17 Quick Tricks That Are Enough To Make Your Rental Feel Like Home In Case You Can’t Or Don’t Want To Decorate It Much
Moving into a rental can feel like living in someone else’s space, with bland walls and cookie-cutter fixtures that lack personality.
But you don’t need major renovations or a huge budget to make your temporary dwelling feel like it truly belongs to you.
With these simple tricks, you can transform your rental into a cozy sanctuary that reflects your style without risking your security deposit.
1. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Magic
Remember those boring white walls your landlord refuses to let you paint? Temporary wallpaper is the perfect solution!
Modern peel-and-stick options come in countless patterns and textures that apply easily and remove cleanly when it’s time to move. Focus on one accent wall in your living room or bedroom to create an instant focal point without the commitment.
2. Layer Cozy Rugs
Ugly carpet or scratched hardwood floors getting you down? Nothing warms up a space faster than beautiful rugs.
Try layering different textures and patterns – perhaps a larger jute rug underneath with a smaller, colorful one on top. This technique adds dimension, defines different areas in open floor plans, and feels wonderfully plush underfoot when you’re padding around your place.
3. Swap Out Cabinet Hardware
Those dated brass knobs and boring drawer pulls are practically begging for an upgrade! Hardware is like jewelry for your kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
Store the original pieces in a labeled bag, then install your own stylish replacements. Black matte pulls can create a modern look, while glass knobs add vintage charm. This five-minute change makes a surprising visual impact.
4. Hang Lightweight Curtains
Vertical mini-blinds are the universal symbol of rental living. Why not upgrade to fabric curtains that soften the room instantly?
Tension rods fit inside window frames without drilling holes, while lightweight panels add color and texture. For extra style points, hang them higher than the window frame to create the illusion of taller ceilings and larger windows.
5. Removable Wall Hooks
Want to hang things without sacrificing your security deposit? Command hooks and similar products are your new best friends!
These adhesive wonders come in various sizes and finishes to hold everything from bath towels to heavy framed art. The best part? They remove cleanly without leaving residue or damage, making them perfect for renters who want to personalize their space.
6. Bring in Soft Throw Blankets
Few things say “home” like wrapping yourself in something soft and cozy. Strategically draping throw blankets adds instant warmth to any space.
Fold one neatly over your sofa arm, casually toss another on your reading chair, or arrange one at the foot of your bed. Choose different textures like chunky knits or plush fleece in colors that complement your decor for maximum impact.
7. Style Bookshelves With Personal Items
Boring built-ins can become the star of your space with thoughtful styling. The secret is mixing books with meaningful objects that tell your story.
Arrange some books vertically, others horizontally, then intersperse with travel souvenirs, small plants, or vintage finds. Leave some breathing room rather than cramming every inch—this curated approach creates visual interest while showcasing your personality.
8. Add a Statement Lamp
Harsh overhead lighting is the enemy of cozy vibes. A stunning table or floor lamp can transform both the light quality and style of your rental instantly.
Look for unique bases or interesting shades that reflect your personality—perhaps a brass lamp with a colorful shade or a sculptural ceramic piece. The warm, diffused glow creates ambiance while the lamp itself serves as functional art.
9. Choose Scented Candles
Our sense of smell powerfully connects to memory and emotion. Carefully selected scented candles can make any rental feel instantly more personal.
Choose fragrances that evoke happy memories—perhaps vanilla reminds you of baking with family, or pine brings back holiday traditions. Group candles of varying heights on trays or shelves for visual impact even when they’re not lit.
10. Use Decorative Baskets
Fighting rental clutter becomes stylish with the right baskets. These versatile workhorses hide everyday items while adding texture and warmth to your space.
Tuck a large woven basket beside the sofa for throw blankets, use smaller ones on shelves for remote controls or charging cables, and consider wall-hanging baskets for plant displays. The natural materials add organic elements that make spaces feel more lived-in and thoughtfully designed.
11. Place Plants Throughout
Nothing breathes life into sterile rental spaces quite like houseplants. These green companions instantly make any space feel more vibrant and established.
Mix different varieties, heights, and pot styles for visual interest. Don’t have a green thumb? Low-maintenance options like snake plants, pothos, and ZZ plants thrive even with minimal care. For plant-killing pros, high-quality faux plants have come a long way!
12. Mix in Secondhand Finds
Vintage and thrifted pieces bring instant character that new items often lack. The history and patina of secondhand finds add depth to cookie-cutter rental spaces.
Hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures like a weathered wooden stool, vintage brass candlesticks, or a unique ceramic vase. These personal discoveries create conversation pieces and make your space feel collected over time rather than ordered from a catalog.
13. Organize Entryway with Trays
First impressions matter, even in rental homes! A thoughtfully arranged entry creates a welcoming feeling the moment you walk through the door.
Place a decorative tray on a console table to corral keys, mail, and sunglasses. Add a small dish for loose change, a pretty hook for your most-used bag, and perhaps a small plant or framed photo. This organized landing spot feels intentional and keeps daily essentials at hand.
14. Update Shower Curtain
Rental bathrooms tend to be the most utilitarian spaces, but a fabulous shower curtain can work wonders! This large textile is essentially wall art for your bathroom.
Choose a pattern or color that energizes you each morning. Pair it with coordinating towels and a small rug for a pulled-together look. For extra style points, hang the curtain higher than standard height to create the illusion of a taller ceiling.
15. Cover Eyesore Flooring
Dated vinyl or worn carpet dragging down your rental vibe? Large area rugs can hide a multitude of flooring sins!
Look for sizes that extend almost to the walls, leaving just a small border of the original flooring visible. For open concept spaces, use different rugs to define separate areas like dining and living zones. This simple switch dramatically transforms the feel of your space.
16. Add a Cozy Duvet
Your bed is the focal point of your bedroom, so make it count! A plush duvet with a stylish cover instantly elevates the entire room.
Choose colors and patterns that make you happy – perhaps calming blues for a serene retreat or bold patterns for an energetic vibe. Layer with different textured pillows and a throw blanket at the foot of the bed for that magazine-worthy, ultra-inviting look.
17. Stack Pretty Coffee Table Books
Who knew books could double as decor? Stylish coffee table books reflect your interests while adding height and dimension to surfaces.
Stack them by size on coffee tables, side tables, or even as nightstand accessories. Choose titles with beautiful covers related to your passions—perhaps travel, architecture, fashion, or cuisine. Top the stack with a small object like a crystal or tiny plant for a designer-worthy vignette.
