When you’re living in a rental, creating a space that feels truly your own can be challenging. Permanent changes are often off the table, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or functionality.
Whether you’re looking to inject some personality into your décor, add storage without drilling into walls, or cover up those outdated floors, there are plenty of creative solutions that won’t break the bank – or your lease.
Here’s how you can make your rental feel like home with some simple, affordable, and landlord-approved improvements.
Temporary Wallpaper and Decals for Personalized Style
Walls play a huge role in defining the look and feel of a space, but when you’re renting, painting might not be an option. Fortunately, temporary wallpaper and wall decals offer a perfect solution.
These peel-and-stick options come in a wide range of colours, patterns, and designs, allowing you to completely transform your walls without the commitment.
Whether you want to create a bold accent wall, add a touch of whimsy with some decals, or cover up an uninspiring paint colour, temporary wallpaper is easy to apply and remove without damaging the walls. You can even find renter-friendly backsplash options to refresh your kitchen or bathroom.
Removable Hooks and Shelving for Added Storage
Storage is a common challenge in rentals, especially if you’re dealing with limited square footage. However, installing permanent shelving or cabinets often requires drilling holes, which most landlords frown upon. That’s where removable hooks and shelving come in handy.
These clever products utilize adhesive strips or tension systems to securely hold items without causing damage to walls. Use removable hooks to hang everything from coats to artwork, or opt for floating shelves that can support books, plants, and decorative items.
They’re easy to install, can hold surprisingly heavy loads, and when it’s time to move, they come off cleanly without leaving any trace.
Creative Ways to Cover Unsightly Floors Without Permanent Changes
If your rental comes with old, unattractive flooring, don’t despair – you don’t have to live with it. There are several temporary fixes that can dramatically improve the look of your floors without any permanent alterations.
Large area rugs are an obvious choice for covering up worn-out carpet or dingy tiles. Layering rugs can add texture and interest to a room, and they’re easy to take with you when you move.
For a more tailored look, consider interlocking floor tiles or vinyl planks. These products can be placed directly over existing floors and are available in a variety of designs, including wood-look options that mimic the appearance of hardwood.
If you’re looking to refresh your kitchen or bathroom, adhesive floor decals are a game changer. These peel-and-stick tiles can be applied directly over existing surfaces, allowing you to customize your space with minimal effort. Best of all, they can be easily removed without damaging the floor underneath.
Subtle Additions for a Healthier Home
While aesthetics are important, don’t forget about your wellbeing. Enhancing your space can go beyond just looks – for example, adding a benchtop water filter to your kitchen can be a simple yet impactful upgrade.
Not only does it improve the quality of your drinking water, but it also saves space and can easily be installed without any permanent fixtures. It’s an affordable and practical way to ensure you’re staying healthy while maintaining the flexibility that rental living demands.
Final Thoughts
Just because you’re renting doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or convenience. With these cheap, easy, and rental-friendly home improvements, you can create a space that’s uniquely yours, all while staying within the guidelines of your lease.
So, go ahead – add that pop of colour, increase your storage options, and cover those floors. With a little creativity, your rental can truly feel like home.