Designing a New York City rental space can be a challenge. You are generally restricted to white walls and neutral carpet or wood floors, and don’t have the leeway to renovate. You don’t want to make modifications that would endanger your security deposit; you also don’t want to waste money buying fixtures that won’t come with you when you move. That said, there are several smart interior design moves you can execute to transform your space into a customized home.
1. Think Long Term
It’s important to look for pieces that fit well in your space and would also fit well in another space when you move. A smart interior design choice when it comes to furniture is to pick a modular sofa. Helpfully, it comes in multiple pieces, so you don’t have to worry about getting it into the elevator and into your apartment, and the pieces are fungible, so the sofa can be switched from right-facing to left-facing and vice-versa to accommodate a small space.
When you go to the store, make sure that you bring your measuring tape, and before you leave home, get the dimensions of your elevator and all doorways. Usually, beds come with separate rails and can be put together in the space. If you are getting a queen-sized mattress, make sure to get a split box spring. The pieces that are typically problematic in terms of size are sofas, dressers, and box springs, so just be aware.
2. One Piece, Multiple Uses
Another thing to consider is pieces that can serve multiple purposes. Many apartments don’t have a designated dining area, and if forced to choose, you won’t want to use up valuable living space with a table and chairs. For example, look at coffee tables that have a panel that can extend to the perfect height for dining. In the best-case scenario, your end table may also have storage space. Look for small furniture pieces that can last for a while, and that have various uses.
Aside from function and practicality, it’s also important to think about how to make a space feel personal and cozy without altering paint, flooring, or permanent fixtures in the apartment. There are lots of great ways to do this. First, consider ways that you can bring color into the space. Throw pillows are inexpensive and can do wonders to personalize a space and bring in color. It is best to keep the big pieces of furniture neutral and bring in color through pillows, throws, and artwork. This will give you more flexibility later and you won’t be locked into a color scheme that may not work in a future space.
3. Display Accessories
Another smart interior design tip to explore is displaying accessories. Displays of favorite collections or personal photos can help make the space feel like yours. A great way to save money and bring unique pieces into your space is to look in vintage stores. This will allow you to bring in some unusual design elements that can make a space feel personal. A cool, vintage chair, or some interesting vintage lamps can make a big impact. Often vintage pieces are very well priced and are much better quality than something similar that is made today.
So, don’t be afraid to express yourself in a rental space! With some flexible pieces of furniture like a neutral sectional sofa, some colorful throw pillows and throws, a collection of personal accessories, and some unique smaller pieces of furniture, you can create a space that is one of a kind and won’t break the bank.
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Editor’s Note: We updated this article to enhance readability. Article by Jennie Kerson Pritzker, is a Philadelphia-based interior designer and owner of Jennie Pritzker Interiors.
