So you’ve moved to your new rented property but somehow you’re not feeling the full effect of being in your own home.
Could it be the décor isn’t quite what you remembered in the first viewing? Or perhaps when you sit down in the living room you don’t feel completely at ease?
Not to worry!
You may not be able to make big changes, such as replacing the entire kitchen or installing a hot tub in the living room, but there are loads of little things you can do to make your house or apartment feel more like home sweet home.
Get creative
Before you put brush to paint to wall, speak with your landlord and read the rental contract. If your landlord gives you permission to change the décor, get stuck in! If the landlord doesn’t, there are other ways to brighten up the place. Putting up mural-sized photos and your favourite artwork on the walls – with discreet and temporary fixings – can make a room suddenly more appealing and homely, providing eye-catching colour and images.
If you can’t hang new frames, removable wall vinyls are on trend right now and you won’t even need nails or drawing pins!
Remember, too, you can always put your landlord’s pictures of his mother-in-law into safe storage and replace them with yours on the same hanging.
Who’s the fairest of them all?
Yes, it’s you, of course. And the smartest . . . because you know that mirrors positioned in the perfect places – even if simply left leaning against a wall – are a great way for giving the impression of extra space and light in a dark room.
Express yourself
Whatever your taste in décor and design, be sure to share it by investing in some talking points. Think freestanding furniture, such as a funky armchair, or vintage items like a suitcase that can be used as a coffee table or a wooden ladder that doubles as a bookshelf.
Go green
Greenery is a good way to draw the eye away from the neutral colours of the walls – and many rental properties deliberately choose white or cream. Well-placed plants add vibrancy and life to a room. All the better, if you’ve brought your favourite potted pals with you.
Cheers for souvenirs
Mementoes gathered from schooldays, on holidays or from family and friends as gifts will bring back fond memories. And having them positioned around your new property will fill the rooms with your personality.
Soft centres
Chances are your family home or last rental property had a selection of items that made everything feel warm and cosy, such as rugs and cushions. While many tenants will be comfortable having a plain wooden floor or monotone carpet, a favourite rug can add instant familiarity and cosiness. And with your own cushions and settee throw to snuggle into on a winter’s night, there really is no place like home.
A high five for hygge
Remember, hygge is not just for Christmas. The Danish term for that indefinable sense of cosiness is good year-round. The best way to achieve this is to use mood lighting, including scented candles if your landlord is cool with these, a super-comfy couch with a blanket, plump cushions and a good book.
Of course, you could also relax on your hygge sofa by looking through the very best rental properties available right now on s1homes!