Budget-friendly Hacks to Personalise Your Rented Space (Without Upsetting Your Landlord!)

You move into a new rental space and unpack the boxes. 

But it feels a bit bland, doesn’t it? 

White walls, generic fixtures – it lacks that personal touch that makes a house a home.

But what if I tell you that you can create a space that speaks volumes about you without needing a hefty budget or permission to drill holes?

Amazing, right?

In this blog, we'll explore some clever and budget-friendly decorating ideas, furniture hacks, and storage solutions that are not only stylish but also perfect for renters like you.

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Tips to Personalize Your Rental Home on a Budget

• Rugs to the Rescue

Bare floors are a hallmark of many rentals. But the truth is they can feel a little cold and impersonal. 

So, what’s the solution? 

Instead of spending money on new carpets (which your landlord probably wouldn't appreciate anyway), you can use area rugs. Area rugs add instant warmth, texture, and colour to your home. They can define different zones in a room, like a cosy reading nook or a vibrant workspace.

Oval-shaped area rugs can soften a space with sharp edges, while a long runner can add visual interest to a narrow hallway.

Layering rugs is another fantastic way to add depth and texture. You can layer smaller rugs over a larger, neutral one for a bohemian touch. This works especially well in open-plan living areas.

The best part?

Rugs are easy to swap out when you move, allowing you to personalise different rentals with minimal hassle.

• Repurpose & Revamp the Furniture

Chances are, your rental might not come fully furnished, or the existing furniture might not quite fit your style. But before you rush out and buy new pieces, consider repurposing your old furniture.

A new coat of paint can give your old dresser or bookshelf a fresh lease on life. You can use bold colours for an accent piece or calming neutrals for a more serene vibe.

 You might wonder, where can I get old furniture at affordable rates?

Thrift stores and online marketplaces are your best friends when it comes to finding affordable two-piece sectional sofas or contemporary dining tables with potential. You can look for pieces that you can customise with paint or even by simply switching out the knobs and handles.

Replacing worn-out upholstery on a chair or sofa can be expensive. Instead, you can reupholster it with a fresh fabric. You can find affordable upholstery fabric online or at discount stores.

• Wall Decor

Landlords often frown upon drilling holes in walls. But that doesn't mean you can't have stunning wall art. Following are some renter-friendly solutions:

1. You can use command strips to hang lightweight artwork, draped fabric or photos without damaging the walls. You can choose fabrics that complement your colour scheme or showcase your favourite artwork prints.
2. You can create a gallery wall using removable adhesive hooks. This allows you to easily rearrange your artwork or add new pieces whenever the mood strikes.
3. Washi tape, a decorative Japanese masking tape, comes in various colours and patterns. 

You can use it to create borders around mirrors or artwork, design geometric patterns on the wall, or stick up inspirational quotes. It's easily removable, so you won't have angry landlords to deal with.

• Storage Solutions

Rentals often lack sufficient storage space, but that doesn't mean you have to live in clutter. You can utilise vertical space with floating shelves or hanging organisers. 

Hanging organisers behind closet doors or on the back of pantry doors are excellent for storing shoes, scarves, or cleaning supplies.

Ottomans with built-in storage are lifesavers for tucking away blankets or extra pillows. Crates can also be repurposed as shelves or side tables. You can invest in decorative baskets or bins to keep everyday items organised and out of sight.

However, the catch is the most ingenious storage solutions won't work in a perpetually cluttered space. 

You need to schedule regular decluttering sessions to get rid of unused items. It’s better to donate gently used items, sell things you no longer need online, and recycle what can't be reused. 

• Light Up Your Space

Lighting plays a major role in setting the mood and ambience of a space. Here are some tips to help you light up your rental space in an affordable way:

1. You can string fairy lights around your headboard, drape them across curtains, or use them to create a magical canopy above your bed. They provide soft, warm lighting and instant mood magic.
2. You can revamp old lampshades with fabric paint, spray paint, or even decorative fabric scraps. 
3. You can rearrange your existing lamps and add floor lamps to create different lighting zones for various activities. This can alter the feel of your room.

In a Nutshell

Now it's your turn! 

Take a look around your rental space and identify areas you can personalise.

But remember, a personalised rental space doesn't have to be expensive or permanent. By adopting renter-friendly solutions and repurposing what you have, you can create a home that feels warm, inviting, and your own.

Share your creative hacks and before-and-after photos & tag us on Instagram using #RentalStyle. 

We'd love to see how you make your space your own!

Happy decorating!