This “Cookie-Cutter” Apartment Got the Most Unbelievable Renter-Friendly Makeover

Savanna relocated to Irvine after accepting a new job, and explains that renting instead of owning “made the most sense during that transition.” But she didn’t let being a renter get in the way of designing a home that fits her and her family’s style.

“Over time, I’ve really leaned into making the unit my own through thoughtful design choices, creating a space that feels calm, welcoming, and reflective of me — even within the flexibility of renting,” she writes.

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The final look of the apartment is extra impressive, considering how Savanna describes what the home looked like before they moved in: “Very cookie-cutter and standard — plain white walls, little character, and nothing that felt personal to me or my family.”

Savanna did a lot of updating to each room, but amazingly they were all renter-friendly and budget-conscious changes.

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“I started in the living room, which is the heart of the home, and wanted to tackle the biggest eyesore — textured white walls that felt flat and uninspired. With just plywood panels, stain, and a handful of nails, I transformed them into what looks like built-ins. That project alone cost about $80 and completely changed the feel of the room.”

“From there, I layered in mid-century furniture, eclectic thrifted treasures I’ve revamped, and thoughtful design details inspired by places I’ve traveled. Every update was done with renters in mind — simple changes that can be reversed but still make the space feel completely custom,” Savanna continues.

Now, after only a year of being in the apartment, Savanna describes her home as a “cross between an eclectic boutique hotel and a mid-century modern magazine spread. There’s warmth, character, and originality everywhere you look — from thrifted finds I’ve refreshed to renter-friendly DIYs that give the space a custom feel. It’s immersive, layered, and uniquely ours.”

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• Entryway — Behr “Moroccan Henna”
• Bedroom — Behr “Swiss Coffee”
• Wood Stain — Behr “American Chestnut”

• JÄTTEBO Sofa — IKEA
• Toga Dupe — Amazon
• Coffee Table — DIY
• Carpet — Amazon 

• Dining Table — IKEA
• Vintage Pendant Light — Pepe’s Thrift Store 

• Green Tiles — Amazon 
• Stools — Facebook Marketplace 

• Bedding — Parachute
• Canopy — DIY 
• Throw Pillows — Target 

• Contact Paper — Amazon 

Thanks, Savanna!
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This tour’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.