short or too long can negatively impact the look and feel of the entire room.

Put up sheer white curtains in your living room. They work wonderfully to diffuse natural light during the day while providing a comforting sense of privacy.

Measure twice, buy once – ensure your curtains will fit your windows perfectly.
Opt for neutral, classic window treatments that will match any decor changes over time.
When in doubt, go for long curtains – they make the room look taller and more sophisticated.
Invest in a good quality curtain rod – it should be sturdy and complement your curtain style.
If possible, hang your curtains as high as possible to create the illusion of a taller ceiling.
Consider the washing instructions when purchasing – machine washable might be easier in the long run.

WillowLiteral 2021-09-24: Summary Table:

| Topic | Brief tips |
| —– | ———- |
| **The Power of Paint** | Use color strategically, invest in quality paints, allow paint to dry between coats |
| **Creative Lighting** | Match lamp-style with room, adjust brightness for time of day & mood, use multiple sources for more layered lighting |
| **Thrifty Finds** | Check items before purchase, visualize potential of used items, negotiate the price, be keen on safety if buying online |
| **Install Shelves** | Keep size proportional to space, maintain balance & unity in shelf display, personalize with accessories |
| **Peel and Stick Wallpaper** | Start from one corner, use a soft cloth to smooth the surface, clean wall before application |
| **Adding Plants** | Match plant selection to light and temperature conditions, be creative with containers, ensure proper watering |
| **Stylish Storage Solutions** | Match storage solutions with existing decor, use vertical space, incorporate furniture pieces with built-in storage |
| **DIY Artwork** | Embrace imperfections in DIY artwork, keep hung artwork at eye level, change out artwork periodically |
| **Window Treatments** | Measure accurately, opt for universal window treatment styles, consider curtain length and washing instructions |

Turn an ‘ugly’ apartment into a place you are proud to call home with these nine budget-friendly hacks. The potential is limitless if you’re willing to think outside the box and put in a little work. Remember, creating a beautiful space isn’t about how much money you spend, but rather about how you use the resources you have available! Look for opportunities to express your personal style, incorporate items that speak to you, and above all, create a space that feels like home.