How to transform a rental into your personal sanctuary

This is a collaborative post

Renting a home doesn’t mean you have to settle for a bland, impersonal space. With a few clever tricks and removable updates, you can transform any rental into a cosy, personalised sanctuary that reflects your unique style and taste. 

Here’s how to make your rented space feel more like your own, without risking your security deposit.

Start with Colour

One of the simplest ways to inject personality into a space is with colour. If painting walls is off-limits, consider using removable wallpaper or large, colourful artwork to brighten up your rooms. Removable wallpaper comes in a dizzying array of designs and is easy to take down when you move out. 

Alternatively, vibrant curtains or a statement rug can add a splash of colour and warmth to any room, creating a focal point that draws the eye.

Embrace Flexible Furniture

In a rental, versatile furniture is your best friend. Opt for pieces that can serve multiple purposes or be easily moved around. 

A storage ottoman, for example, can double as a coffee table, extra seating, or a footrest, while modular sofas can be reconfigured to fit different spaces. Investing in quality, versatile pieces ensures they can travel with you and adapt to future homes.

Create Layers with Lighting

Lighting can dramatically alter the feel of a room, and it’s something you can easily control. Swap out dated light fixtures with stylish, modern alternatives, like those provided by Corston —just store the original fixtures to reinstall before you leave. Here, you can see the different types of switches and sockets and take your pick! 

For a less permanent option, an array of lamps can create a warm, layered lighting effect. Floor lamps, table lamps, and even string lights can add ambience and cosiness to your rental without the need for electrical changes.

Focus on Soft Furnishings

Soft furnishings are a renter's secret weapon. They’re affordable, impactful, and completely portable. Scatter cushions, throws, and rugs can transform a room, adding colour, texture, and warmth. These elements are also perfect for creating a unified look, tying together different colours and patterns in the décor.

Photo credit DESIGNECOLOGIST via Unsplash

Personalise with Accessories

Accessories are the jewels of home décor, allowing your personality to shine through in even the most temporary of spaces. Displaying collections, photographs, and artwork can instantly make a rental feel more like home. Consider using shelves or picture ledges to display personal items without drilling holes in the walls, a smart move that landlords appreciate. 

Plants are another wonderful way to personalise your space and bring life to any room. From ferns that can brighten a shady corner to vibrant succulents on a sunny windowsill, plants not only beautify your environment but also improve air quality and can increase your sense of wellbeing. 

Use Window Treatments to Your Advantage

Window treatments are a powerful decorating tool, playing a dual role by enhancing privacy and adding substantial style. 

Choosing curtains or blinds in luxurious fabrics or with intriguing textures can dramatically change the character of a room, infusing elegance or a touch of whimsy, depending on your choice. They're also perfect for concealing less-than-perfect windows or frames, a common issue in rental properties. 

You may want to try layering sheer curtains with heavier drapes to achieve both privacy and style flexibility. This approach lets you adjust lighting and privacy levels throughout the day while also adding depth and richness to your interiors.

Invest in Wall Art Without the Commitment

Hanging art is vital for personalising your space and expressing your artistic taste, but many rental agreements prohibit nails or screws in walls. To navigate this, use adhesive hooks or strips that can hold substantial weight without damaging the paint or plaster. This allows you to hang your favourite artwork and enjoy an art-filled home without concern for your security deposit. 

You could even lean larger pieces against walls on top of consoles or dressers for an artsy, laid-back vibe that can be changed up with ease.

Create Zones

In smaller spaces or studios, creating distinct areas for different activities can significantly enhance your living experience. 

Use room dividers, decorative curtains, or strategic furniture arrangements to carve out separate zones for sleeping, working, and relaxing. This not only helps in organising your activities but also infuses a structured, aesthetic appeal into your space. 

For instance, positioning a bookshelf as a room divider can offer privacy while displaying books and décor items, serving dual purposes. 

Make It Smell Like Home

Never underestimate the power of a familiar scent. Whether it's scented candles, diffusers, or incense, having a signature scent can make any place feel more like home. It’s a subtle yet powerful way to enhance the atmosphere of your home and create a comforting, familiar environment.

Photo credit Mindaugas Norvilas via Unsplash

By implementing these tips, you can turn any rental property into a personal retreat that feels as cosy and unique as any "forever" home. Remember, the goal is to create a space that reflects who you are, using elements that can be easily set up and taken down when it’s time to move. 

With a little creativity and some smart choices, your rental will quickly become your personal sanctuary.