5 Stylish and Rental-Friendly Ways to Decorate your Wall.
One of the biggest challenges of living in a rental is figuring out how to personalize your space without damaging the walls. Whether you're an expat, moving frequently, or simply renting long-term, you want your home to feel warm and inviting without risking your security deposit. The good news? There are plenty of creative, damage-free ways to add wall art that reflects your style. Here are five stylish options to consider.
1. Removable Wall Decals and Stickers
Wall decals and stickers are a fantastic way to add color and personality without commitment. They come in a variety of designs, from minimalist patterns to bold murals, and can be easily removed when it's time to move. Look for high-quality, reusable options that won’t leave residue behind.
amazing peel and stick wall paper by RoomMates Decor
Why It Works:
Removable decals allow you to transform an entire wall in minutes. Unlike traditional wallpaper, they can be peeled off effortlessly, making them ideal for renters. Many brands now offer custom decal designs, so you can even create something unique to your home.
Recommended Brands:
WallPops - Offers stylish and modern peel-and-stick wallpaper and decals.
RoomMates Decor – Known for high-quality, removable wall decals and murals.
Urban Walls – Specializes in elegant, contemporary wall decals and wallpapers.
Tip:
Choose decals that complement your furniture and decor to create a cohesive look. You can also use them to mimic wallpaper for a statement wall!
2. Leaning Art and Mirrors
If your lease prohibits hanging anything on the walls, leaning artwork and mirrors against the wall is an elegant alternative. Large framed prints or mirrors propped up on a console or dresser create a relaxed, yet intentional, design aesthetic.
Why It Works:
Leaning art gives you the flexibility to switch up your decor without making any permanent changes. It also works beautifully in minimalist and contemporary interiors, creating a stylish and effortless vibe.
Recommended Brands:
IKEA Australia – Offers affordable, stylish framed prints and mirrors.
West Elm Australia – Great for high-quality, modern framed art and decorative mirrors.
Temple & Webster – Known for statement mirrors and artistic wall decor.
Create an optical illusion!
Adding XL Mirrors to a large wall in a small space will create feeling of space.
Tip:
Layer different-sized frames together for a curated look. A large mirror can also help reflect light and make your space feel bigger!
3. Command Hooks and Strips
Command hooks and adhesive strips are renter favorites for a reason—they allow you to hang lightweight artwork and decorative pieces without making holes. They work well for picture frames, lightweight canvases, and even hanging textiles.
Why It Works:
These damage-free hanging solutions are strong enough to hold most artwork but can be removed without leaving a trace. This makes them perfect for renters who want to add framed art or even decorative plates without the hassle of patching holes later.
Recommended Brands:
Command by 3M – The go-to brand for strong, removable adhesive hooks and strips.
VELCRO® Brand HANGables – Another great option for damage-free wall hanging.
Gorilla Mounting Tape – Ideal for heavier wall decor items.
Tip:
Follow the weight guidelines on the package to ensure your artwork stays in place. If you’re displaying multiple pieces, try a gallery wall layout using removable hooks!
4. Fabric Wall Hangings
Textile wall art, like tapestries, macramé hangings, or fabric panels, adds warmth and texture to your space without requiring nails or screws. You can drape them using tension rods, adhesive strips, or decorative clips.
Why It Works:
Fabric wall hangings introduce softness and warmth to a room, making them an excellent choice for bedrooms and living spaces. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and come in various styles to suit different aesthetics.
Recommended Brands:
Society6 Australia – Offers unique artist-designed tapestries.
Etsy Australia – A great place to find handmade macramé and textile art. Check out this amazing artist and her XL macramé.
Adairs – Stylish, modern tapestries perfect for rentals.
Tip:
For a more refined look, choose neutral fabrics with subtle textures, or go bold with vibrant prints to make a statement. Consider layering textiles with other decor elements to create depth.
5. Floating Shelves with Damage-Free Adhesives
Floating shelves add storage and display space without requiring permanent installation. With strong adhesive mounting strips, you can install small floating shelves that hold lightweight objects like plants, candles, or decorative pieces.
Why It Works:
These adhesive shelves allow renters to incorporate functional decor into their space. They're perfect for creating mini gallery walls, showcasing books, or displaying souvenirs from your travels.
Recommended Brands:
Command Floating Shelves – Damage-free shelving solutions with strong adhesive backing.
Umbra Australia – Modern and minimal floating shelves for small decorative items.
Kmart Australia – Budget-friendly, renter-friendly shelving options.
Tip:
Use a mix of vertical and horizontal placements to create a balanced look. Always check the weight capacity of the adhesive strips to ensure they hold your decor securely.
Personalizing your rental doesn't have to mean sacrificing your security deposit! These five options allow you to express your style in a way that's temporary, affordable, and damage-free. By using removable decals, leaning art, command hooks, fabric hangings, and floating shelves, you can turn any rental into a stylish and inviting home.
If you're looking for more ways to make your rental feel like home, let's chat—I’d love to help you create a space that reflects your personality, no matter where you are in the world!
