Design Dilemma Apartment Friendly Remedies
We’ve all been there a time or two - moving into an apartment and having some things we absolutely can’t stand about it. I remember when Jonathan (my husband) and I moved into our first apartment together. It was in Long Beach, CA (back in 2013). We called it “The Tree House,” because it was the corner apartment, on the second floor, and basically wrapped with trees. The location was amazing - right around the corner from the iconic Ferris Bueller house and just five minutes walking distance from a Jamba Juice, Coffee Bean, and Whole Foods! It couldn't get any better than that… well actually, it could.
Did I mention the rent was less than $950? We are talking about living in Los Angeles County for less than $1000. Unheard of right? So many wonderful things about that apartment, BUT it definitely came with a con or two (ugly-colored cabinets, wonky hardware, no AC). Nonetheless, I was not about to let those minor setbacks keep us from living our best life in the LBC, so I set out to make our little life in the Tree House beautiful. I painted those cabinets a pretty taupe color, closed the original holes in the kitchen cabinetry, and drilled new holes for brass hardware, leaving the space feeling like an entirely different kitchen. I even took the liberty of installing an AC unit in the window, and let me tell you, it changed our lives.
This is why I do my best to promote making a space “truly yours.” It can make a world of difference for our mental health. This leads me to the question I asked two weeks ago during a “Design Dilemma” series via my instagram stories, and then again via my blog last week: “Have something in your apartment you want to camoflauge?” An eyesore that is bothering you, but may seem difficult to address because you’re renting and living with certain restrictions (per a rental agreement). I received a few dilemmas and will do my best to address them (without an actual visual or dimensions of these spaces). I’m so happy to be able to help out and hope these suggestions help to do the trick! I’ll be listing each dilemma and my solution along with it. So let’s get to it!
Design Dilemma #1
“I have a massive a/c unit jutting out of the wall and I want to disguise it as a cabinet or something but still be able to use it.”
My Answer: About twenty friends asked this question! I really wish I had photos of the first apartment my husband and I lived in, because I ended up disguising our AC wall unit with a wooden box. You have so many choices as to what sort of wood to choose from and what size. I’ve placed an image above for you to get a good idea - I love this sort of architectural piece. You could DIY a box like this or purchase one here. You could also go the less expensive route and purchase a cloth cover here. Once you add the box cover, place plants on top of it to further camouflage this eye sore just make sure the plants can take in the cold air).
Design Dilemma #2
“The mirror closets!”
My Answer: I’ve actually done this one in a previous apartment. Hanging drapes/ curtains over the closet mirrors would offer really nice texture to the space. There’s also an option for a floating look by adding curtain wire with clips. Because you’re renting, I wouldn't advise any sort of adhesive... only because it could be tough to remove, and when dealing with glass (especially in a rental unit - we DO NOT want to break it).
Photo via pinterest / photographer unknown
Design Dilemma #3
“Wonky kitchen cupboards and drab floor tiles!”
My Answer: I’ve been here too friend, at the time, I asked our management company if I could paint the cabinets (got a color approval) and paint the tile white. Here is one of my favorite cabinet paint colors. You just want to make sure your pitch is perfect. If you pitch it good enough, you could even get them to subtract the cost from your monthly rent. This is what they did in our case. I’ve also seen a few people remove the front of cabinets (the cabinet doors) to expose the shelving. Then purchase nice cups and dishes to style the shelves. If you decide on the exposed look, you could even add some plants to doll up the shelves!
Photo via pinterest / photography by Dorothee Dubois
Design Dilemma #4
“My rental is so dark!”
My Answer: With permission, paint it white! Also add a light-colored rug to brighten the space. You can even opt for white curtains like the ones featured above.
Design Dilemma #5
“Ugly light fixtures and the world’s most hideous electric fireplace.”
My Answer: Swap out those ugly fixtures! It's very easy to do, but if you aren't up for the task, you could always get a handyman for the job! Plugin sconces also help to change the vibe of a space. Here’s one of my favorite chandeliers to use in rental spaces (it’s easy to swap out and costeffecitve). As for that electric fireplace, give it a makeover! I’d want to see what this one looks like, but in the meantime, I would say to add or swap out the border on it and/or paint it.
