How to Decorate an Apartment on a Budget

You might live in an apartment, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look like a palace. In my own quest to decorate my new apartment, I’ve discovered some great apartment accents that look like a million bucks (even though they don’t cost nearly that much). Here’s how to decorate an apartment on a budget.

Swap Out Your Hardware

Your apartment probably came with a bunch of hardware that you didn’t choose. But changing the hardware is an easy way to decorate an apartment without sacrificing your style – or your deposit. Just remember to keep the old hardware in a safe place – don’t throw it away!

homdiy Cabinet Handles Brushed Nickel Drawer Pulls, 15-Pack

Freshen up your cabinets with these homdiy Cabinet Handles Brushed Nickel Drawer Pulls. Their sleek, modern design is an affordable way to give your kitchen an expensive-looking upgrade. Buy it here.

Artncraft Set of 10 Vintage Color Multi Designed Ceramic Cupboard Cabinet Door Knobs

Looking for something a little more eclectic? This mismatched Artncraft Set of 10 Vintage Color Multi Designed Ceramic Knobs is perfect for rustic design with flair. Buy it here.

Peaha Acrylic Drawer Pulls Kitchen Cabinet Handle Gold Dresser Drawer Pull

These Peaha Acrylic Drawer Pulls combine a gold, brushed brass accent with a clear acrylic pull, creating a stylish, yet unobtrusive look. Buy it here.

Get Some Sticky Stuff

If you ask your landlord nicely, you can paint your apartment. But there’s no way you can put up wallpaper or tile. Peel-and-stick wallpapers are a great (and cheap!) workaround for this. With this temporary wallpaper, you’ll make any room look brand-new.

Wenmer Geometric Hexagon Silver Peel and Stick Wallpaper

This Wenmer Geometric Hexagon Silver Peel and Stick Wallpaper is the perfect way to add an accent wall or even paper an entire room. The sleek and clean hexagon design is waterproof and leaves no residue when peeled off. Buy it here.

Upgraded, STICKGOO 10-Sheet Peel and Stick Subway Tile Backsplash, 13″x12″ Self-Adhesive Kitchen Backsplash Tiles

Subway tiles are a great way to give any kitchen a face-lift, but what if you can’t install tiles in your apartment? This STICKGOO 10-Sheet Peel and Stick Subway Tile Backsplash is a peel-and-stick wallpaper that’s made to look just like subway tiles! It’s a cheap and instant way to make your kitchen feel trendy. Buy it here.

Add Mirrors

Is your space feeling a little dark? Mirrors bring more light into your space, and you can use them to add some of your personal style to your wall.

Rivet Modern Round Cutout Hanging Mirror, 22.25″ Diameter, Gold

Rivet is an Amazon house brand that has a faintly midcentury modern style and some really interesting pieces for any home. This Rivet Modern Round Cutout Hanging Mirror works as a regular mirror or as an accent piece (or both!). Buy it here.

Stonebriar SB-6137A Gold Geometric Wall Mirror, 30 x 30

This eye-catching mirror doubles as a work of art. The Stonebriar Gold Geometric Wall Mirror is an octagon mirror with an antique-gold finish and an intricate wire metal frame. The only thing that can make it prettier is your reflection. Buy it here.

Gray Wash Windowpane Wall Mirror with Hooks

Going for a more rustic look? Mirrors that look like windows can make a room feel bigger and brighter. This Gray Wash Windowpane Wall Mirror with Hooks is a charming, homey mirror that will bring a farmhouse touch to your apartment. Buy it here.

Let There Be Light

Lamps and light fixtures are more than an important source of light; you can also use them to express your style.

Simple Designs Home LF1014-BLK Etagere Organizer Storage Shelf Linen Shade Floor Lamp, Black

Some lamps come with the benefit of extra storage. This Simple Designs Home Etagere Organizer Storage Shelf Linen Shade Floor Lamp is a cheap and easy way to light up your room and save space. Buy it here.

ROSEN GARDEN Floor Lamp, Standing Reading Light with Faux Marble Shelves and Fabric Shade

For a more polished and stylish take on the storage lamp, check out the ROSEN GARDEN Floor Lamp, Standing Reading Light with Faux Marble Shelves and Fabric Shade. The elegant design will look right at home in most apartments. The gold finish and faux marble shelves make it look three times as expensive as it actually is. Buy it here.

Globe Electric Maya 21″ Fillable Table Lamp

Looking for a way to add your own spin to your lighting? The Globe Electric Maya 21″ Fillable Table Lamp has a hollow body that allows you to fill it with anything you want to compliment your space. Fill it with vacation memorabilia, seashells, dice, fake flowers, marbles, stones and more. Buy it here.

Get Accent Chairs

The most important thing about a couch is that it’s comfortable. The most important thing about an accent chair is that it’s cute. If you’ve been wondering how to decorate your apartment, adding a super-stylized accent chair with a pop of color can make any space feel brand new. And since it’s a smaller piece of furniture, it’s way more affordable than replacing your whole couch.

Upholstery Living Room Chairs for Small Space Flora Scalloped Velvet Accent Chair

I recently bought this exact chair for my apartment, and I’m obsessed with it. The Upholstery Living Room Chair for Small Space Flora Scalloped Velvet Accent Chair looks like a colorful seashell, and it’s comfortable to boot! It’s perfect for any coastal, midcentury modern or quirky design. Available in a variety of colors. Buy it here.

Everlane Home Collins Button Tufted Barrel Wood Legs – Upholstered Tub Chair for Living Room

Talk about bang for your buck! The warm tones of the Everlane Home Collins Button Tufted Barrel Wood Legs Upholstered Tub Chair will class up whatever room you choose to put it in. The ergonomic design makes it as comfortable as it is stylish. Available in camel, gray and black. Buy it here.

Add a Personal Touch

Your house just isn’t a home without your favorite knickknacks and decor items. Here are some that will make your apartment home without making it homely.

JIC Gem Home Decorative 2 to 3 Lbs Polished Geode Agate Bookends

Add some color to your bookshelf with JIC Gem Home Decorative Polished Geode Agate Bookends. These polished half-geodes come in a variety of colors for you to choose from. Buy it here.

Ottoman Coffee Table Rustic Torched (17″x13″) Decorative Serving Tray with 4 Rounded Wooden Coasters

This Ottoman Rustic Torched Decorative Serving Tray can turn any ottoman into a coffee table. Or if you already have a table, it’s an instant way to add some organization. Buy it here.

Mason Jar Bathroom Accessories Set

Introduce some design cohesion to your bathroom with this Mason Jar Bathroom Accessories Set. This set includes a soap dispenser, a toothbrush holder and two apothecary jars for storage. Buy it here.

PENGKE Mirror Decorative Tray

This PENGKE Mirror Decorative Tray is perfect for a bathroom counter or vanity table. It will help organize your brushes, makeup, perfume and so much more while adding a delightfully retro air of luxury. Buy it here.

Discover more affordable home decor ideas.

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Did we inspire you with any of these ideas for how to decorate an apartment? Do you have a favorite decorating tip? Let us know in the comments below!