5 Amazing Apartments (full of Smart Decor Ideas for Any Space)

Just in case you missed it, This Old House launched a new tumblr blog called This Old APT. The environment is populated by TOH's junior staff and resident apartment-upgrade pros. Here's a round up of some of the amazing apartments we've curated (full of smart decor ideas you can steal for your home). -Tabitha Sukhai, thisoldhouse.com

Shown here: Utilize architectural features in your apartment: A "photo ledge" is a great way to display framed art and photos without putting holes in the wall. See more of this amazing apartment at Cup of Jo.

The Look of Built-In Bookcases for $197
Homeowners Hilary and Dan Delgadillo had a ho-hum living room that lacked architectural character. So Hilary decided to add her own by flanking the window with built-in bookcases. After months of scouring Craigslist for used furniture to incorporate into the design, she found the perfect fit: two solid-pine units with open shelves as well as closed cabinets.

Budget built-ins you can DIY (and un-build when you move)
Budget built-ins you can DIY (and un-build when you move)


Dentil molding, a scalloped valance, and a particleboard back dated the pieces, so she removed them before sanding the units and painting them white. Dan used plywood to build three-sided boxes to extend the height of both shelf units, patching in pieces for the face frame and a false wall that extends the units' width. Wrapping the top and bottom with crown and base molding make them look built-in. Finally, Hilary painted the back of the shelves a nautical blue. You can hack this how-to and un-build your shelving when you leave your apartment. Reblog it!

Andy Warhol's
Andy Warhol's


Take inspiration from this Oyster magazine post (VIA Zillow) about the sale of Andy Warhol's secret apartment, just sold for about $5.5 million. Most landlords will go for a bold paint job is you agree to repaint before you move. You can opt for a dramatic hue on the walls then add white decor elements and furniture to get this look. Reblog it!

Painted brick walls can be gorgeous!
Painted brick walls can be gorgeous!


If you want to go another way with your decor, add pops of bold color to a light, bright, white room as shown here. This wildly popular post from First Home at tumblr showcases a beautiful royal purple and white palette in a space flooded with natural light. Click above to re-blog it!

IKEA: Every apartment dwellers favorite one stop shop
IKEA: Every apartment dwellers favorite one stop shop


This tumblr post from IKEA proves that apartments don't have to look like dorm rooms. This arm chair is one of our favorite pieces ever from the brand. Reblog it and learn how YOU can win $10,000 in IKEA gift cards for an amazing makeover all your own!