Design Dilemma #6
“The terrible light fixtures and old blinds”
My Answer: Check out my response for the light fixtures in DD#5 but as for the old blinds, you can remove these and add curtains/ drapes. Save the blinds so that when you move you can add them back. Removing them is easy (just may be a bit dusty). If you bring it to the property owner’s attention, they may even send someone in to replace them. I’ve had all of the windows replaced in my rental unit before (it’s all about the pitch).
Design Dilemma #7
“Beige walls.”
My Answer: Paint them! :)
Design Dilemma #8
“Non-functional stairs.”
My Answer: This one seems quite unique. It sounds like these stairs lead to nothing… if that is the case, I would totally use them as shelves. I’d style them and add all sorts of plants, books, etc… Just would need to be strategic as far as placement goes (so you can get to each stair in the future).
Design Dilemma #9
“Cream aluminium window frames that I can't stand! Walls are a grey-white colour and trimmings can be painted closer to true white but other than that I have no idea how to soften the contrast & ugliness.”
My Answer: Let’s camouflage these window frames! Opt for drapes/curtains friend. Be sure to extend the rod at least 4” on each side of the window frame (at most 10” on each side, if you’re looking to make the window look wider).
Design Dilemma #10
“I have one of the really old thermostats right in the middle of my living room wall that I would love to camouflage!”
My Answer: Hang a shelf like this below it (like the one pictured above) and style photos etc on top of it. This would be a great way to hide it or just have it blend in.
Design Dilemma #11
“My rental house used to be a nursing home so there’s a neon EXIT sign in the living room. Right when you walk into the house, because it’s by the exit of the house obviously lol. There are a lot of pretty details about my house that I love but I don’t know how to cover this exit sign up. Not sure if there is any hope for this dilemma.”
My Answer: Hi friend, this is definitely a unique dilemma. Not sure if you’re allowed to take it down during your time living there? Check with your property manager about taking it down first. If not, try using a packing tape and neatly place it over the sign. Color-match the paint from existing walls, and then paint the tape over the sign. Should help to blend in after this.
Design Dilemma #12
“our electricity meter and box is really chunky and placed on the right opposite the guest bathroom... how do we cover it up?”
My Answer: Chances are there are permitting and/or code regulations involved in making alterations to this. I would absolutely check with your property management company or landlord to discuss what changes can be made here.
Design Dilemma #13
“Popcorn ceiling”
My Answer: If this is a rental space, you might have to roll with the punches on this one friend. But, if you want to play into this architectural feature (yes, I’m calling it that) you could incorporate more mid-century pieces. When I think of popcorn ceilings, I think Mad Men. It may be worth bringing to your property management company’s attention, because if there is any sign of asbestos, they could remove it at cost to them. Also, if it makes you feel any better, just know it’s there to help quiet the space. So if you are getting a peaceful and quiet night’s sleep, thank your popcorn-ceilings. :)
Design Dilemma #14
“Basement Apartment. Minimal with Boho/Mid Century Modern vibes. The living room has one window and it’s VERY dark. The walls are already painted a warm white (Greek Villa by Valspar). There are 6 pot lights but maybe I should change the lighting? Or maybe get a full length mirror? I’m unsure. Helppp! 😩🤞🏾”
My Answer: A lot going on here friend. I would have to see this! DM me on Instagram and show me a picture of it. I’ll be able to help you out a bit better with a better visual.
Design Dilemma #15
“No entryway! The main door directly opens to the living with an awkward space. Picture this; when you open the main door, to the left is the convertible sofa bed while to the right is the shoe tray and fronting is an awkward wall.😖😓”
My Answer: This one is very specific to your space, send me a picture! :)
Design Dilemma #16
“Apartment paint that you can’t paint over 🤢”
My Answer: Go with a wallpaper here, friend. I’ve been loving some of the designs out there lately. I advise going with a good peel and stick. This way you can easily remove it when it’s time to move out of the apartment. They have so many good options! I’ve been eyeing a feather design, herringbone pattern, water color floral pattern, and a dandelion floral pattern!
Design Dilemma #17
“Sockets/plug points. How to safely disguise them?”
My Answer: I’ve actually been looking at these, as my little guy will be mobile before I know it! I’ve also been eyeing these for a while, but you can go the traditional route as well with these. Safety is the most important thing here, especially if a little kiddo is in the house.