How to Make Rented Accommodation Feel More Like A Home
Renting a house or an apartment doesn’t mean you have to compromise on making it feel like your personal sanctuary. While you may not have the freedom to knock down walls or repaint every room, there are myriad ways to inject your own style and personality into the space.
From temporary yet impactful modifications to thoughtful decorations, transforming a rented accommodation into a cozy, inviting home is entirely possible. Here’s how you can turn any rental into your very own home sweet home.
Personalize with Photographs
Nothing says home quite like having your favorite memories on display. Photos of family, friends, and memorable moments can make any space feel personal and lived-in. With options for photo printing online, it’s easier than ever to create beautiful prints of your cherished memories.
These can be hung using temporary hooks or rested on shelves, maintaining the integrity of the walls while adding a warm, personal touch to your living space.
Invest in Removable Wallpaper
Gone are the days when renters had to make do with bland, unchangeable walls. Removable wallpaper is a game-changer for anyone looking to customize their rental without the permanence or damage associated with traditional wallpaper.
Available in a dizzying array of patterns and textures, removable wallpaper can transform a room from drab to fab in no time. It’s an easy way to add color and personality without risking your security deposit.
Incorporate Textiles and Soft Furnishings
Textiles have the power to transform a space instantly. Rugs can define areas and add warmth underfoot, curtains can inject color and texture, while cushions and throws can make any seating area more inviting.
These elements can easily be swapped out according to season or mood, allowing for a fresh look without significant changes. Plus, they’re practical additions, making your rented space not just stylish but comfortable too.
Light Up Your Space
Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood of a room. Unfortunately, rental properties often come with less-than-ideal lighting fixtures. The good news is that there are plenty of non-permanent lighting solutions available.
\Floor lamps, table lamps, and string lights can dramatically alter the atmosphere of a room, making it cozier and more welcoming. Look for lighting options that reflect your style and enjoy the ambience they create.
Go Green with Plants
Plants are an excellent way to make any space feel more homely. Not only do they add a vibrant pop of green and bring nature indoors, but they also improve air quality.
If you don’t have a green thumb, fret not — there are plenty of low-maintenance options available that can thrive with minimal attention. From succulents to snake plants, adding a bit of greenery can make your rental feel more alive and more like home.
Use Furniture to Define Spaces
In many rentals, especially studio apartments or open-plan living areas, defining “rooms” can be a challenge. Furniture can be a great tool in this regard.
Use bookshelves as room dividers, position your sofa to delineate the living area, or place a rug under your dining table to define the dining space. These strategic placements can help organize and personalize your rental, making it feel more structured and homey.
Embrace Multi-functional Furniture
Space can often be at a premium in rental accommodations, making it important to choose furniture that serves multiple purposes.
Look for items that offer additional storage, fold away when not in use, or can serve more than one function, like a pouf that doubles as a table or extra seating. Not only will this help you make the most of your space, but it also allows for flexibility in how you use your home.
Leave Room for Evolution
Lastly, remember that making a rented space feel like home is a process that doesn’t happen overnight. Your needs and tastes will evolve, as will the options available to you.
Leaving room for your home to evolve with you, arranging and rearranging as you discover what works best, will ensure that you continue to love and feel comfortable in your space over time.
Creating a home in a rental property is about finding a balance between personalization and practicality. By focusing on non-permanent changes and infusing the space with your own style, you can make any rental accommodation feel like a cherished home.
With creativity and a bit of effort, you’ll be amazed at how much warmth and personality you can instill in your rented space.
