How to Personalise a Rented Property
Renting a property doesn’t mean you have to live in a sea of bland off-whites to keep your landlord happy. With approximately 4.6 million households in the private rented sector, according to the English Housing Survey, there are countless renters just like you looking to add their own style to their space.
Here are some of the best ways to give your rented home some personality without compromising on landlord-friendly design.
1. Bring in Biophilic Design
Greenery can make a huge impact in a neutral-toned space. If you’re after an elegant touch, try an orchid to introduce a pop of colour. For a more dramatic, tropical vibe, an Areca Palm offers lush greenery and grows to an impressive size. Not great with plants? No worries. A hardy spider plant might be your ideal match. Whatever you choose, indoor plants are a fantastic way to add warmth, life, and texture to your home.
2. Make Crockery Count
Incorporate colour and culture with unique crockery that doubles as décor. Think copper accents reminiscent of the Far East or intricate Moorish patterns for that exotic edge. If vintage chic is more your style, create a charming tearoom aesthetic with decorative serving bowls, platters, and tea sets displayed on a dresser or as part of a table setting.
3. Statement Art That Speaks to You
Personal art pieces can completely transform a room. Large canvases make an instant impact, while minimizing the number of wall fixings you’ll need to deal with later. Prefer a gallery-style collection? Opt for a frame with multiple compartments to create a collage effect without damaging the walls too much. Art makes a rented space feel uniquely yours.
4. Wall Hangings for a Bold Touch
Fabric wall hangings are a renter’s best friend. Not only are they easy to install using a curtain rod, but they’re also affordable and versatile. Transform a dull wall into a bold statement or drape fabric behind your bed for a luxurious, sumptuous effect. You can change your fabrics seasonally or whenever you fancy a fresh look – without the hassle of paint or wallpaper.
5. Mirrors for Light and Space
Mirrors are an easy way to brighten and enlarge a room. Choose ornate designs for an art-like effect, or go simple and practical – the choice is yours. Consider a convex mirror in a small bathroom for a touch of quirkiness, or lean a large rectangular mirror against a wall to create depth and drama. Mirrors are a functional, stylish addition to any rented home.
6. Play with Textiles
Bedding, cushions, and throws can make all the difference in a rental. Layer textures and patterns for a warm, lived-in vibe. Rugs, too, offer an easy way to personalise neutral carpets. Whether it’s a Moroccan runner or a faux fur accent, rugs bring warmth and character without making permanent changes.
7. Shine with the Right Lighting
Lighting transforms a space. A freestanding lamp can add a tailored touch to your living room or create a cosy reading nook. Use table lamps for ambience in hallways and bedrooms, or even invest in a statement chandelier if possible. Light fixtures are a stylish, renter-friendly way to create mood and interest in any room.
8. Feature Furniture That Stands Out
If your rented property is unfurnished and you’ve purchased cost-effective, functional furniture, you can still add flair. Introduce a single standout piece – something unique and eye-catching. Charity shops often have hidden gems that can be upcycled or painted to suit your taste. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make a feature of your furniture.
Personalising a rented property is all about striking the right balance between making it feel like home and respecting rental boundaries. With some creativity and renter-friendly hacks, you can transform any space into a stylish haven that reflects your personality.