Renting has its perks – flexibility, lower costs, and the ability to live in desirable locations. But one downside is often the lack of personalization and the feeling of truly making a space your own. Many landlords have strict rules about what tenants can and cannot do to their rental properties, and it can be challenging to inject your personality and style into a temporary space. However, there are clever ways to add character and charm without violating your lease agreement or damaging the property. In this article, we’ll explore some rental-friendly design hacks that will help you personalize your space without making any permanent changes.
Start with Removable Wallpaper
One of the easiest and most effective ways to transform a rental is by using removable wallpaper. This product comes in countless designs, from bold patterns to subtle textures, and it can be applied to any wall for instant impact. The best part? It peels off easily without leaving residue or damaging the paint underneath. Look for brands that are made from fabric and use a water-activated adhesive, which are easier to apply and remove. With removable wallpaper, you can create a feature wall, add interest to a boring hallway, or update old kitchen cabinets.
Adorn Your Walls with Art
Artwork is a powerful way to express your style and fill your rental with things you love. Create a gallery wall of your favorite prints, photographs, or paintings. Lean larger pieces against the wall instead of hanging them, or use picture rails for an on-trend display. If you’re worried about damaging the walls, there are plenty of damage-free hanging solutions available, such as removable adhesive hooks or putty. Don’t forget to add plants or floral arrangements for a pop of color and a touch of nature.
Get Creative with Furniture
Choose furniture that reflects your personality and don’t be afraid to mix and match styles and eras. Vintage and second-hand pieces can add unique character to a space, and they’re often more affordable than new items. If you’re not allowed to paint the walls, bring color and pattern through statement furniture, such as a bold sofa or a brightly painted dresser. You can also hack rental-friendly pieces, such as IKEA furniture, to give them a custom look with contact paper, new hardware, or paint.
Define Spaces with Rugs
Area rugs are a renter’s best friend when it comes to defining spaces and adding color and pattern. If you have an open-plan living area, use rugs to create distinct zones for the living room, dining room, and entranceway. Rugs can also be layered over less-than-desirable rental flooring to hide ugly patterns or stains and create a more cohesive look. When choosing rugs, consider washable options, especially for high-traffic areas, as they’re easier to keep clean and can be taken with you when you move.
Add Personality with Accessories
The devil is in the details, so have fun with throw pillows, blankets, lamps, and decorative objects. These smaller items can be easily packed up and moved, so go wild with colorful cushions, quirky table lamps, and interesting objets d’art. Layer textures and patterns to create a cozy and inviting space, and don’t be afraid to mix and match styles to create a unique and personalized look. Change up the accessories with the seasons or as your tastes evolve to keep your rental feeling fresh and new.
Temporary Backsplashes and Countertops
If your rental kitchen leaves a lot to be desired, consider adding a temporary backsplash using peel-and-stick tiles or a removable wallpaper designed for kitchens and bathrooms. These can usually be wiped clean and will withstand the humidity and splashes of the kitchen. You can also cover up outdated countertops with contact paper or a roll-out product designed for this purpose, creating a more modern and cohesive look.
Hide Eyesores with Style
Every rental has its eyesores, from unsightly radiators to ugly fuse boxes. Instead of trying to ignore them, embrace these features and turn them into design elements. For example, you can disguise a radiator by building a simple cover and topping it with a shelf to display plants or artwork. Boxy air-conditioning units can be hidden with a custom-made cover that blends into your decor. With a bit of creativity, you can make these necessary evils part of your unique style.
Enhance Natural Light
Natural light can make a huge difference in the ambiance of your rental, so find ways to enhance it. Sheer curtains or blinds will let in more sunlight while still providing privacy. Add mirrors across from windows to reflect light and make spaces feel larger and brighter. If your rental has dark corners, consider using remote-controlled LED light strips, which are easy to install and can be taken down when you move out.
Embrace the Charm of Rentals
Remember that renting doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style or personality. Embrace the unique features and quirks of your rental, whether it’s an old fireplace, high ceilings, or a quirky floorplan. By highlighting these elements and adding your personal touches, you can create a space that feels truly yours, even if it’s only temporary. With a bit of creativity and rental-friendly design hacks, you’ll be well on your way to a stylish and welcoming home.
Don’t Forget the Outdoors
If your rental has outdoor space, such as a balcony, patio, or yard, be sure to make the most of it. Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere with outdoor furniture, string lights, and potted plants. Even a small balcony can become an extension of your living space with a bistro set, some cushions, and a little greenery. Enjoying the outdoors is a great way to boost your mood and make your rental feel like home.
Consider Temporary Flooring
If your rental has outdated or less-than-desirable flooring, there are temporary solutions that can refresh the look without replacing it permanently. Click-together flooring made from bamboo or vinyl can be installed over existing floors and easily taken up when you move out. Large area rugs or floor coverings can also be used to disguise ugly floors and create a more cohesive look throughout your space.
Use Contact Paper and Washi Tape
Contact paper and washi tape are renter’s best friends when it comes to transforming surfaces without causing damage. Use contact paper to cover countertops, line shelves and drawers, or create a unique backsplash. Washi tape comes in countless colors and patterns and can be used to create decorative frames, borders, and designs on walls, furniture, and stairs. Both of these products are easy to apply and remove, making them ideal for temporary updates.
Keep an Open Mind About Storage
Rentals often lack storage, so get creative with solutions that don’t involve permanent changes to the property. Look for stylish freestanding wardrobes, shelves, and cabinets that can be easily moved from one home to the next. Over-the-door organizers, hanging shoe racks, and under-bed storage containers are also great for maximizing space. With a bit of ingenuity, you can create functional and efficient storage without damaging the walls or floors.
Curate a Mobile Garden
Bringing the outdoors in is a great way to add life and personality to your rental, but it can be challenging if you’re not allowed to make permanent changes. Instead of planting directly into the ground or building raised beds, opt for portable planters and pots that can be easily moved. Hang plants from the ceiling or place them on shelves and windowsills to create an indoor jungle. When it’s time to move, your mobile garden can come with you.
Remember, the beauty of renting is that you’re not tied down, so embrace the freedom to experiment with your style and try out new design ideas. With these rental-friendly design hacks, you can create a space that reflects your unique personality and tastes, all while abiding by the rules of your lease agreement. Happy decorating!