Nothing changes the ambiance of a room quite like lighting. A warm glow or focused source of illumination can spotlight architecture or craft a more inviting space. But if you’re a renter, you might not have the flexibility to make significant changes to your property. Drilling or making any sort of indentation in a wall could result in a fine.
Fortunately, renters can make lighting improvements without making a big mess. And you won’t need to be very handy to enact some big changes. Keep reading to discover five renter-friendly lighting upgrades that will look great, keep your budget secure, and avoid incurring a fine from your landlord.
1. Try Adhesive-Backed LED Strips
When you want to inject some personality and style into your kitchen or living room, try LED strips. These flexible, adhesive-backed strips can be installed easily just about anywhere. Add them below your kitchen cabinets for extra lighting on your counters. Or install them along shelves in your bedroom or living area to highlight a decorative arrangement. Choose a warm white light to create a calm vibe in your bedroom, or introduce color-changing lights for some festive fun.
LED lights are affordable, with many peel-and-stick strips costing under $100. Often, scissors will be sufficient for cutting the strip to the desired size. Just be sure to clean the surface to which you’ll attach the strip first for better adhesion. And know that your LED strips won’t damage the surface, so they’re easy to remove when you decide to leave your apartment.
2. Add Personality with Custom Neon Signs
You’ll impress your guests and create a fun atmosphere with custom neon signs from RadikalNeon.com. With the advent of LED technology, you’ll have a safe and brighter neon sign that’s a perfect fit for apartment living. Illuminate a meaningful quote, spell out your family name, or choose a fun linear image to add to your wall. And because signs are portable, you’ll be able to take them with you when your journey continues to another home.
Neon signs generally start around $100, and more intricate or larger signs will cost more. Typically, your neon sign will come with an apartment-friendly hanging system, like adhesive strips. LED lights keep these signs lightweight, so you won’t need an intense wall-mounting system. Just be sure that you’re displaying a sign that has UL or CE certifications, which indicate safety compliance.
3. Go with Plug-In Pendants
You may not be allowed to mess with the electrical wiring within your apartment’s overhead lights. In response, turn to plug-in pendant lights to upgrade your lighting scenario. Many of these lights clock in at under $100, and they often use adhesive hooks to make hanging lights easier.
Install a pendant light above your dining table. Or place one above your desk to make remote work or studying a little more stylish and enjoyable. You’ll be able to pack up these lights easily if you ever move.
4. Highlight Artwork with Battery-Operated Lights
Battery-operated picture lights can provide gallery-style lighting within your apartment. Use these lights to draw attention to framed artwork or other wall hangings. At around $50, these lights are affordable, too. Choose a dimmable option with a flattering finish that enhances your artwork or family photos. Best of all, you won’t need to lug out any tools to install picture lights. They simply attach directly to your frames.
Impress your guests by spotlighting a few photos in your hallway. Or create a gallery wall in your main living area to showcase your growing art collection. You’ll create a dramatic focal point in any space.
5. Upgrade to Smart Bulbs
Maybe you already have a strong assortment of table and floor lamps. If so, improve your lighting quality with smart bulbs. You can connect these bulbs to your Wi-Fi to make customizing your apartment’s ambiance so much easier. Shift the brightness or set a lighting schedule so your rooms always look good.
Plan on spending $50 or less for a single bulb. Just be sure you’re choosing bulbs that have an appropriate wattage for your lamps. These bulbs fit standard sockets, and they’re as simple as it gets when it comes to installation.
Don’t Settle for Bad Lighting
Even if you face restrictions as a renter, you can still invest in better lighting. Choose renter-friendly upgrades that will improve your space’s ambiance without blemishing the walls or ceilings. Add plug-in pendants and adhesive-backed LED strips to boost lighting quality in your kitchen. Hang a neon sign for a splash of color and personality. Or spotlight your favorite wall art with picture lights.
Each of these lighting options can help your apartment feel more likely a home. And you’ll be able to pack these lights and take them wherever you go next.
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