Renting imposes some limits on modifying properties extensively. It can feel like you are staying in a glorified hotel (or not glorified, depending on the property!) and like you have no say in how the space looks and feels. More and more people are renting as property prices go up, and you don’t want to be stuck in a space that doesn’t feel like home. However, small customizations go far energizing bland, generic spaces with unique flair reflecting you. Utilize these techniques to infuse personality within rental constraints.
Consult The Landlord On Any Restrictions Upfront
Before you make any assumptions about what changes you can make, clarify with your landlord or property manager what customizations are allowed per your lease. Most permit minor modifications like wall décor, removable fixtures, furniture rearrangement, and window treatments. But double-check, as some prohibit any alterations, or require approval. Know the rules.
Paint An Accent Wall
An easy makeover for transforming any room lets you choose a vibrant color and paint one “statement” wall”. This pops visually while avoiding major re-painting tasks down the road. Look for low VOC options safe for indoor use. Just repaint the wall neutral before moving out.
Display Meaningful Wall Art
Affordable framed prints, original artwork, treasured photos, collections of objects like framed butterflies or invariant materials like wood rounds bring personality to walls. Group pieces thematically to create engaging galleries. Rotate seasonal decor as desired. Wall art shares stories.
Use Removable Decals And Wallpaper
Removable wall decals featuring inspirational quotes, floral patterns or geometric shapes let you customize backdrops. Likewise, self-adhesive, peel-and-stick wallpaper applies easily to refresh cabinets or walls with color and texture, removable later. Both transform rooms affordably.
Install Temporary Shelving
Lack of sufficient built-in shelving and storage can make personalizing challenging. But removable shelving lets you customize without drilling or permanent fasteners. Free-standing bookshelves, wall-mounted bracket systems with detachable rails, over-the-door racks and utility carts efficiently utilize space.
Display Meaningful Collections
Exhibit treasured collections or travel souvenirs through shelving, tabletop displays, floating ledges, mirrored shadow boxes, curio cabinets and wall arrangements to infuse spaces with memories. Group items by color or theme for sensational styles. This visually shares your adventures.
Showcase Photos And Mementos
Wonderful rental customization comes from decorating with framed photos of family, friends, pets, and favorite getaways. Or display cherished souvenirs like seashells from vacations, ticket stubs and backstage passes from concerts, or sports team memorabilia. Personal touches make impersonal rentals homey.
Install Temporary Backsplashes
Lacking the ability to swap permanent tiles, inexpensive stick-on backsplash panels and peel-and-stick tile decals let you customize kitchens and bathrooms with color. Use waterproof vinyl materials that apply directly over existing finishes for temporary transformation without hassles removing later.
Use Area Rugs And Runners
Rugs instantly warm up any room with color, texture, and coziness underfoot. Layer large area rugs over existing floors or define spaces with hallway runners and plush bathroom rugs. When relocating, a fresh rug style quickly refreshes. Rugs are redecorated easily.
Fun Lighting Options Can Make A Huge Difference
Most overhead fixtures are utilitarian. But portable lamps, string lights and sconces with personality infuse rooms with a playful flair. Sculptural floor lamps also redefine spaces. Uplights and adjustable spotlights create a mood. Lighting upgrades create a dramatic impact. Neon signs can add some real fun to a space too. Custom neon signs can turn a drab room into a personalized zone. If you’re looking for a neon light, talk to the team at Echo Neon. Their custom neon signs are perfect for anyone needing a boost for their home.
Rearrange And Upgrade Furniture
Assuming furniture is permitted based on your lease, rearrange pieces in creative new layouts to revitalize the feel. Freshen seating with slipcovers, new cushions or throws from thrift shops. Repurpose items like storage ottomans, stools, and side tables in novel ways. Refurnish affordably by repurposing.
Add Greenery And Plants
Every space in your home benefits from the life plants provide. Add large statement plants in entryways and living rooms. Use ferns or succulents in bathrooms. Herb gardens or potted vegetables on patios personalize outdoor living areas beautifully. Just ensure greenery is realistic to maintain.
Introduce Fun Accents And Accessories
Inject personality through accents like throw pillows, area rugs, patterned blankets, unique lamp shades, scented candles, decorative trays and vases, monogrammed napkins, or antimacassars on upholstered furniture. Such details make even generic backdrops feel like home.
Update Window Treatments
Swap generic blinds for a style that complements your decor aesthetic using adjustable curtain rods and window panels. Tailor to lighting needs and privacy. Given how crazy the weather has been, it might make sense to go for thermal curtains. Add character with drapes, shimmers, shades, or shutters without altering the windows themselves. Ensure changes are reversible.
With a little creativity, any rental can be customized into a space reflecting you despite lease restrictions. Take cues from what most delights your senses to transform houses into cherished homes.