Floors
If you can't come to an agreement with the landlord, you will have to live with the existing flooring to some degree. If you have a nasty carpet to deal with in the living room, consider purchasing an area rug with a good backing that brings the carpet into sync with your furniture and decor ideas. Depending on the style of carpet, you may also be able to use a blanket. The same goes for hardwoods and laminates. In this case, ensure it has a rubber backing on it to prevent it from sliding out from under you.
Furnishings
Another great way to drowned out undesirable carpet and wall coverings is to detract from these things with your furniture. Boldly colored furniture combined with matching accents is a great way to keep your eye from catching the color of the condo rental's flooring. To build on that sense of 'home', add coordinating throw pillows and other accents to give the room some volume. Fixtures and hardware can also make a big difference when condo renting. Carefully pull them down and replace them with items that are more fashionable. Just remember that you will have to replace anything that is broken and will need to store the originals until you are ready to move out.
Walls
Sometimes you can select muted color schemes and talk to the landlord about your idea to paint you condo rental. This doesn't always work out. Leaning pictures against the wall is a great place to start. Fabric is an easy and interesting solution to the color problems. With your landlord's permission, carefully remove the top molding if there is any and cautiously staple room length fabric to the wall. You might also be able to staple it or use a strip of wood with small finish nails where the wall meets the ceiling.
When it comes to family pictures, stand them up on things such as mantels. Faux flower garland also makes a great border for a space when condo renting. Yet another great idea is to invest in some nice dressing screens to stand up against the wall.
Bathrooms
Generally, one of the most uninspiring rooms in a condo rental is the bathroom. While many times this involves renovating the basic fixtures, this isn't an option when condo renting. Add a skirt around ugly bathroom sinks with tension rods. Water safe decorations can be hung on plain shower walls with products such as a spray adhesive that allows you to re-stick items on the wall. It won't tear off paint and won't stain the slick surface. Items such as standalone organizational systems, wicker baskets, and other items can be added into bathrooms as well to accessorize the space. To add additional color, consider painting these items to add pizzazz.
Condo renting doesn't mean you are doomed to live with the plain appearances of these spaces. Adding your own touch to a condo rental will make you feel comfortable. It may even make it difficult to leave!
About the Author: Christine O'Kelly writes for leading condo rental and apartment property management company, Beal Properties in Chicago. Beal Property, LLC, has more than 80 years experience with condo renting and apartments in Chicago's elite neighborhoods.