20 Rental and Dorm Wall Decor Ideas that Feel Like Home

1. Temporary Wallpaper

Peel and stick wallpaper is the renter’s solution to adding instant style without risking your security deposit. This modern alternative to traditional wallpaper is self-adhesive, meaning it’s virtually mess-free and much more forgiving.

What to know about peel and stick wallpaper before you hang it:

• Temporary wallpaper may not be optimal for textured surfaces.
• Try to wait at least a month before adding over freshly painted surfaces.
• For best adhesion, clean your walls and allow surfaces to fully dry 24-48 hours before hanging.

2. Fabric on Walls

Fabric lined walls is a vintage technique worth revisiting. Using fabric is an easy, and often economical way, to layer prints and textures to create a cozy, cocoon-like atmosphere. Unlike wallpaper, fabric can be used on textured walls and, in some cases, camouflages imperfections.

Renter-friendly ways to attach fabric to walls:

• Upholstery Tacks or Upholstery Strips
• Pair Velcro Command Strips with Upholstery hook and loop tape– I use these all the time!
• For lightweight, non-stretchy fabrics, you can use liquid starch to hang and remove.
• Hang on long curtain rods or use Command Hooks spaced appropriately.

If you’re working with a trickier surface or simply aren’t prepared to commit to wallpaper, use sticky decals. There’s no complicated installation process as the stickers are placed one at a time. Easily work around any built-in features without complicated measurements or cuts.

Some of my favorite designs:

• Watercolor Peonies
• Geometric Lines
• Botanical Wildflowers
• Retro Rainbows
• Bird Decals

4. Temporary Murals

Make a bold statement with a removable mural. Murals are vibrant art-inspired designs that transforms any wall into an eye-catching accent. It’s a dynamic way to transition a space from dull to delightful. Urban walls has some abstract and artful ideas for renters here.

5. Pegboard

One of the projects I get the most feedback on is our craft room pegboard installation tutorial. And with good reason. Pegboards are an inexpensive and functional way to add chic organization to any space. Accessorize with cups, baskets, dowel rods, pictures and more.

6. Peel & Stick Tile

Reap the rewards of traditional tile without the commitment of mortar or grout. Using a thin backerboard or foam board, you can use this peel and stick glass tile tutorial to complete the look. From stylish sheets to individual tiles composed of vinyl, glass, metal and stone- our beginner friendly tutorial walks you through a seamless installation.

7. Wall Panels

Temporary wall panels make an excellent accent option for rental spaces or any other dwelling. There are many modern choices to DIY a panel wall. Finishes range from wood plank to faux brick or stone, metallic tile and traditional board and batten. Temporary panels are fairly easy to install and remove; no heavy-duty tools required. Here are some of our favorite renter-friendly ways to create different accent walls:

Pro Tip: Don’t assume that something is removeable unless it specifically says so. You can also use inexpensive hardboard such as luan as a mounting base for extra peace of mind. 

Here are some various styles to give you ideas:

• White PVC Wall Paneling: The sophistication of wainscoting with the ease of DIY installation.
• Peel & Stick Vinyl Paneling: An efficient cost-effective process that adds the organic appearance of wood planking.
• 3D Wave Style Wall Panels: PVC 3D Wall Panels are ideal for covering stubborn or problematic surfaces like walls and ceilings. This green metallic option is simply stunning.
• Acoustic Slat Wall Paneling: I did use these for a project along with Velcro no damage hangers.

8. Stripes

Stripes are effortlessly chic and always in style. They draw the eye in to set a vertical or horizontal perspective. This adaptability makes stripes a motif that be interweaved into any design. If renting prevents you from painting perfect stripes, use washi tape or line style decals to create stripes, diagonal shapes, or plaid patterns.

Pro Tip! How to Create Washi Tape Stripes with Success:

1. Use one person to support the roll and one person to smooth the tape as its applied.
2. To create a guide, measure the vertical or horizontal point where want your tape to stick in a few points along the same line. Use stickers or pencil to guide you after measuring.
3. Smooth washi tape down as its applied rather than at the end to prevent air from getting trapped underneath.
4. To remove air bubbles, swipe a squeegee over your design.

9. Leaning Art Display

Leaning art is perfect for those who like to rearrange their space often or prefer a laid-back studio vibe. It’s as effortless as it is intentional.

Here are some key considerations to make this trend look stylish rather than slovenly:

1. Choose artwork large enough to anchor in a space for floor displays.
2. Elevate and layer smaller prints for a gallery effect with instant depth.
3. Style art with complementary components like a plant, mantel, or shelf.
4. Secure with non-slip pads, Velcro strips or similar especially if you have small children or pets in your home.

