The Easy Swap That Can Instantly Make A Rental Look Luxurious

With so many rules and restrictions in rental agreements these days, it can be tough to find creative ways to make your space feel like your own — especially when you can't even change the paint color on the walls. While upgrades like new light fixtures or incorporating temporary wallpaper — one of HGTV star Nate Berkus's top tips for making a rental space feel like home – are popular, many people overlook one simple change that can make a big impact: swapping out those drab faux-wood vertical blinds for an elegant, flowing curtain. 

From fabrics and hardware to colors and patterns, there are a few key details to think about when buying curtains for your rental space. If you're not quite sure where to start, the most important thing to remember is that your curtains should tie in with your home's existing decor. A foolproof approach is to choose curtains in the same color family as your walls so they blend in seamlessly while still having a subtle contrast. An example of this would be choosing curtains a few shades darker or lighter than your walls. For hardware, it's best to have it complement your decorative accents. If your space features warm browns and golds, opt for brass or gold rings with a matching rod. If you have more black or gray accents, on the other hand, black or silver hardware would work best. 

When deciding on the best type of curtains for your home, it's important to consider which room you'll be hanging them in. For living rooms, linen curtains are a great option because they let natural light shine through – making them especially perfect for smaller rentals where brightness helps the space feel bigger and more open. For kitchens, where windows are often placed above countertops, you'll want the same airy effect with less fabric. Roman shades made of light materials like linen or bamboo – such as these CHICOLOGY Bamboo Roman Shades – can let in plenty of light without getting in the way.

Bedrooms can be trickier because you want to let light in during the day and keep it out during the night. This is where layering comes in. To successfully layer your curtains, simply hang blackout drapes over sheer panels. For an elevated touch, consider motorized blackout curtains controlled by remote or switch — a simple upgrade that can make your room feel like a high-end hotel. To make curtains look their most elegant, HGTV's Nate Berkus recommends hanging your drapery as high as possible. "I'm not a fan of draperies mounted right above the window frame," he explained on Instagram. "They should come from the top of the wall, or at least the highest point."