Renting a home or apartment shouldn’t stop you from expressing your personal style, especially when it comes to displaying your art collection. With a bit of creativity and some renter-friendly techniques, you can showcase your favourite pieces without worrying about your deposit. Here are five simple and affordable ideas to fill your space with art while keeping your walls in pristine condition.
1. Use a Picture Ledge for Flexible Displays
If you’re a fan of the gallery wall look but hesitant to make a lot of holes, a picture ledge is your best friend. With just a few screws, you can install a ledge that allows you to display a rotating selection of art, photography, and prints. Opt for a white ledge against white walls for a seamless look that highlights your artwork’s colours and details.
Picture ledges aren’t just for hanging frames. Wider ledges or floating shelves can be styled with small sculptures, plants, or personal mementos to create a dynamic display. They’re particularly effective in small spaces where wall space is limited, yet you want to maximise your art collection’s impact.
For a budget-friendly option, check out places like IKEA, where you can find ledges starting at around £10.
2. Embrace Temporary Solutions
If your rental agreement forbids nails, don’t worry—there are plenty of other ways to hang your art. Washi tape, with its variety of colours and patterns, is perfect for creating a fun, temporary gallery with art prints or photos. It’s easy to apply and remove, leaving no residue on your walls.
For heavier pieces, try Command hooks or picture hanging strips. These renter-friendly options are designed to hold up framed art, prints, and photography without damaging walls. Just be sure to attach them to the back of the frame, not the artwork itself, to ensure everything remains in pristine condition.
3. Lean Large Art for Impact
Want to make a bold statement with your art? Leaning larger pieces against the wall can create a dramatic effect with zero nails involved. This method works beautifully with oversized paintings or statement art photography, instantly adding personality to your space.
For a more layered look, try propping medium and smaller artworks on tables, consoles, or mantels. This approach not only adds depth to your decor but also allows you to easily rearrange your pieces whenever you fancy a change.
4. Get Creative with Easels
Easels aren’t just for artists—they can also be a stylish way to display art in your home. A freestanding easel can elevate a favourite painting or large print, adding an artistic flair to any room.
For smaller works, mini-easels are perfect for showcasing pieces on a side table, bedside table, or even in the kitchen.
This versatile display option is perfect for renters who want to add character to their space without committing to wall hangings.
5. Show Off Art on Shelves
Bookshelves, kitchen shelves, and built-ins are often overlooked as prime spots for displaying art. Small framed works, original drawings, and art prints can add texture and interest to your shelves, turning them into mini galleries that enhance every room.
Displaying art on shelves also makes it easy to switch things around whenever you feel like it. Mix and match pieces to keep your decor fresh and personalised without ever touching a hammer.
At Watergate Art, we believe that art should be accessible to everyone, whether you own your home or are renting. These tips are just the beginning—explore our latest collections to find the perfect pieces that fit your style and space. If you need more personalised advice, our friendly and knowledgeable team at is here to help you every step of the way, offering a complimentary art advisory service.
Complimentary Art Commissioning Service
Commissioning art is a meaningful and highly personalised way to acquire artwork. It’s an experience that allows you to be closely involved in shaping a piece perfectly suited to your vision and space.
If you really like a work of art but it's already sold or you are looking to get something a little more personalised, we offer a complimentary art commissioning service for free. We go beyond simple introductions, acting as your dedicated guide and intermediary, ensuring a seamless collaboration between you and the artist.
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