Moving into a new rental is exciting, but it can also feel a little temporary at first. With restrictions on decorating and a space that isn't technically "yours" it's easy to feel like you're just passing through.
The good news? There are plenty of simple, deposit-safe ways to make your rental feel like home, cosy, personal and truly yours.
Here's how to do it.
1. Add personality with soft furnishings
Soft furnishings are your best friend in a rental. They're non-permanent but make a big visual impact.
- -Layer throws and cushions on sofas and beds for warmth and texture.
- -Choose curtains or rugs that add colour and pattern
- -Use matching bedding and cushions to pull a room together.
Tip: Rugs not only make a space feel cosier, but they also protect floors from wear, win-win!
2. Decorate without damaging walls
You don't need to drill holes to hang art. Try:
- -Command hooks or strips for hanging photos or frames.
- -Leaning artwork on shelves or against walls for a relaxed, modern look.
A few framed prints or personal photos can instantly make the space feel more like yours.
3. Bring the outdoors in
Plants breathe life into any room, literally.
- -Low maintenance options like pothos, snake plants, or succulents are perfect for beginners.
- -If you're short on natural light, go for realistic faux plants.
- -Small herb pots in the kitchen add both greenery and fresh flavour to your meals.
They not only make your home look great but also look great but also improve air quality and your mood.
4. Set the mood with lighting
Many rentals come with a standard ceiling light that can feel harsh. You can easily change the atmosphere with:
- -Floor and table lamps for softer lighting.
- -Warm white bulbs instead of cool white ones.
- -Fairy lights or candles for extra-cozy vibes
Good lighting makes a huge difference, especially in evenings when you want to unwind.
5. Rearrange the furniture
Even if the property came furnished, you can often rearrange it to suit your lifestyle.
- -Move pieces around to create a better flow.
- -Add small, personal items like a comfy chair, a small bookshelf, or a coffee table you love.
- -If you buy new furniture, choose items you can take with you to your next home.
Just remember to return everything to it's original place when you move out to protect your deposit.
6. Create comfort zones
Your rental should reflect your routine. Create spaces that make daily life enjoyable.
- -A reading corner with a chair, lamp and blanket.
- -A coffee nook in the kitchen.
- -A mini home office if you work from home.
Even small touches can turn a standard flat into a place that feels uniquely yours.
7. Add familiar scents
Scent is a powerful trigger for feeling at home.
use:
- -Candles, diffusers or wax melts in your favourite scents.
- -Fresh flowers or laundry spray for a clean, comforting aroma
Within days, your rental will start to smell like your space, not a previous tenants.
8. Keep it clean and organised
It sounds simple, but tidiness makes a rental feel far more homely. Invest in smart storage such as baskets, drawer dividers, and under-bed boxes to help keep everything in order.
A space that's clutter-free feels calmer and more "you".
9. Final touch: Make memories there
What truly turns a property into a home are the memories you make in it.
Host a movie night, cook a new recipe, or invite friends over for a takeaway on the sofa. The more moments you create there, the more it starts to feel like your space.
Renting with Metro Homes?
At Metro Homes, we believe your rental should be more than just a place to stay, it should feel like home.
Our friendly team can help you find a property that fits your lifestyle perfectly. from cosy studios to spacious family homes!
Rhiana Stebbings
Metro Homes Lettings ltd
rhiana@metro-homes.co.uk
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