Using IKEA to make a rental look like a home...
Stores like IKEA often have great pieces for unbeatable prices if you are able to look past the college dorm classics! Lately they have been debuting new pieces and finishes that have a high end looks at IKEA prices. See below for a list of tips to transform a rental with simple items that can all be found at IKEA.
The always classic MALM bed now comes in a White Oak Stained Veneer. Many local stores do not have this in stock, but it was well worth the cost of shipping for the higher-end look this finish gives you.
Switching out cheap-looking and often impractical stock lighting is a relatively easy way to make a huge impact in a rental.
We love these LEDING track light, which come in 3 and 5 light variations and cost only $20-30, but look infinitely chicer than the original lighting. (Just remember to turn off the electricity before switching out hard-wired light fixtures--and if you don't know how to do it, get help!)
After light fixtures, another large expense in a new home is window treatments. It often doesn't seem worth the effort and price to outfit your rental with custom window treatments, but the KVARTEL track system is changing that! We have installed these on the wall or from the ceiling with draperies, panel curtains, and as room dividers, and have found it the easiest and most affordable drapery solution out there.
Check out the KVARTAL product guide for detailed buying information.
Using items for something other than there intended use is another great way to find storage solutions.
The most obvious way we implement this is by using IKEA's excellent kitchen cabinets for custom office storage, something we have been doing for years to great effect.
Whenever possible, it is far less expensive that having custom cabinetry made, with the bonus of being able to moved to a new location with you.