Making a Rental Property Feel Like Home

Moving into a rental property can sometimes feel temporary or impersonal, but with the right touches, you can make it feel like your own cosy haven. Whether you’re renting long-term or short-term, there are numerous ways to personalise your space without violating your lease or making permanent changes. Here’s how you can transform your rental into a home that reflects your style and comfort.

1. START WITH THE BASICS: CLEAN AND DECLUTTER

Before you begin adding personal touches, start with a clean slate. Give your new rental property a thorough clean, even if it looks tidy upon moving in. This allows you to start fresh and feel more connected to your space. Decluttering as you unpack helps you decide what items are essential and which ones you might want to store or discard.

2. EMBRACE TEMPORARY DECOR SOLUTIONS

One of the challenges of renting is that you may not be able to make permanent changes to the property. However, there are plenty of temporary decor solutions that can make a significant impact:

• Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: This is a great way to add personality to a room without damaging the walls. Available in a variety of colours and patterns, peel-and-stick wallpaper is easy to apply and remove when it’s time to move out.
• Removable Wall Decals: For smaller, more specific designs, wall decals are another excellent option. They’re perfect for adding a touch of whimsy or creating an accent wall.
• Command Hooks and Strips: These are lifesavers for hanging pictures, mirrors, and other decor items without putting holes in the walls. They come in various sizes and can hold a surprising amount of weight.

3. PERSONALISE WITH FURNITURE AND LAYOUT

Furniture plays a significant role in making a space feel like home. Even if you can’t paint the walls or replace the flooring, the right furniture can completely transform a room.

• Invest in Versatile Pieces: Choose furniture that can serve multiple purposes, especially in smaller spaces. A sofa bed, an ottoman with storage, or a dining table that doubles as a desk can make your space more functional and personalised.
• Rearrange the Layout: Experiment with different furniture layouts to find what works best for you. Don’t feel confined to the layout that the previous tenant or landlord had. Moving furniture around can make the space feel more tailored to your needs.
• Add Soft Furnishings: Cushions, throws, and rugs can add warmth and comfort to a rental property. These items are easy to change out according to the season or your evolving taste.

4. INCORPORATE PERSONAL ITEMS AND SENTIMENTAL PIECES

Adding personal items is one of the most effective ways to make a rental feel like home. Displaying family photos, cherished mementoes, or artwork that has personal significance can instantly make the space feel more familiar and comforting.

• Photo Displays: Create a gallery wall with framed photos, or use photo shelves to easily swap out pictures without damaging the walls.
• Sentimental Decor: Incorporate items that have sentimental value, such as a quilt from a family member, artwork from a favourite artist, or souvenirs from your travels.
• Mix Old and New: Combining new purchases with items you’ve had for years can help blend your personal history with the new space, making it feel like home.

5. MAXIMISE LIGHT AND SPACE

Lighting and the use of space are crucial in making a home feel warm and inviting. Even if your rental property has limitations, you can make adjustments that improve the overall ambience.

• Layered Lighting: Instead of relying solely on overhead lighting, incorporate floor lamps, table lamps, and fairy lights to create a warm, layered lighting effect. This can make a room feel more cosy and intimate.
• Mirrors: Use mirrors strategically to reflect light and make spaces feel larger. A well-placed mirror can also become a decorative focal point.
• Curtains and Blinds: If your rental comes with basic blinds, consider adding curtains to soften the look and add texture to the room. Choose fabrics and colours that complement your decor.

6. CREATE A FUNCTIONAL AND AESTHETIC KITCHEN

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and even in a rental property, it can be a space where you express your style and make cooking enjoyable.

• Add a Splash of Colour: If painting isn’t an option, consider adding colourful kitchen accessories, such as a patterned rug, bright dish towels, or a statement kettle.
• Maximise Storage: Use stylish storage solutions, like open shelves, hanging racks, or attractive baskets, to keep your kitchen organised and visually appealing.
• Personalise with Small Appliances: Small appliances, like a toaster or coffee maker, in your favourite colour or design, can add a personal touch to the kitchen.

7. MAKE BEDROOMS COSY AND INVITING

Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, a place where you can relax and recharge. Even in a rental, there are ways to make this space feel uniquely yours.

• Bedding and Linens: Invest in high-quality bedding that reflects your style and provides comfort. Layering your bed with different textures, like quilts, blankets, and cushions, can make it more inviting.
• Personal Touches: Incorporate bedside tables with personal items like books, photos, or a lamp that suits your style. A soft rug beside the bed can add a touch of luxury.
• Headboard Alternatives: If your bed doesn’t have a headboard, consider using a large piece of artwork, a tapestry, or a painted accent wall to create a focal point above the bed.

8. TRANSFORM BATHROOMS INTO RELAXING RETREATS

Bathrooms in rental properties are often functional but bland. With a few small changes, you can turn your bathroom into a more relaxing and personal space.

• Shower Curtains and Bath Mats: Choose a shower curtain that reflects your taste, and pair it with a matching bath mat to add colour and personality to the room.
• Storage Solutions: Add stylish storage options like baskets, shelving, or a vanity organiser to keep your bathroom clutter-free and aesthetically pleasing.
• Personalised Touches: Incorporate candles, plants, or decorative soap dispensers to add a spa-like feel to your bathroom.

9. INCORPORATE GREENERY AND NATURE

Plants can breathe life into any space, making it feel more vibrant and homely. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, there are low-maintenance options that can thrive in a rental property.

• Houseplants: Choose plants that are easy to care for and suit the light conditions of your space. Popular options include snake plants, succulents, and peace lilies.
• Herb Gardens: If you love cooking, consider a small indoor herb garden. Fresh herbs like basil, mint, and parsley can add a fresh scent to your kitchen and be a handy addition to your cooking.
• Seasonal Flowers: Fresh flowers can instantly brighten up a room and bring a touch of nature indoors. Change them seasonally to keep your space feeling fresh.

10. CREATE FUNCTIONAL WORK AND STUDY SPACES

With more people working from home, creating a functional and comfortable workspace in your rental is essential. Even if space is limited, there are ways to carve out an area that works for you.

• Desk and Chair: Invest in a good-quality desk and ergonomic chair that will make working from home comfortable. If space is limited, consider a foldable desk or a wall-mounted workspace.
• Organisation: Keep your workspace clutter-free with organisers, trays, and shelving. A tidy desk can help you stay focused and productive.
• Personalisation: Add personal touches to your workspace, such as a favourite mug, inspirational quotes, or a plant to make the area feel more inviting.

11. RESPECT THE RULES, BUT THINK CREATIVELY

Every rental property comes with its own set of rules, often outlined in the lease agreement. While it’s important to respect these rules, there are often creative ways to personalise your space within these constraints.

• Ask for Permission: If you want to make a more permanent change, such as painting a wall or installing shelves, ask your landlord for permission. They may be open to the idea, especially if it improves the property’s value.
• Decorate with Removable Solutions: Use removable hooks, peel-and-stick tiles, and temporary wallpapers to personalise your space without making permanent changes.
• Layering Textures: Use a variety of textures in your decor, such as woollen throws, velvet cushions, and wooden furniture, to add depth and warmth to your rental home.

12. STAY ORGANISED AND ADAPT OVER TIME

As you settle into your rental property, you’ll find that your needs and tastes may evolve. Keep your space organised and be open to adapting your decor and layout over time to reflect these changes.

• Regular Decluttering: Periodically go through your belongings and declutter what you no longer need or use. This helps keep your space feeling fresh and avoids overcrowding.
• Seasonal Changes: Consider changing your decor seasonally. This could be as simple as switching out cushions, throws, and rugs to reflect the time of year.
• Embrace Flexibility: If you find that a certain layout or design choice isn’t working for you, don’t be afraid to change it. Your rental home should evolve with you, making it a place that continues to feel comfortable and personal.