10. Faux Stone or Brick Accent Wall

A textured accent wall adds warmth while still inviting a clean, modern vibe. Thanks to modern innovation, there are a plethora of options available to make installation a breeze – even for beginners.

• Stone veneer adds “wow” factor to any space. Choices range from lightweight panels to peel & stick options.
• Faux Brick walls provide urban texture and rustic charm without the expense and mess of real brick. Paneling varieties are often textured to maintain the authentic feel and you can use removeable solutions to get them to adhere properly.

11. Gallery Wall

Use removable adhesive hooks or picture-hanging strips to display a curation of photos, prints, or illustrations. Display your favorite pieces in a unique composition that reflects your style. Think outside of the box- unframed snapshots become an art installation when styled as a photo collage. Mix and match frame styles, sizes, and artwork to add depth.

Pro Tips for a Great Gallery Wall:

1. Select photos or artwork that looks cohesive together.
2. Add dimension with three-dimensional elements like floating shelves, wall-mounted plants or shadow boxes.
3. You can also repeat themed photos like a vacation in matching frames.
4. Postcards, polaroids and small prints also add visual interest.

12. Shelves

Shelves add visual interest and functional storage to your space. Choose a freestanding option to leave your walls damage-free. Use shelves or these handy Command Display Ledges, to display items such as books, plants, or sentimental items or to keep practical items within easy reach.

13. Ceiling Medallion Wall Art Gallery

Ceiling medallions are one of the charming elements of a vintage space. Although traditionally found on the ceiling, medallion clusters in patterns like this are an economical way to add visual interest to walls. New or antique medallions can be transformed into a gallery wall, mirror frames and more. Even better? They’re lightweight enough to hang with command strips.

14. Basketweave Boho Wall

A friend of mine shows how to hang woven baskets in an arrangement to beautify a boring wall and add whimsy, texture and dimension without overwhelming your design. This look goes well with many styles including Boho Chic and Coastal Decor.

15. Standing Mirror Wall

If you add a mirror to any space, the room will instantly feel lighter and brighter. Mirrors reflect light to make spaces feel larger. Try a large mirror as a focal point; and if you want something more permanent, I have 3 methods to how to hang mirrors here. A large leaning mirror will create depth without wall damage or design a statement wall by grouping several mirrors.

16. Paper Art

Use paper to decorate! Paper fans or origami folds come in all kinds of beautiful designs. This folded paper tutorial is a fun way to introduce bright pops of color or a quirky pattern without the fear of over-commiting. Paper art is lightweight enough to hang with glue dots or command strips, making this an easy way to switch up your decor.

17. Wrapping Paper

Wrapping paper can also be a good use! Use painter’s or double-sided removeable tape to adhere to your wall, bookshelf, or cabinets. It’s easy to install and remove. The key to success? Choose a high-quality and thick wrapping paper and spray non-yellowing acrylic sealer to waterproof the paper.

18. Fairy Lights

Add some magic to your space with fairy lights. Lighting adds inviting ambience to your home. Modern string lights come in a plethora of style options to offer creative exploration. Hang them from the ceiling to create a canopy of light or purchase LED strips to outline a focal point. Hanging string lights indoors can easily be accomplished with command-strip hooks or glue dots. For more creative solutions, you can also check out my hanging outdoor string lights guide.

19. Textiles or Tapestries

Loose tapestry wall hangings are lightweight and easy to hang while adding texture and eye appeal. From pennants to patterned tapestries, there’s many options to choose from. Macrame wall hangings and tapestries can instantly take a room from drab to bohemian and fabulous.

20. Tension Rod

A tension rod allows you to hang curtains without drilling into the wall. These rods differ from other curtain rods by using spring pressure, creating a temporary solution ideal for curtains and room dividers. No wall holes needed to display your favorite quilt or vintage scarves without a single screw or nail.

21. Plant Wall

Instantly breathe life into your space by bringing elements of the outdoors in. A plant wall adds a refreshing pop of color while purifying your air. Vertical gardens don’t necessarily require a green thumb. Many plants that flourish in vertical gardens are relatively easy to maintain. Create your plant wall with a simple canvas pocket hanger, eclectic terrariums, or fabric plant hangers.

Tips for no-damage decor:

1. Invest in Sensible Hanging Solutions – Command strips, adhesive hooks, double-sided tape, and removeable glue dots are designed to leave little damage upon removal. 
2. Patch small holes with putty.
3. Document your changes with photos! Take before & after shots to cover your bases for any possible damage claims or disputes.