If you’re a renter, you may be subject to restrictions on what you can and can’t do to make a space feel like yours. Temporary setups and short-term stays can suffer from a lack of personal design and investment.
With strict rules such as no painting, no hanging items and no making permanent changes, renters need to think outside the box to create a space that feels like their own without risking their deposit. Fortunately, there are several ways that renters can add a little personality to their rental property to make it feel more homely and comfortable.
In this article, we’ll throw out some creative, landlord-approved ideas to help you–renters–do just that.
Area Rugs for Cosiness
Rugs are a sure and easy way to express your personality. They can be heavily textured with rumpled textiles or exhibit geometric patterns and cultural motifs. If your rental has unattractive flooring or is a little worn, our advice is to cover it with a rug of your choice.
Greenlight for Plants
If you really want to add life to your rental, why not bring in the great outdoors? Plants are affordable for making a space feel personal and more like home. Plenty of options are available, whether you prefer low-maintenance plants, such as cacti and succulents, or the seasonal colours of wild floral arrangements.
Pots of herbs on the kitchen window ledge, or if you have the floor space, a miniature palm tree. Plants not only uplift a restrictive space, they also improve the overall air quality–a win-win
Artwork & Photo Displays
If your landlord is against hanging frames, you’ll have to be a little creative and opt for ways that won’t lead to deductions from your deposit. There are quite a few ways to hang artwork without using nails or screws. You can use Velcro strips, adhesive picture hooks and wire systems without leaving a permanent hole.
Once you’re all set up with a landlord-friendly hanging solution, you can personalise your walls with artwork and photo displays. Textured canvas wall art works incredibly well for renters looking to add dimension and perspective to their space.
Don’t shy away from implementing personal elements, such as postcards from your travels, retro movie posters and whatever else reflects your personality.
Colours that Pop
Most rental spaces, more common than not, are decorated in neutral tones so as not to offend potential renters. It makes sense. However, that doesn’t mean you must spend every waking moment in beige despair or grey monotony.
Soft furnishings such as throws, cushions and blankets are a quick and easy way to bring life and character to an otherwise muted space. Uplift neutrality with bold, colourful patterns, or keep it simple with a monochromatic approach.
For long-term renters, you can seasonally swap out your soft furnishings to keep things feeling fresh.
Stylish Lighting
A room’s overall atmosphere can change significantly depending on lighting. Renters shouldn’t overlook how impactful stylish fixtures and ambient lighting can be.
LED string and fairy lights are popular for adding an almost magical charm to a space, whereas contemporary overheads can serve as statement pieces.
Adjustable, smart light bulbs are also a great investment for renters. With smart light bulbs, you have complete control over the ambience of a room with a remote or voice control.
Cosy Rumination Corner
If you’re fortunate enough to have a small alcove in your rental, you could turn it into an area for reading or studying. All you need is a comfortable chair, a cosy blanket for the colder seasons and suitable lighting.
Add a free-standing bookshelf to showcase your collection, a side table for snacks and drinks, and maybe some scented candles for an extra personal touch.
Final Thoughts
In the face of restrictions and conditions, renters have no other choice but to find smart solutions. Making a rental space feel homely doesn’t need to be wrought with challenges, and with a few changes, renters can transform any space into one that isn’t just home–it feels like home, too.
Take these simple but effective ideas and begin creating a space you can proudly call home.