Decorating a rented home often comes with limitations to personalize your space. While some landlords may be flexible and allow you to paint walls or make minor alterations, others have stricter rules to maintain the rental property’s condition. But with some creative thinking and simple non-permanent solutions, you can add personality, style, and warmth to your rented space without risking your deposit or breaking the lease rules when it’s time to move out. From removable wall decor to stylish furniture and lighting, these tips will make your rental feel like your own, no matter how temporary the stay.
Window Treatments That Are Easy to Install
Upgrading your window treatments can completely change the mood of a room. Instead of settling for the standard blinds or curtains provided, add some style with these rental-friendly ideas.
Neutral or Bold Curtains: Curtains not only add color and texture but also provide privacy. Stick to neutral shades for a sleek, modern look, or go bold with prints and colors for a more personalized touch.
Tension Rods for No-Damage Hanging: If you can’t drill holes in the walls, tension rods are a great way to hang curtains without leaving any damage. They fit snugly into window frames, making installation quick and easy.
Roman Shades or Bamboo Blinds: These provide a natural and sophisticated look. Bamboo blinds, for instance, add texture and warmth, while roman shades offer a soft, elegant touch.
Buy Light Fixtures for Instant Impact
One of the simplest ways to create a cozy environment is by upgrading your light fixtures. If your lease allows for minor alterations, swap out basic ceiling lights for pendant lights to elevate your home. Table lamps and floor lamps bring functionality and style into any space with minimal effort. Best of all, they can add personality to your room, whether you go for modern, industrial, or boho styles. If you want to make a smart choice for your home and the planet, consider using LED bulbs in your fixtures. They’re not only energy-efficient, but they also last for about 10 to 15 years, so they’re a great investment in the long run.
Pro Tip: Keep the original fixtures in case you need to reinstall them when moving out.
Get Creative with Wall Decor (Without Painting)
If you’re lucky enough to get the green light to add colour to your rental, it’s an easy way to make the space feel more like home. Be sure to note the original wall colour, as you may need to restore it to its original state when you move out. If painting isn't allowed, there are still plenty of ways to bring vibrancy and style into your rental home.
Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: You can create a statement wall or add a subtle pattern without risking any damage. And when it's time to move out, it comes off easily, leaving no marks behind.
Art and Framed Photos: Adding your favorite prints, photos, or artwork to the walls can instantly personalize a space. Use removable hooks or picture hanging strips to avoid putting holes in the walls.
New Bedroom Decor Updates That Pays Off
The bed is an important piece of furniture in any rental home, serving as the space where you rest, recharge, and find comfort. Investing in new bed linen such as high-quality sheets, soft blankets, and cozy duvets can have a huge impact on how restful and inviting your space feels. If you can’t install a permanent headboard, a tension rod can be placed behind your bed to hold a fabric panel creating the illusion of a stylish headboard without drilling into the walls.
Need more storage? Adding decorative storage baskets or bins at the foot of your bed serves as functional storage for extra blankets or accessories and texture and style to your room. If you’re not a fan of heavy duvets or comforters, opt for a lighter bed coverlet or a quilt to keep your bed looking fresh and inviting, while also offering the right amount of warmth. Lastly, if bulky furniture isn’t your style, swap traditional nightstands for small, stylish stools that are easier to move and a unique touch to your bedroom’s decor.
Use Multi-Functional Furniture for Rental Homes
Add Greenery (Including Faux Plants)
Plants are an easy way to add a burst of color and soften any space, making a room feel more inviting and alive. Whether you prefer real plants or you're someone who travels frequently, faux plants are a fantastic option. They look just as good as the real deal and require zero effort.
Small Potted Plants: If you’re someone who loves real plants but doesn’t want to worry about watering, try small, low-maintenance plants like snake plants or pothos plants. These can live in smaller spaces and don’t require much attention.
Realistic Faux Plants: High-quality artificial plants can look incredibly lifelike and require no maintenance. From fiddle-leaf figs to succulents, there’s a wide variety of faux plants available. Place them in stylish pots for a sophisticated look.
Plant Stands or Hanging Planters: To elevate your plants, use modern plant stands or hanging planters to add height to your decor.
Pro Tip: Dust faux plants regularly to keep them looking fresh, and if you choose real plants, go for hardy varieties that can tolerate some neglect.
Portable Furniture to Maximize Flexibility
Garden stools can serve as coffee tables or bedside tables. They are lightweight, easy to move, and can add a pop of color to any room. Look for one with a versatile finish that can work with different spaces in your home, so it always feels like it belongs, no matter where you place it.
Ottomans are another great option. They provide extra seating or can function as tray-topped tables. Plus, ottomans come in various price ranges, so you can find one that fits your budget.
Change Your Flooring with Rugs
Living in a rental means you're usually stuck with whatever flooring is already in place. If the carpet or flooring isn't exactly your style, consider layering a few stylish area rugs to hide the imperfections and add warmth to your space. Layering rugs can create a cozy, lived-in feel while allowing you to play with textures, colors, and patterns without committing to something permanent. Plus, rugs are the perfect non-permanent solution you can easily roll them up and take them with you when you move out. Rugs are versatile, budget-friendly, and can completely change the atmosphere of a room without the need for any major changes to the rental property.