Moving: Our tips for decorating your apartment without breaking the bank

Stick to basics to create a “wow” effect

Your space may be limited, and you’d like to give it a spacious feel. A well-chosen mirror can help a room seem bigger. And keep it simple. Avoid cluttering your space by carefully selecting each thrifty item that will find its way into your home.

Multifunctional furniture—such as a folding table or a bed with built-in storage—can come to your rescue. And if you’re lucky enough to live with a roommate, talk to them beforehand to avoid having two of the same things. Come up with a plan together to decide where you'll put your respective furniture before buying anything new!

Add textiles for ambiance

Cushions, throws, rugs and curtains are relatively affordable ways to personalize your space. In addition to adding colour and texture to a room, they make it easy to adjust your decor however you like.

A rug, for example, can make a room feel cozier, and a decorative throw can add a homey touch to a sofa. Textiles are often less expensive than furniture and can easily be taken with you from one home to another. You’ll find several other ideas for cheap ways to refresh your decor in this collection of clever makeovers!

Hunt for second-hand treasures

Thrift stores, garage sales and resale platforms are full of furniture and home decor at low prices. A side table, lamp or used bookcase can be given a new lease on life with a simple dusting and a few touches of paint.

This approach not only saves you money, but also creates a unique decor that highlights your taste. Just like a puzzle, you can fit pieces together, one at a time, whenever time allows. And don’t hesitate to swap cheap home decor items with friends before buying new ones!

Add personality with posters and wall art

To decorate your apartment without breaking the bank, there’s no need to invest in expensive artwork to adorn your walls. Posters, photographs, printed digital images or even your own creations can make all the difference—and for cheap!

However, when you’re renting, it’s best to personalize your apartment walls without making holes. To avoid damaging the walls, choose materials designed to be removed without leaving marks, such as:

• Adhesive hooks
• Self-adhesive hanging strips
• Removable wallpaper
• Hanging string lights

Easily create a cozy atmosphere

Lighting is an important factor in creating the desired atmosphere in your living space. The right lamp can make any space more inviting—without costing an arm and a leg. Believe it or not, a few well-chosen light fixtures can have a bigger impact than changing your furniture!

Plants also add colour and life to an apartment. Add a few to your decor. Some varieties are quite affordable and require minimal care. Even just a few small plants placed on a shelf, desk or windowsill can help make the space more vibrant. And the best thing is that with a bit of care, they can survive for years. It’s a great way to decorate on the cheap!

You can also get inspiration on social media, where countless discoveries await! And should you feel like treating yourself to some new finds—rugs, furniture, lighting, bedding and home decor—these online stores may have just what you’re looking for. Lastly, there’s Etsy, a great place to support local artisans who create one-of-a-kind gems!

Protect your cozy nest

Even when renting, we often accumulate more belongings than we realize: appliances, furniture, clothes, electronics, bicycles, sports equipment and more. Tenants’ home insurance can help protect these belongings in the event of a covered loss, such as theft, fire or water damage, while also providing civil liability coverage. It’s a simple way to enjoy peace of mind while living life to the fullest in your affordably decorated home!

Need to change your address? Remember that the auto and home insurance client space is a secure online space that belongs to you! It essentially allows you to manage your auto and home insurance online, whenever you want!

FAQ – Decorating your apartment without breaking the bank

What are the best cheap apartment decor ideas for renters?

It’s easy for renters to personalize their spaces with affordable, temporary solutions. Framed posters, mirrors, plants, string lights and peel-and-stick wallpaper are among the most popular options. Rearranging furniture or adding a few well-chosen accessories can also breathe new life into a room without breaking the bank.

Can you decorate an apartment without damaging the walls?

Yes. Today, there are many products available that allow you to decorate your apartment without putting holes in the walls. Removable adhesive strips, no-drill hooks and certain types of self-adhesive wallpaper are designed to be easily removed when you move. These solutions are especially popular with renters—and landlords!

Where can I buy cheap apartment decor in Canada?

Thrift stores, garage sales, flea markets and online resale platforms can be excellent sources of furniture and decorative items for cheap. Big-box, discount and some home decor stores also offer affordable accessories to freshen up your space without breaking the bank.

How do I protect my furniture and decor in a rental apartment?

Even when purchased at low prices, furniture, decorative items and personal belongings often add up to a significant value. Tenants’ home insurance can help protect your belongings in the event of a covered loss, such as theft, fire or water damage. Civil liability insurance can also be useful in specific situations covered by home insurance policies.