The kitchen is often the heart of the home, a place where you can express creativity, savor delicious meals, and gather with loved ones. However, making your kitchen feel like your own can be challenging when you're renting. 

At RPM Living, we understand the importance of loving where you live - even if you don’t own it. Here are some renter-friendly tips to help you create a kitchen that’s functional, stylish, and uniquely yours without permanent changes.

Personalize with Interchangeable Décor

Why It Works

Adding personal touches through interchangeable décor can instantly refresh your kitchen without making permanent changes. Think of items like centerpiece trays on coffee tables, dining tables, islands, and more, or even incorporating more leafy houseplants into your decor that can move around easily.

How to Do It

• • Choose products that suit your style and the existing color scheme of your kitchen.
• • Adopt houseplants that are typically low maintenance when it comes to light type and watering frequency, so they can thrive in any environment you need them for!.

Recommended Options

Centerpiece Trays

Easy to design and personalize, perfect for adding a splash of color or pattern.

Houseplants

Great for adding a touch of color and life, as well as brightening up a dull space.

Increase Storage with Renter-Friendly Solutions

Why It Works

Creating additional storage space is essential for keeping your kitchen organized. Opt for renter-friendly solutions like freestanding shelves, over-the-door organizers, and stackable bins that don’t require any drilling or permanent fixtures.

How to Do It

• • Use freestanding shelving units to add extra storage without making any permanent modifications.
• • Over-the-door organizers can add storage on the back of pantry or cabinet doors.
• • Stackable bins are great for maximizing space in cupboards or on countertops.

Recommended Options

Freestanding Shelves

These can be placed against any wall and moved as needed.

Over-the-Door Organizers

Perfect for storing cleaning supplies, spices, or snacks.

Brighten Up with Battery-Powered Lighting

Why It Works

Good lighting can make a big difference in the functionality and atmosphere of your kitchen. Battery-powered lights, such as puck lights or LED strips, are easy to install and remove, providing a bright and welcoming space without needing any electrical work.

How to Do It

• • Choose battery-operated puck lights or LED strips that can be easily attached to cabinets or walls with adhesive.
• • Position the lights under cabinets or on walls to illuminate your workspace or create ambient lighting.
• • Use command strips or adhesive hooks to avoid any damage to surfaces.

Recommended Options

Battery-Powered Puck Lights

Compact and easy to install, perfect for adding task lighting.

LED Light Strips

Flexible and easy to place, ideal for under-cabinet lighting.

Use Removable Hooks and Racks for Organization

Why It Works

Removable hooks and racks can significantly improve the organization and functionality of your kitchen without causing any damage. They are versatile and can be used for hanging utensils, pots, pans, or even decorative items.

How to Do It

• • Choose strong, removable hooks that can support the weight of kitchen items.
• • Attach hooks under cabinets, on walls, or inside cabinet doors to maximize space.
• • Use magnetic or adhesive racks to store spices, utensils, or other small items.

Recommended Options

Command Hooks

Available in various sizes and strengths, ideal for hanging kitchen tools.

Magnetic Spice Racks

Great for keeping spices organized and within reach.

Opt for Portable and Stylish Kitchen Islands

Why It Works

A portable kitchen island can provide extra counter space and storage, making it a great addition for rental kitchens. These islands are moveable and don’t require any permanent installation, offering flexibility and functionality.

How to Do It

• • Choose a portable island that fits your kitchen’s dimensions and style.
• • Use it as an additional prep area, storage unit, or even a dining space.
• • Move the island as needed to make the most of your kitchen layout.

Recommended Options

Rolling Kitchen Cart

Easy to move and provides additional storage and counter space.

Butcher Block Rolling Island

Adds a warm and durable surface for meal prep.

For more recommendations to help find your dream apartment at one of our RPM Living communities across the US, check out our Communities page.

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