If you’re a renter, you don’t want to spend a lot of money on apartment upgrades that won’t be permanent. But chances are you’d like the space to feel bigger and brighter. The solution? Invest in a fresh coat of paint, airy furnishings (like a “first” sofa that won’t break the bank), and more design tricks the Remodelista editors investigated this week:
Plywood Pegboard
“Without directions or guidelines, designing and executing a pegboard so that everything lines up cleanly takes a lot of thought. Fortunately, my husband has done the work for you,” writes Justine. See more in this week’s DIY post.
“First Sofas”
See our favorite classic sofas under $3,000 in this week’s 10 Easy Pieces post.
Neutral Paint Colors
“Among the benefits of cool-toned whites paints: They have more dimension than a ‘pure’ white and make walls and ceilings recede more than warm whites do (making spaces feel bigger),” writes contributor Eleanor McCole.
See Architects’ 8 Favorite Cool-Toned Neutral Paints in this week’s Paints & Palettes post.
Transparent Tea Cups
Why clear glass? “Because the tea drinker mixes water and tea from the samovar to her liking—and she’ll know she has it right by checking her glass,” says Meredith.
See more see-through choices in this week’s 10 Easy Pieces post.
Art Walls
“Always frame an artwork for the artwork, not for its surrounding environment. The artwork will fit into an interior much better if it’s not trying to match it, but reflects something about the space or its inhabitants,” says Salter. See more at A Modern Fairytale Told in 800 Square Feet: Sandeep Salter’s Family Apartment.