Lighting

• Take advantage of any natural light that enters the basement apartment. Sheer curtains accent the windows without blocking light or creating a heavy look that comes with darker fabrics. A mirror hung on the opposite wall of the window reflects the light, creating a brighter environment. Add lamps at strategic points around the apartment to brighten up these areas and provide task lighting.
  
  

Color Scheme

• A light color scheme creates a more open feel in a basement apartment that is otherwise dark or cave-like. Keep the walls, furniture and other large pieces as light as possible. This creates the illusion of a taller ceiling and a larger room. Dark colors work well as accents to emphasize certain decorative pieces in the collection.
  
  

Walls

• Check with the landlord to determine if painting is allowed. If so, choose a light color that fits your personality and the overall desired tone for the space. Add splashes of color to the walls with artwork. To save on the budget, purchase large artist canvases and paint them on your own. Select a few bright colors and paint stripes, circles or other geometric shapes on the canvases. Hanging large pieces of fabric on the walls offers another color option for a basement apartment. Vinyl wall stickers are popular and offer a removable wall decoration option.
  
  

Accents

• Bring the outdoors into the space to reduce the dungeon feeling often associated with basement apartments. Large plants offer a simple option for nature-inspired decor. If natural light is limited, choose silk plants and flowers with a realistic look. Choose decorative items such as vases, coffee table books and candles that fit the overall tone of the apartment. Accent the floor with an area rug in bright colors that coordinate with the rest of the room.