Do you need to renovate your holiday apartment but have a limited budget? Whether it’s due to natural wear and tear or simply because the style feels outdated, you might be thinking of giving your rental a fresh new look.
This guide offers several practical tips that you can implement whenever you feel ready to renovate your apartment without investing too much. Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of creativity and good taste to give it the facelift that will win over future guests.
1. Walls: A blank canvas for your creativity
Simply changing the wall colour can completely transform the atmosphere of the apartment—without big expenses. Here are some budget-friendly ideas you can try:
- Paint: Sometimes, just touching up white walls can bring back a fresh feel. Light tones also help make small spaces appear larger. If you’re up for painting it yourself, you’ll save even more, and the result can be very rewarding.
- Peel-and-stick wallpaper: A great alternative if you’re looking for speed. It’s easy to apply, decorative, and can achieve visual effects that would be harder with paint.
- Wall decals: Perfect for giving a wall a creative and personal touch. They work especially well in children’s rooms or kitchens.
2. Furniture: Give it new life without replacing it
Refreshing the furniture can be key to completely changing the look of your holiday rental. And you don’t always need to replace everything: often it’s enough to give new life to what you already have. Try painting or varnishing to refresh their look. A simple option is changing the handles or even using adhesive vinyl—no need to paint.
If a piece is too worn out, consider buying second-hand or outlet furniture. Many big stores have discounted sections where you can find good pieces at low prices. By applying these ideas, you can refresh the space without overspending.
3. Lighting: Create truly special atmospheres
Lighting can make a huge difference in how your apartment feels. To save energy, go for LED lights. Among them, warm light is the best choice—it creates a cosy atmosphere that makes guests feel at home.
You can also add LED strips in strategic spots like behind the headboard or under a cabinet to create subtle and modern lighting effects.
And if you want to add a statement lamp without spending much, check out second-hand stores or outlets. Sometimes you’ll find a gem for a fraction of the price.
4. Textiles: Powerful allies for change
Textiles are a key tool for giving your apartment a makeover without major investment. Here are some ideas:
- Throws and cushions: Adding them to beds or the sofa can totally refresh the space—no need for new furniture.
- Light curtains: Let in natural light and make the space feel larger and brighter. They’re also great for keeping things cool in summer.
- Rugs: Help cover imperfections and add warmth and visual comfort to any room.
5. Flooring: First impressions matter
If your flooring is worn out or has visible flaws, it can negatively impact the apartment’s overall impression. Thankfully, there are practical ways to improve it without a full replacement:
- Click-lock vinyl flooring: Lets you update the floor quickly and cleanly, without construction work.
- Rugs: Add warmth and style while helping hide worn areas.
6. Doors and Wardrobes: Open the door to a new style
Doors and wardrobes also play a big role in how the apartment looks. If they’re worn or their colour no longer matches the overall style, they can make a poor impression. Painting or adding adhesive vinyl is a simple way to refresh them completely.
Another quick and affordable update is replacing the handles with more modern designs. And to add more light and a sense of space, try sticking adhesive mirrors onto wardrobe doors. They’re easy to apply and cheaper than traditional mirrors.
Be hands-on: Handmade touches win hearts
Another great (and already mentioned) option is to DIY small renovations or décor. From painting to creating custom elements like artwork, coat racks, or simple shelves—these handmade details will give your apartment a unique character. Guests will notice and appreciate it!
If you’re thinking of renovating your holiday apartment but don’t know where to start or how much budget you need, AB Apartment Barcelona can help with everything. Contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you!
