How To Make Your Apartment Cozier

How To Make Your Apartment Cozier

It’s no secret that all renters want to learn how to make their apartments cozier! One challenge that renters often face is learning how to personalize their apartment. Renting often means that you may have certain limitations when it comes to interior changes, however, there are still so many things you can do to make yourself feel right at home.

As an apartment renter myself, I can attest to the triumphs and the challenges of making your space cozier. I learned small tips along the way that have helped me save money on furniture and decor! I have even experimented with making some of my own decorations, and have used DIY elements to shape my living space.

In this blog, we will explore specific decorations, set-ups, and ways to make your apartment more cozy. Making your apartment cozy means that it will be more comfortable and inviting! Everyone’s definition of coziness is different, so don’t compare your space to anyone else’s. Your apartment should be a reflection of who you are and what makes you happy to be home! There are so many ways that you can make your apartment lifestyle and layout better! If you’re unhappy with your current apartment, keep reading for ways that you can improve your situation.

Apartment Renter Hacks For Cozy Vibes: 

Don’t let the limitations of renting hold you back from creating a space that you adore! Use these apartment renter hacks to bring out more cozy vibes. Regardless of your interest in decorating, these simple changes can completely change the aesthetic of your apartment. 

1 – Change To Soft Lighting

The lighting in your apartment can change the overall mood. Harsh lighting often resembles industrial spaces and is meant to help you stay alert and focused. If you’re looking to calm down at the end of a long day, you may want to switch up your lighting to softer lighting. Softer lighting doesn’t necessarily mean dim lighting, but also the type of lightbulb that you’re using.

Soft light is warm and yellow and gives off a more cozy feeling. This lighting type is best for rooms that you will be relaxing in, like your bedroom or living room. Explore lighting choices that best fit the vibe you want to instill in your home.

Lighting Choices: 

• When choosing light bulbs for soft lighting, consider using LED bulbs, which are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and available in a range of color temperatures. These are a great option to create the perfect cozy ambiance! 
• Incandescent bulbs, while providing warm, natural light, consume more energy and have a shorter lifespan compared to LEDs. 
• For a balanced option, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) offer better energy efficiency and are available in a variety of warm tones. 

2 – Use Rugs + Textiles

Hardwood floors are common in apartments, and while they’re aesthetically pleasing, they can also be a bit uncomfortable at times. Adding a fuzzy rug or simple textiles can enhance your apartment layout. Consider using warmer tones for any rugs or textiles you use.

Warmer tones can make your apartment have a more inviting atmosphere and it can enhance smaller spaces. Consider layering rugs and switching out your rugs each season to freshen up the entire vibe!

Textile Choices

• For a cozy and practical addition to your living room, consider using a wool rug, which is more durable and can look good layered on other rugs. 
• Cotton rugs are lightweight and easy to clean. They work well in bedrooms or entryways where you want a soft, inviting feel without too much maintenance. 
• To enhance warmth and soundproofing, hang thick drapes or velvet curtains over windows. The right curtains will add a touch of elegance but also help block out drafts and reduce outside noise.

3 – Display Blankets

If you have cozy blankets displayed throughout your apartment, you’ll be able to snuggle up quickly! Rather than buying a variety of blankets that you don’t love, it may be worth it to invest in one that you simply can’t live without.

Store it somewhere that you can easily access so that it won’t be a pain for when you need to warm up. You can even display your blankets so they act as a decoration as well. It will help you and your guests feel comfortable and cozy! 

4 – Add Life With Plants

Adding plants to your apartment can bring life into your little space. If you don’t feel that you have the time or energy to care for real plants, fake plants can still add the same greenery level and life. Plants are a simple decoration that goes a very long way in making your apartment cozier and feel more like home. They are simple decorations that can completely elevate a space! Plus, they make your air better and can support your sustainability efforts.

5 – Rearrange Your Space

Sometimes all you need to do is rearrange your space. Switching up your arrangement of furniture can be just what you need. Take a glance at your apartment’s current layout and determine if it’s the right set-up for you.

Another thing that may help your apartment feel more cozy is decluttering your belongings. It can be hard to feel comfortable if a bunch of chaos is surrounding you. While it does take a lot of effort to declutter, you’ll thank yourself later when you come home and feel more comfortable.

6 – Personalize Your Space

You will feel better when things are more catered to you! Adding personal touches to your space doesn’t have to be an expensive or elaborate process. Before you look into personalizing your apartment more, ask yourself what makes you feel inspired and relaxed.

You can also create a mood board on Pinterest to find more of what you like. Each of us has different things that help us to unwind at the end of a long day. The more it feels like you, the more at home you will feel.

