Decorating Your First Apartment on a Budget: Easy Tips for Lafayette Renters

Written on behalf of Lafayette Gardens Apartments - Apartments for rent in Lafayette LA

Moving into your first place is exciting—especially when that place is one of the comfortable, centrally-located apartments in Lafayette, LA.

But once the keys are in hand, reality sets in pretty quickly: now you

have to decorate it… and usually on a budget.

The good news? Transforming your one-bedroom, two-bedroom, or three-bedroom apartment into a stylish, cozy home doesn’t require designer furniture or a huge investment. With a little creativity and a few renter-friendly tricks, you can turn your space at Lafayette Gardens Apartments into something that feels uniquely yours.

Below are simple, affordable ideas perfect for anyone decorating their first apartment on a budget.

1. Add Color with Removable Wallpaper and Decals

Traditional wallpaper isn’t renter-friendly, but today’s peel-and-stick options absolutely are. Removable wallpaper lets you bring personality into your apartment without damaging walls. Use it to highlight:

• An accent wall in your living room

• The entryway

• Behind open shelving

• Bedroom headboard walls

This is one of the quickest ways to refresh a one bedroom apartment in Lafayette LA without spending much. Many residents even use removable decals to update plain furniture, creating stylish pieces for very

little money.

2. Give Old Furniture a Fresh Start

If buying brand-new furniture doesn't fit the budget (and it rarely does when you’re setting up your first apartment in Lafayette LA), consider refreshing older pieces instead. A simple coat of chalk paint can transform:

• Dressers

• Bookshelves

• Side tables

• Coffee tables

Chalk paint requires minimal prep work—just wipe, lightly sand, and start painting. For durability, seal it with  water-based clear coat. It’s an affordable DIY option that makes even mismatched pieces feel cohesive.

3. Maximize Storage with Multi-Purpose Furniture

Small spaces can get cluttered fast. Whether you’re living in a two-bedroom apartment in Lafayette LA with roommates or enjoying a three bedroom layout with family, smart storage is the key to keeping your home organized.

• Look for multipurpose items such as:

• Storage ottomans

• Trunks that serve as coffee tables

• Armoires used as entertainment centers

• Bedside tables with drawers or shelves

Hidden storage helps your space feel bigger, cleaner, and more functional—without spending a lot on décor.

4. Decorate with Meaningful Words & Personalized Art

You don’t need expensive artwork to make your apartment feel put together. Framed quotes, printed wall art, or personalized pieces can instantly elevate your space.

Choose words or phrases that inspire you. Hang them near your entryway, above your desk, or in your bedroom to create a positive vibe every time you walk in. Personal touches like these are perfect

for making your Lafayette, Louisiana apartment feel like home from day one.

5. Thrift, Repurpose & DIY When You Can

Lafayette has some excellent thrift stores and resale shops where you can find:

• Frames

• Lamps

• Side tables

• Wall art

• Kitchen décor

• Rugs

Pair secondhand finds with small DIY projects, and you can create a beautifully decorated space for a fraction of the cost. Decorating your first apartment on a budget becomes easier—and more fun—when you mix in thrifted treasures.

Start Your New Chapter at Lafayette Gardens Apartments

Whether you're searching for a cozy one-bedroom apartment in Lafayette LA, a spacious two-bedroom, or a flexible three-bedroom layout, Lafayette Gardens Apartments offers comfortable living with a welcoming community atmosphere.

And once you move in, a few budget-friendly decorating ideas are all you need to personalize your new home.

Ready to find your next apartment? Contact our leasing office to learn more about available floor plans and upcoming openings.