How to Decorate an Apartment Without Damaging the Walls

There’s nothing like decorating your apartment to fill it with sprinkles of your personal style. However, as a renter, it’s essential to be mindful of the walls and avoid causing damage. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to spruce up your space without drilling holes or using nails. Let’s look at some of these ideas together:

Why Do I Need to Be Careful of Apartment Walls?

As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the condition of your apartment as outlined in your lease agreement. This typically includes leaving the apartment in the same state as when you moved in.

Damaging the walls can result in losing your security deposit. Even minor damage, like nail holes or scratches, can result in extra charges. In the most severe cases, a landlord may take legal action to recover some costs. 

How to Decorate without Damaging Apartment Walls

Thankfully, there are many ways to jazz up your living quarters without damaging the walls. Here are some of our favourites:

Use Removable Adhesive Strips or Hooks

These strips or hooks are an excellent way to hang pictures, frames, and other wall decor without damaging the walls with nails or screws. These products are designed to hold items securely in place but can be easily removed without leaving any residue or peeling the paint. Various types of adhesive strips and hooks available on the market can hold different weights, so ensure you choose the right ones for your needs.

Lean Art and Mirrors Against the Wall

This is a great way to add visual appeal to your apartment without hanging anything and puncturing the walls. This option is ideal for larger pieces that might be difficult to put up or for those who prefer a more casual, laid-back look. Don’t forget to secure the bottom of the art or mirror against the wall, so it doesn’t accidentally fall and break.

Use Freestanding Furniture

Freestanding furniture, such as bookcases, room dividers, or screens, can also add personality and style to an apartment without causing any damage. Since these items can stand alone, they can be positioned against walls without requiring drilling or mounting. You can also move them around easily whenever you want to switch up your layout. The best part? No plastering or painting is required each time you do this!

Create a Gallery Wall with Washi Tape

If you want to dedicate a wall to a full display of photos or artwork, washi tape is a great option. This decorative masking tape is made from natural fibres and is common in DIY projects. To create your gallery, choose the photos or artwork you want to display. Use the washi tape to create frames around each piece in your desired shape. Once you have completed your frames, stick them on the wall in an arrangement that speaks to you.

Want to Put These Ideas to the Test?

If you’re looking for an apartment and want to try some of these decorating ideas, check out our apartment listings at CLV Group! We have options for all your unique needs across Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia.