Creating a homely atmosphere in your rented living space is crucial. That’s where our renter-friendly interior tips come in. It’s more than just where you lay your head, it’s about moulding your comfortable haven where you can relax, be yourself, and find tranquillity amid life’s daily hustle and bustle.
However, making a space your own can be difficult when you don’t have carte blanche to decorate exactly as you’d like. When renting, there are many ways to make your house a home and add a touch of your personality.
Here are some practical tips for renters to add a personal touch to their homes, while staying within the guidelines set out in most tenancy agreements.
First, review your letting agreement
Before making any decorating decisions, carefully review your lease agreement. Some landlords may have specific rules or restrictions regarding painting, drilling holes, or using items like candles and decorative lights.
Understanding these guidelines will help you avoid potential issues and ensure you are complying with the terms of your lease. If you need any help with this, your property manager, or landlord, should be able to let you know which rules apply.
Temporary wall decor
Embrace removable and temporary wall decor options. There are a plethora of options for renters when it comes to removable wall decor. For example, you can use adhesive hooks, removable wallpaper, or peel-and-stick decals to add personality to your walls without causing damage.
These options are easy to apply and remove, leaving no marks behind, and are a great renter-friendly option.
Area rugs and floor mats
To add warmth and colour to your rented property, why not enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space by adding area rugs or floor mats? Not only do they protect the existing flooring, but they also provide an opportunity to introduce colours and textures of your choosing.
Remember to select rugs that can be easily rolled up and taken with you when you move as leaving them behind may incur a cleaning or removal fee.
Furniture slipcovers
If the existing furniture doesn’t match your style, consider using removable and customisable slipcovers. This is a cost-effective and non-permanent solution that allows you to change the look of your furniture without violating any guidelines.
Slipcovers come in various styles and colours to suit your preferences.
Creative use of lighting
Upgrade the lighting in your rental with stylish, temporary fixtures such as floor lamps and table lamps. This way, you can enhance the ambience without requiring any changes to the property’s wiring.
Opt for options that can be easily moved or taken down when you move out without leaving any marks. Your landlord may also want to have electrical items PAT tested to ensure they are safe for the building.
Statement furniture
If your flat is unfurnished, why not invest in statement furniture pieces that reflect your personal style?
Since furniture is generally movable, you can take these items with you to your next home. Consider bold colours or unique designs that make a statement without altering the property permanently. If your accommodation is furnished, your landlord may be willing to swap items of furniture from your property to free up space for items of your own furniture, although, you must coordinate the safe return of these items at the end of your tenancy.
Soft furnishings
You can transform the look of your living space with soft furnishings such as cushions, throws, and decorative pillows. These items are easy to switch out and can instantly update the colour scheme or theme of a room.
Indoor plants and greenery
Bring life to your rental property by incorporating indoor plants that you like. Most landlords appreciate the addition of greenery, and it’s a great way to enhance the visual appeal of your space without making any structural changes. Select low-maintenance plants to make caring for them a breeze.
You should also ensure your greenery isn’t touching any walls, nor are your wet pots touching windowsills as this can lead to dampness and the deterioration of woodwork over time.
Remember to ask for permission
If you have a specific decoration or improvement in mind that goes beyond the guidelines set out in your lease, don’t hesitate to ask your landlord for permission. Some landlords may be open to certain changes, especially if they enhance the property’s value or aesthetics.
