The following article was submitted by Abby Holt of craftability.org. We appreciate her sending this to us.

Visit the Tanner’s Marketplace show for unique and vintage antiques and collectibles and retro repurposed treasures, as well as comfy winter crafts!

The first step in creating a more relaxing space is to upgrade the lighting. Skip the harsh overhead lighting you find in most rentals, and opt for table lamps. Warm light bulbs create a more relaxing atmosphere, and placing floor lamps in the darkest part of the room, such as the corners, makes a space appear bigger. Antique stores and shows like Tanners Marketplace are great for finding vintage and quirky lighting to help make your space your own.

There are only a few things you can do about the cabinetry. Few landlords will allow you to paint them, but making other changes to the cabinetry is the fastest way to upgrade an area like the kitchen. Something as simple as updating the hardware can make a drastic difference. Changing cabinet pulls lets you add your own personal style to the room with a pop of color or a unique design. The available options are huge, from sleek and shiny to rustic. You are sure to find the perfect fit for you. If you are crafty you can even make your own. Stash the old hardware somewhere until you decide to move.

When you pick out furniture pieces, make versatility your goal. Most renters do not know where they will live next, and choosing pieces that fit perfectly in your current space could make decorating at your next place more difficult. If you like to entertain and need plenty of seating, a sectional sofa is a great option. Choose a modular one that allows you to adjust the shape. Customized pieces are great, but avoid constructing anything to fit specifically into a single area. This is where antique or vintage furniture found at places like the Tanners Marketplace Antique Show is perfect. You can find eclectic pieces you won't find in the department stores for usually less money.

Anyone with children knows that their toys can quickly overtake your home. Giving your kids a play area also gives toys a home. If you have a spare bedroom, turn it into a playroom. If you are working with limited space, use a rug to distinguish a play corner in the living room or a bedroom.  You can also use drapery to define a space or just soften a harsh wall and add a touch of color.

Colors can make us feel happy or sad, and they can make us feel hungry or relaxed. These reactions are rooted in psychological effects, biological conditioning and cultural imprinting. This website has a great explanation on the how and why of colors. Click here for 99 designs website

Working from home comes with many benefits, but sometimes it is hard to separate work and personal life. Create a separate office space that is free of potential distractions. It could be a spare room or a spot in the bedroom with good lighting. Get ergonomic furniture and desktop organizers to help you stay productive. 

Whether you are looking for small, budget-friendly ways to change the look of your rental or thinking about a complete overhaul, you have options. The first step should always be to create a plan. Once you know what you need, you can decide if your current space works for you or if it's time to find a new rental or home.