Renting a property often comes with limitations - strict landlords, neutral walls, and a general lack of personalisation. But just because you don’t own the place doesn’t mean it can’t feel like home. Whether you’re planning to stay for a short period or settling in for the long term, there are plenty of ways to make your rental feel warm, inviting, and truly yours - without breaking any tenancy rules.
Here’s how to transform a rented house into a home you love.
Personalise with soft furnishings
One of the easiest ways to make a rental feel like home is through soft furnishings. Since most landlords won’t allow you to paint or make permanent changes, fabrics can add warmth, colour, and personality without leaving a trace.
Rugs: If you dislike the flooring, a large area rug can instantly transform a space. It’s also perfect for covering old carpets or cold tiles.
Cushions and throws: Layering different textures and colours with cushions and throws can make a rental feel more inviting and personalised.
Curtains or blinds: Swapping out standard-issue blinds for your own curtains (and storing the originals) can make a huge difference to the overall feel of the space.
Bonus tip: Use removable Velcro strips or tension rods if you’re not allowed to drill curtain rods into the wall.
Add your own lighting
Rental properties often come with harsh overhead lighting or outdated fixtures. Luckily, lighting is an easy fix!
Lamps and fairy lights: Table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights can create a softer, cosier atmosphere without needing to change any fixtures.
Smart bulbs: Swap out existing bulbs for smart LED bulbs, which let you adjust the brightness and colour to suit your mood.
Battery-powered wall lights: If you can’t install permanent fixtures, stick-on wall lights or plug-in sconces add a stylish touch without damaging walls.
Decorate the walls - without painting or damaging them
Blank walls can make a rental feel cold and impersonal, but you don’t need to leave them bare.
Command strips and hooks: These allow you to hang artwork, mirrors, and wall decor without leaving holes or marks.
Peel-and-stick wallpaper: If your landlord allows minor temporary changes, removable wallpaper or decals can instantly add character to a space.
Leaning art and mirrors: If you’re not allowed to hang anything, lean large framed prints or mirrors against the wall for a chic, effortless look.
Bonus tip: Washi tape or poster strips are great for creating DIY wall art without damaging paint.
Introduce plants and greenery
Nothing makes a place feel more alive than houseplants. Even if you don’t have a garden, adding greenery can make a rental feel fresh, homely, and stylish.
Low-maintenance plants like cacti, snake plants, and succulents are perfect for beginners. While hanging plants or wall-mounted planters work well if you have limited space. Alternatively, fresh flowers instantly brighten a room and add a welcoming feel.
Bonus tip: If you struggle with real plants, high-quality faux plants can create the same effect without the upkeep.
Swap out hardware and fixtures (temporarily)
Sometimes, it’s the small details that make a rental feel generic. If allowed, switching out handles, knobs, and taps can make a huge difference.
Cupboard handles and drawer knobs: Replace basic handles with stylish ones (just keep the originals to switch back when you move out).
Shower head upgrade: A high-quality shower head can instantly improve your bathroom experience and make it feel more like home.
Light switch covers: Swap boring plastic covers for decorative or metallic options.
Bonus tip: If you can’t make changes, brass adhesive sheets can mimic the look of updated hardware without replacing anything.
Create a cosy scent and atmosphere
Scent plays a huge role in making a house feel like home. Rental properties often have a neutral or unfamiliar smell, but you can easily change that.
Candles and wax melts: Choose scents that make you feel comfortable and relaxed.
Reed diffusers: Ideal for adding a continuous fragrance without open flames.
Essential oil diffuser: Adds both scent and moisture to the air, making the space feel more inviting.
Bonus tip: Baking something delicious (like cookies) can instantly make a place feel warm and homely!
Use multi-functional furniture
If your rental is small or minimally furnished, consider investing in multi-functional furniture to maximise comfort and space.
Foldable dining tables: Perfect for small spaces, giving you flexibility when needed.
Storage ottomans: Serve as extra seating while doubling as storage.
Bookshelves as room dividers: Ideal for open-plan spaces where you want to create separate areas.
Bonus tip: If you don’t want to buy new furniture, check out charity shops or Facebook Marketplace for affordable second-hand options.
Personalise with meaningful items
Finally, the best way to make a rental feel like yours is by filling it with personal touches.
Display photos and mementoes: Use frames, corkboards, or digital displays to showcase your favourite memories.
Incorporate your style: Whether you love boho, minimalist, or vintage decor, bring in elements that reflect your personality.
Create a cosy corner: Whether it’s a reading nook, a coffee station, or a dedicated workspace, having a personalised area makes a place feel like home.
Summary
Just because you’re renting doesn’t mean you can’t create a home that reflects your personality and style. By adding soft furnishings, personal touches, and temporary upgrades, you can make any rental feel like it truly belongs to you - without breaking any tenancy rules and getting yourself potentially evicted.
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