Moving into a new apartment in LA is expensive enough without adding hundreds of dollars in decorating costs. But a few strategic purchases can transform a generic rental into a space that feels uniquely yours — all without breaking the bank.
New Throw Pillows ($15-40): The fastest way to refresh a living room. Choose pillows in your color scheme with varying textures — velvet, linen, knit — for visual interest. Two or three is all you need.
A Statement Mirror ($20-50): A large round or arched mirror from a thrift store or discount retailer makes any room feel bigger and brighter. Lean it against a wall for zero-damage display.
Plants and Planters ($10-30): A pothos in a ceramic planter on a shelf, a snake plant in the corner, or herbs on the kitchen windowsill. Living plants add color, texture, and improve air quality.
Updated Curtains ($20-45): Swap dingy mini-blinds for floor-length curtains. Hang the rod high and wide to make windows (and rooms) appear larger. Linen-look curtains in white or a neutral tone work everywhere.
Area Rug ($30-50): A 5x7 rug from a discount retailer defines your living space and adds warmth. Layer a smaller accent rug on top for a designer look on a budget.
Candles & Trays ($10-25): A cluster of candles on a decorative tray creates an instant coffee table centerpiece. Choose scented candles in glass containers that double as decor.
Gallery Wall Kit ($25-40): Print your own photos or download free printable art online. A set of matching frames from a dollar store creates a cohesive gallery wall for under $20.
New Towels ($15-30): Fresh, matching towels in your bathroom color scheme are the cheapest bathroom upgrade with the biggest visual impact. Roll them for a spa feel.
Peel-and-Stick Tiles ($25-50): A small sheet of peel-and-stick tiles behind the bathroom sink or kitchen stove creates a focal point that looks custom.
LED Strip Lights ($15-25): Behind a TV, under a bed frame, or along a bookshelf — LED strips create ambient lighting that transforms the mood of any room after dark.
Decorative Baskets ($10-20): Baskets organize while looking good. Use them for blankets by the couch, toiletries in the bathroom, or produce in the kitchen. Natural woven textures add warmth.
A New Shower Curtain ($15-30): It's basically an art canvas for your bathroom. Choose a bold pattern or color that sets the tone for the whole room.
Floating Shelf ($15-35): One well-styled floating shelf — a plant, a framed photo, a candle, and a small object — creates a curated moment on any wall. Command strip versions require zero holes.
Contact Paper ($8-15): Line a drawer, cover a countertop, or wrap a boring tray. Marble-look contact paper is versatile and always looks polished.
Every single one of these upgrades is renter-friendly and portable — they're investments in your quality of life that go with you to every apartment.