4 Ways to Dress Up a Rented Home for the Holidays

Apartments and townhomes can be challenging to decorate at Christmas and other holidays, with limited space, storage constraints and landlord restrictions (no holes in the walls!). But a little creativity can go a long way.

Improvise in Small Areas

In the compact entry, a homemade peg rail that usually holds backpacks becomes a "mantel" for stockings. Over the dresser, magnolia branches and a strand of blue beads perk up an evergreen garland.

Use Strippable Sticker Tape

FrogTape and double-stick tape safely adhere snazzy Serena and Lily wallpaper to the wall—a quick fix for renters that's strippable (and reusable if you move). On the china cabinet, cake stands elevate a collection of white ceramic houses.

Keep the Color Scheme Simple

Carrying one color scheme through a home creates continuity, especially in a more modest space. Here, hverything comes back to mixed blues and coppery browns. The holiday decor leans heavily on ribbon and echoes the home's year-round palette— a good strategy when there's limited storage for knickknacks or seasonal swaps.

Aim for a Clean, Open Look

In the living room, basic Ikea drapes customized with blue tassel trim from Etsy flank the tree. Hanging the panels a little tall and wide gives the illusion of an even larger window. The wicker ottoman hides toys and kid clutter.