5 Ways To Make A Rental Feel Like Your Home

Renting a property limits your ability to renovate and make a space feel like your own, but with a little creativity, a few simple tips can go a long way in making an impactful difference. Whether you’re renting or just wanting to make a few changes to your space without taking on any major projects, check out our 5 top tips for customizing a rental home.

Artwork

A few well-placed pieces of wall art can significantly alter the atmosphere of a room. Framing artwork, and featuring bold, abstract prints or personalized wall hangings will instantly inject personality into your space. With the use of command strips or adhesive tape, you can hang art without needing to drill nails into a wall, essentially avoiding creating holes that would otherwise need fixing before you leave. Alternatively, you can achieve the same effect of personalisation by propping pieces on top of a console, nightstand, or even the floor.

Replace the Lighting

While you may not be able to move the wiring or lighting placement in a rental without the landlord's permission, switching out a fixture in the entryway or above a dining table will lead to a drastic change. Light fixtures are something you use and see daily, so switching out old fixtures to something new that aligns with your style will make all the difference in elevating a space.
Remember - The eye is always drawn up! 

Cabinet and Door Hardware

Whether you are facing chipped handles, or mismatched pieces of hardware, switching the knobs and handles of your closets, bathrooms, and kitchen will allow for a more cohesive look throughout the space. Try something different to make a statement, like leather pulls, stone, glass, or shiny metallic materials in funky shapes.
Note: This tip works best when purchasing handles or pulls that have the same size, and placement of the existing screw holes. Most are universal - but be sure to shop with this in mind.

Get Creative with Storage

Rental homes often lack good storage, which inevitably leads to clutter, mess, and an uncomfortable space to be living in. Try not to overload the space with bulky pieces that have no aesthetic appeal, instead aim to maximize functionality and make the most of fewer pieces. For instance, opt for a bedframe with built-in draws, or add hidden storage boxes below what you already own. Ensure to maximize every possible storage space from floor to ceiling and everything in between. This could include installing built-in shelving above a doorway or adding storage above a cabinet or within a bookshelf. Baskets can look appealing, while also storing all the little things that have no designated home!

Removable Wallpaper

Wanting a dramatic change or statement piece within a space? Wallpaper can be your best friend! Available in a wide range of colours, textures, and prints, this can be the ideal option for a room makeover in making a rental feel like it’s your own. Removable wallpaper works in that it doesn’t require water or prep ahead of time before installation. With an innovative, self-adhesive already applied to the paper when purchased, application simply requires the removal of the backing paper, and the wallpaper gets directly applied to the surface.
With step-by-step tutorial videos - how could you go wrong?

You may not be able to fully renovate your rental home, but you can absolutely make it a house to be home-sick over with a few small changes. From simple additions of artwork or storage boxes to minor changes of hardware and lighting fixtures, any house can become a home with a little bit of your own personality thrown in.