7 – Utilize A Bookshelf

Utilize a bookshelf for your own personal library, or to host other decorations. Books are a cozy decoration, and they’re perfect for when you want to sit back and relax with a cup of tea. To make your bookshelf more relaxing, you can create a reading nook.

Simply place a chair, blanket, and pillow near your reading area. This will be the perfect place for you to enjoy your space! You can also use your bookshelves as a great storage option for small items.

8 – Get A Welcome Mat

A welcome mat is the first thing that you will see when you get home. It can represent that you’re now in your own safe space where you can relax and be yourself. Shop around for a welcome mat that you love. One that will set the tone for you every time that you come through your door. It will also be the perfect way to welcome guests into your home! 

9 –  Change The Scent

The scent of our apartment can easily change the way that we feel. Certain smells trigger feelings of warmth and relaxation. The best part about choosing your apartment’s scent is that you get to choose the scent that works best for you.

Discover a candle you love, or use a diffuser with essential oils to add persistent feelings to your space. A delicious smell can definitely make your apartment more cozy.

Seasonal Coziness

As the seasons change, your apartment’s decor and atmosphere should adapt to keep things feeling cozy and inviting. Each season brings its own unique vibe, and with a few adjustments, you can ensure your space stays comfortable and welcoming all year round.

Winter: Embrace Warmth and Comfort

Winter is all about staying warm and comfortable. To make your apartment a cozy haven during the colder months, consider the following tips:

• Layer Textiles: Add extra blankets and throws to your living spaces. Opt for plush fabrics like fleece or faux fur to create a warm and inviting environment.

• Seasonal Decor: Incorporate winter-themed decor such as pinecones, evergreen branches, and fairy lights to evoke a festive and cozy atmosphere.

• Warm Lighting: Use warm-toned light bulbs and candles to create a soft, comforting glow. Consider adding string lights around windows or along shelves to enhance the cozy feel.

• Rugs and Carpets: Lay down thicker rugs or add additional layers to keep your floors warm and your feet comfortable. Wool or shag rugs are excellent choices for winter coziness.

• Window Treatments: Insulated curtains can help keep the cold out and the warmth in. Choose heavier fabrics like velvet or thermal curtains to add both style and function.

Spring: Fresh and Airy

Spring is the time to refresh and rejuvenate your space. Bring in elements that reflect the blossoming nature outside:

• Bright Colors: Swap out darker winter decor for lighter, brighter colors. Think pastels, floral patterns, and fresh, clean linens.

• Airy Fabrics: Replace heavy winter textiles with lighter fabrics like cotton and linen. Sheer curtains can let in more natural light and fresh air.

• Plants and Flowers: Add potted plants or fresh flowers to bring a touch of nature indoors. They can brighten up any room and improve the air quality.

• Declutter: Spring is the perfect time for a thorough cleaning and decluttering. A clean, organized space can feel more open and welcoming.

• Scent Refresh: Switch out wintery scents for fresh, floral fragrances. Use diffusers, candles, or room sprays with scents like lavender, citrus, or jasmine.

Summer: Cool and Breezy

• Light Fabrics: Use lightweight and breathable fabrics for bedding and upholstery. Cotton and linen are great choices to keep things cool.

• Cooling Accessories: Invest in fans or air purifiers to maintain good airflow. Consider using bamboo mats or cooling gel pads on furniture.

• Minimal Decor: Embrace a minimalist approach to avoid overcrowding and keep the space feeling airy. Clear out unnecessary items and keep the decor simple and light.

• Outdoor Spaces: If you have a balcony or patio, set it up with comfortable seating and plants to create an inviting outdoor retreat.

• Natural Light: Maximize natural light by keeping windows clean and using sheer curtains. This helps to create a bright, open atmosphere.

Fall: Warm and Inviting

• Autumnal Colors: Introduce warm tones like oranges, reds, and browns through pillows, throws, and other decor items.

• Seasonal Accents: Decorate with fall-themed items such as pumpkins, dried leaves, and acorns. These can add a touch of seasonal charm to your space.

• Comfortable Layers: Add extra layers to your seating areas with cozy blankets and cushions. Consider materials like wool and fleece for added warmth.

• Ambient Lighting: Use candles and lanterns to create a warm, ambient glow. Scented candles with fall fragrances like cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice can enhance the seasonal atmosphere.

• Cozy Corners: Create a reading nook with a comfortable chair, a soft throw, and good lighting. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a book as the days get shorter.

