Rule #1: Check With Your Landlord

Before you start any renovations, make sure your landlord approves of the project. If you make unauthorized changes to your space, he or she could charge you a fine. You can also look through your lease to find any renovations that are allowed and may not require approval. Some of the most common upgrades that you can make to an apartment include replacing drapes and replacing shades on overhead lamps. These simple changes can make the apartment feel completely different.

Rule #2: Renovate the Kitchen

One of the top complaints about apartment tenants is an outdated kitchen. Since most landlords don’t want to spend a lot of money on kitchen renovations, this can be an area in many apartments that are less than desirable. You can make some easy changes by replacing the knobs or repainting the cupboards (although this does need landlord approval). If the cupboards have stains, cover them with printed contact paper that reflects your style. You can also add adhesive hooks to the insides of cabinets to add more storage space or add a removable shelving unit for food storage.

Rule #3: Update the Bathroom

Many apartment renters also want to improve the look and feel of the bathroom. Even replacing the showerhead or knobs on the sink can make an outdated room look shiny and new. New toilet seats can also improve the look, and you don’t usually need to ask the landlord before you complete this project. If you need more space to store towels, toiletries, and other necessities, you might want to add a shelving unit that can sit above the toilet without taking up too much space. A medicine cabinet can also add a room to store medications and first-aid products.

Rule #4: Upgrade Your Flooring

This is something that will require landlord approval, but many will not object since the new flooring can increase the value of the space. If you absolutely hate the carpet or floors in your apartment, and you have a little extra money to put into a renovation project, you may want to consider replacement. In some cases, a landlord will reimburse you for the work you put in and the expenses incurred during the project. New flooring can make an older apartment feel brand new, so it is definitely worth consideration.

Rule #5: Design the Living Space

One of the biggest reasons that an apartment might feel cramped is a poor design of the furniture in the space. If you feel like your home is getting too small for your possessions, it is worth taking some time to move some things around and improve the flow of traffic. If your bedroom is small, consider putting in a queen bed instead of taking up a lot of space with a king. You might also be able to get rid of some pieces and replace them with space-saving alternatives.

Rule #6: Use Every Room

If you have a dining room that you never eat in, consider repurposing it into an office or sitting room. A spacious master bedroom might seem like a must-have, but when you are entertaining guests and you don’t have enough space, it may not be as beneficial. When you are planning the layout of your space, you may want to consider how each room will be used before putting in the furniture.

Rule #7: Change the Lighting

Apartments that feel dimly lit might seem smaller than those with a lot of natural light. If lots of natural light isn’t an option for you, add more lamps and overhead lighting to brighten up space and help it to feel more spacious and comfortable.

Apartment living doesn’t have to be problematic. By making a few simple changes, you can transform the space into the ideal area for you to enjoy your home.

Whether you live in a tiny studio apartment in New York City or a spacious apartment in Milwaukee, there are some simple steps you can take to renovate your space and make it your own. Make sure to consider some rules before you start any projects.