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The concept of owning property has evolved dramatically over the past 40 years, shifting from a symbol of stability to an unlikely aspiration for many. Instead, renting has become the norm, but it often limits tenants’ ability to personalise their living spaces. Most lease agreements contain clauses that prohibit significant changes, requiring any alterations to be restored to their original condition upon move-out, which makes anything like knocking down walls a little tricky. However, it does open the door for tenants who want to get creative and express their design skills within the stipulated constraints. So, to help them on their way, we've compiled renter-friendly upgrades with the potential to imbue leaseholds with the individuality of a long-term home.
Plus, most of the ideas listed in this guide to DIY renter-friendly upgrades are design investments you can take with you wherever you go next!
Dream Up Window Treatments
Window treatment ideas can dress up a rental apartment in an instant; it offers a stylish way to personalise one's home without making permanent changes. Patterned draperies can add depth and create a striking focal point, while natural woven or solid-textured panels lend a refined touch with minimal effort. For a truly luxurious look, full-length curtains, especially in rooms with high ceilings, elevate the space dramatically. Venetian blinds are perfect for diffusing light softly, creating a cosy ambience. If you're struggling to choose just one fabric, try layering two sets of drapes using tension rods – no drilling needed for this elegant, versatile solution. Another fail-proof renter-friendly home upgrade is the no-drill roman blinds system: Order them online and simply latch them onto the existing frame. No stickers, no holes to repair, no fuss.
Switch Out Light Fixtures
Lighting design can vastly improve the visual of interiors by drawing attention to textures, enhancing colours, and defining volumes. Eye-catching, sculptural pieces – like oversized chandeliers or bold floor lamps – can be both elegant and dramatic, infusing a space with character whilst improving the well-being of inhabitants. Changing light fixtures that require minimal effort is a simple and transformative option for renters, as are plug-and-play table lamps or even a unique lampshade that can be easily installed and removed to take with you to your next home when your tenancy is up. Some chic floor and table lamps will make any place feel warm instantly.
Put Down A Rug
Whether it's vintage rugs or high-quality contemporary designs, like those from The Rug Company, Iwan Maktabi and Jaipur Rugs, carpets are game-changing design investments that double up as fun renter-friendly upgrades. They’re perfect for carving out different areas in an open-plan space, like a dining spot or lounge area. Not only do they add warmth and texture, but they also help with thermal and sound insulation, making your space quieter – great for keeping things private or reducing noise and potential conflict – between neighbours. Plus, a lesser-known benefit of carpeting is it can improve air quality by trapping allergens in their fibres, which is a nice bonus for people with hay fever or those who live in built-up areas.
Source Statement Furniture
Despite not investing in a permanent home, a keen eye for investment-worthy, statement furniture is the simplest way to transform a space. A sleek mid-century modern sofa is a go-to, as is a vintage armchair, as long as both fit through the front door. Look for items crafted from unique materials, or with striking metal accents. And if you’re hesitant about committing to a purchase, furniture rental services provide a flexible option, letting you swap out pieces as your style evolves. It’s an easy way to create a home that truly reflects you, without the long-term pressure.
Luxury Bedding and Linens
There’s nothing quite like escaping to a cocoon-like bedroom for some much-needed relaxation. Your bedroom should be a haven. Focus on features that promote warmth and comfort, especially when it comes to bed linen, to achieve this. Luxurious sheets and plush pillows can make all the difference, inviting you to sink into a restful slumber. Pair them with soft lighting and calming colour schemes to create the feeling of being enveloped in a soothing embrace. We recommend on-trend earthy hues like deep brown in linen for that magazine-quality, lived-in look.
Opt for some Art
You might view art as the domain of wealthy collectors, but it’s much more than just something to be tucked away. Just as important as furniture or paint, the right pieces can play a key role in helping to create a space that is visually appealing whilst sparking conversations amongst dinner guests. And if buying from galleries isn’t feasible? Online art stores offer a fantastic alternative, letting you test out the right works to bring the blankest of walls to life.
Invest in Smart Storage
Storage solutions are a fantastic way to enhance a rental, especially since each property varies in what it offers. For those who crave a personalised touch without the commitment of drilling into walls, freestanding bookcases, display cabinets and shelving can satisfy the desire for built-in functionality while allowing you the flexibility to rearrange or take them with you when you move.
Experiment with Peel-and-Stick Wall Treatments
In kitchens and bathrooms, non-permanent peel-and-stick backsplash tiles or panels offer chic renter-friendly home upgrade solutions that can be easily applied and removed. This is especially appealing for new families with young kids, where unexpected marks and doodles can quickly turn a rental dream into a rental nightmare. Consider it a stylish insurance policy, allowing you to return your home to its original state when it’s time to move on.
Upgrade Hardware and Fixtures
Swapping out standard cabinet handles, upgrading faucets or choosing designer door hardware is a clever way to personalise a rental property. Brands like Grohe for faucets and Buster + Punch for hardware offer luxurious fixtures with materials like brass, bronze, and polished chrome. Whether classic or contemporary, the right hardware can be the finishing touch that transforms an entire room you’ve grown tired of, or that needs a quick freshen-up.
Self-Adhesive Floor Tiles To Elevate Your Rental Home
Pretty much the same concept as stick-on wall tiles, self-adhesive floor tiles will instantly amp up the style quotient of your rental. You can use them up upgrade your kitchen and bathrooms, or go all out and make a statement throughout. Most self-adhesive floor tiles can be bought online, but first, a word of caution: Buy designs that match your existing floor tile as this will give the most authentic look, and second, do a patch test, so you know the sticker will come off easily (and without residue) when it's time to leave.
Coloured Walls Over Plain White Ones
No rental-friendly apartment upgrade is as cheap (or effective) as painting over bog-standard white walls. Choose any on-trend colour (we recommend any and every shade of brown) or earthy tones for an instant impact. Save money by having a go at painting the walls yourself, and when it's time to move on, you'd have enough confidence to paint it all back to basic.
Pick a Mirror that reflects you
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There’s a mirror solution for almost every interior design challenge. Not only do they give the illusion of having more space – they also reflect light, create focal points, and allow for flexibility as your tastes evolve. Large full-length mirrors can be propped against without damage to walls, making them an easy addition. If not, most classic frames are easy to hang and remove, allowing you to experiment with the decor without the need for complicated DIY skills.
Use Real Plants To Liven Up Your Rental Home
There is a houseplant for every home owner, even those who can't seem to keep any alive. Indoor plants will add colour, texture and life to your rental, you just need to get the right one. Follow our houseplants guide to find one that suits your home the best.
