Making your rental feel like home
Rentals. They're necessary evils, but sometimes (especially if they're furnished) but here are some great ideas to make your rental feel like a home you own. The main point is to change things that aren't permanent (obviously) but that will make a big difference. Most of these suggestions also help that they're moveable - so you can transport them if you move!
Curtains
Impermanent fixtures - rental curtains are often simply functional. Buying some nicer curtains that suit your style more is easy and effective.
Floor coverings
Rugs and runners soften hard floors and add detail to carpets and room layouts
Paintings or wall fixtures
Art, prints, material, mirrors and more can be put up on your walls. And you don't have to use nails and permanent hangers that will be a paint to remove and fix walls later, because there are lots of great products that are temporary.
Light shades and fittings
Some light fittings you can't change, but many you can - especially paper shades. It's easy to change them and you can usually use them again if you move.
Innovative storage
The complaint about many rentals is that storage space is limited. So why not solve your storage problems and add character by getting coloured boxes and filling them with things, making them a feature in your lounge or bedroom?
Interesting furniture
The best thing about rentals is that they are usually very similar and predictable - beige walls, light carpets, neutral fittings. So any furniture that you choose will go with them - why not buy furniture that really makes a statement, like a bright red suede armchair or an art deco floor lamp?
Room dividers
Beautiful screens add interest to rooms and also helps give (usually open plan) areas a cosier feel. Plus, if your rental has big sliding doors near the outside and you're concerned about privacy, you can always place the screen in a strategic way - they often still let light in but make it harder to see into your home, and are more interesting than curtains or blinds.
Plants
Plants make a huge difference to the way a home feels. Whether you pick big or little ones, pot plants or mini trays, they all accentuate the personality of your home.
How have you made your rental feel like home?
