Mixing Thrift Store Scores With A Few New Finds – Making my Rental Feel Like Home

Moving into my 1920s rental was like finding a hidden gem—full of character, already updated, and just waiting for my personal touch. The charm? Through the roof. The possibilities? Endless. My budget? Let’s just say it was more “DIY and dollar deals” than “dream home makeover.” So, like any decor-obsessed renter with expensive taste and a ramen-noodle budget, I got creative—mixing thrift store scores with a few new finds until my living room finally felt like me.

Work With What You’ve Got

First things first, I had to accept that this house already had a personality. With its classic archways that soften and balance the interior and gorgeous hardwood floors, it didn’t need much—just a little love and a few well-placed accents. My goal? Keep the vintage charm but make it feel fresh, cozy, and, most importantly, me.

Play a Game of Furniture Tetris

Before I spent a dime, I moved stuff around—a lot. Turns out, shuffling furniture can make a room feel brand new (and it’s free, which is my favorite price). I centered my cozy seating area around a coffee table that had the perfect amount of “worn but in a cool way” energy, and the whole room felt more put together immediately.

Old Meets New (AKA Thrifted Gold + Budget-Friendly Finds)

Now for the fun part—mixing old and new like a decor DJ. I found a vintage carved-wood sideboard with a mirrored backsplash that looked like it belonged in a formal dining room (actually it was up for grab from an emptied-out storage unit) and paired it with my modern couch.

Cozy It Up with Textiles

Nothing says “please come in and stay forever” like the right textiles. A couple handmade tables with soft throw pillows and blankets created the perfect “lived-in but stylish” look. Bonus: all of it was renter-friendly and budget-approved.

Let’s Get Personal

Wall hangings? Check. Thrifted knick-knacks? Check. A mix of framed mud cloth pieces and pillows for the couch? Absolutely. This space needed personality, so I pulled together pieces that felt like me—a little old, a little new, some original artwork (by yours truly), and a whole lot of character.

Greenery = Instant Life

No space is complete without plants (because they make you look like you have your life together, even when you don’t).

Final Thoughts: Home Is What You Make It

This whole process reminded me that decorating doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. A mix of creativity, secondhand treasures, and a few modern staples made my 1920s rental feel like home—without blowing my budget.

Got a favorite thrift store score? Tell me about it in the comments—I love a good secondhand success story!