DIY Cozy Apartment Decor

Apartment decor is expensive and it can quickly exceed your budget! If you want a more cost effective way to personalize your space, explore DIY cozy apartment decor. DIY decorations can be a fun way to spend your time, save your money, and to use your creativity. Choose from the cozy decor ideas below:

1. Homemade Candles: Create your own scented candles using essential oils, beeswax, and glass jars. You can personalize them with dried flowers or herbs.
2. Custom Throw Pillows: Decorate plain throw pillow covers with fabric paint, stencils, or appliqué designs.
3. Macramé Wall Hangings: Make your own macramé wall hangings to add a boho touch and texture to your walls.
4. Photo String Lights: Attach your favorite photos to a string of fairy lights with clothespins for a warm, personalized lighting display.
5. Hand-Painted Plant Pots: Decorate plain terracotta pots with acrylic paint to create unique homes for your indoor plants.
6. DIY Floating Shelves: Build and install floating shelves to display books, plants, or decorative items.
7. Knitted or Crocheted Blankets: Create a cozy, handmade blanket using knitting or crocheting skills. 
8. Fabric Wall Art: Frame pieces of your favorite fabrics or create fabric-covered canvases to add color and texture to your walls.
9. Customized Doormat: Use outdoor paint and stencils to personalize a plain coir doormat with a welcoming message or design.
10. Mason Jar Lanterns: Fill mason jars with fairy lights or tea candles for a charming, rustic lighting option.
11. DIY Headboard: Construct a simple, padded headboard using plywood, foam, fabric, and a staple gun to add a cozy touch to your bedroom.
12. Handmade Coasters: Craft coasters from cork, wood slices, or tiles and decorate them with paint, decoupage, or fabric.
13. Woven Wall Baskets: Use baskets as wall decor to add an earthy, textured element to your space.
14. Personalized Welcome Sign: Create a welcoming sign for your entryway using wood, paint, and stencils.
15. Natural Branch Decor: Collect branches and twigs, then arrange them in a vase or use them to create a rustic wall hanging.
16. DIY Dreamcatcher: Make a dreamcatcher with a hoop, string, and feathers to add a whimsical touch to your bedroom.
17. Upcycled Furniture: Give old furniture a new life with paint, new hardware, or added upholstery.
18. Herb Garden: Create a small indoor herb garden using mason jars, pots, or even a vertical wall planter.
19. Fabric Garland: Sew or tie together strips of fabric to create a cheerful garland for your walls or mantel.
20. Cork Board: Make a custom cork board with a frame and cork tiles, then decorate it with paint or fabric for a functional and stylish piece.
21. Woven Rugs: Try your hand at weaving a small rug using a DIY loom and fabric strips or yarn.
22. Painted Rocks: Collect smooth stones and paint them with inspirational words or colorful designs to use as paperweights or decor.
23. Glass Bottle Vases: Repurpose your glass bottles by painting or decorating them, then use them as vases for fresh flowers.
24. Pressed Flower Art: Press flowers and arrange them in frames for a delicate and natural art piece.

Renter-Friendly Adaptations & Advice:

All renters need guidance on how they can decorate their apartment better, while still following the rules of their property! While decorating, you need to always be cautious of causing permanent damage to the apartment that could result in the loss of your security deposit or result in additional charges. Focus on non-permanent changes and emphasize your ideas that will allow you to optimize your space without breaking your lease terms! Follow the below tips to ensure that you’re making renter-friendly adaptations.

• Opt for removable and non-damaging wall solutions such as peel-and-stick wallpaper or decals to add color and pattern to your space. 
• Command hooks and strips are perfect for hanging art, mirrors, and even lightweight shelves without leaving marks. They are a much better alternative than nails and will not leave lasting holes or remove paint! 
• Incorporate multi-functional furniture that offers storage solutions to maximize your living space and reduce clutter, such as ottomans with hidden compartments or bed frames with built-in drawers.

The right decorations will create a warm, inviting environment that reflects your personal style while keeping your rental agreement intact!

Make your apartment your dream home! 

You deserve to come home to a space that represents you and makes you feel comfortable within your own space. The right apartment set-up doesn’t have to cost thousands of dollars and you don’t have to always buy new items! DIY cozy decor, use different organizational techniques, or simply rearrange your space. Be sure to always follow your property’s decorating rules and ask your leasing team about any questions that you may have. Don’t forget to be patient with yourself as you build your dream space. Take your time, use your creativity, and make your apartment cozier each day!

On the hunt for a new apartment?

Related posts:

How To Get Your Apartment Ready For Spring How To Budget For Your First Apartment How To Find The Right Apartment For You How To Improve Living With An Apartment Roommate

Categorised in: Apartment Living

This post was written by Isabella Housel

Isabella Housel is a passionate and versatile professional writer with a deep love for words and a commitment to crafting compelling content that engages, informs, and inspires. With many years of experience in the industry, she has honed her skills across various genres, from creative storytelling to informative articles and technical documentation.