Decorating a rental apartment can be tricky when you have children. You want the space to feel warm, safe, and full of personality, but you also have to respect your landlord’s rules. In Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt, where most apartments come with restrictions on painting or drilling, parents often have to get creative. The goal is to create a child-friendly home that’s practical, flexible, and easy to restore when it’s time to move.
Start with Safe and Flexible Furniture
Before you think about décor, start with furniture that’s safe for children. Avoid sharp corners and heavy pieces that can tip over easily. Opt for round tables, cushioned ottomans, and storage benches.
If your children are toddlers, consider securing large items like shelves and wardrobes with non-drill wall straps that use adhesive anchors. These are available in many local home stores and do not damage walls.
Use Removable Wallpapers and Wall Stickers
Paint might be off-limits in a rental, but your walls don’t have to stay bare. Removable wallpaper is a smart solution for adding character to your child’s room or the living space.
Choose designs with nature, animals, or subtle geometric patterns. For the living room, opt for lighter tones that create an airy feel. In Lagos, where many apartments have limited sunlight, bright wallpaper can make a big difference in mood and energy.
Create Play Zones Without Permanent Changes
Children need space to play, but not every rental allows you to remodel rooms. Use rugs, floor cushions, and soft mats to define play areas. You can also use foldable play tents or portable storage boxes to keep toys organized.
Experts at the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasize that structured play zones help children feel secure and calm, which supports both learning and creativity.
Light Up with Child-Safe Options
Instead of installing new fixtures, use plug-in lights, string lights, or floor lamps with stable bases. Lighting influences children’s mood and sleep, according to research published by the Sleep Foundation. Warm, diffused light in bedrooms supports relaxation, while cooler white light in play areas helps with focus and energy.
Make Storage Fun and Functional
Kids’ toys, clothes, and books multiply quickly. Opt for storage that’s easy to use and safe. Fabric bins, low shelves, and under-bed boxes are great options.
If you live in a smaller apartment, think vertically. Stackable crates or hanging organizers can save floor space while keeping the room neat. The goal is to teach your child independence by making everything within reach.
Add Nature Indoors
Houseplants can improve air quality and bring a sense of calm to any home. The famous Clean Air Study from NASA and further research from institutions like the University of Technology Sydney found that plants like snake plants, peace lilies, and pothos remove harmful toxins from indoor air.
However, when decorating for children, avoid toxic varieties and place pots where small hands can’t pull them down. Even artificial plants can create a refreshing look if natural light is limited.
Personalize with Fabrics and Art
Textiles can instantly transform a space without breaking rental rules. Use curtains, throw pillows, and rugs in your child’s favorite colors. You can also frame their drawings or family photos with removable hooks.
According to child psychologists, personalized environments help children feel more attached to their home, even when it’s a temporary space.
Choose Durable and Washable Materials
Children spill, climb, and test the limits of furniture. Use washable slipcovers, stain-resistant rugs, and easily cleanable surfaces. This not only makes maintenance easier but also ensures your deposit is secure when you move out.
Design Bedrooms for Rest
Children’s bedrooms should be calm, not overstimulating. Choose light colors, soft bedding, and minimal distractions. Place the bed away from the window or direct noise sources.
A study from the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that a well-arranged sleeping space improves emotional regulation and reduces bedtime resistance in young children.
Leave Room for Growth
Children grow fast, and so should their environment. Keep décor flexible. Avoid overly themed designs that your child might outgrow in a year. Use removable wall decals or easily changeable bedding to update the look as they mature.
Designing a rental apartment with kids in mind doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to focus on safety, flexibility, and creativity. Think of your home as a living space that adapts to your family’s needs.
Even within the limits of rental agreements, there’s plenty of room to create a nurturing, beautiful environment where your children can thrive.
