Renting doesn’t mean your space can’t feel like yours. With a few clever tweaks and creative ideas, you can transform any rental into a cosy, stylish home that feels completely you… without upsetting your landlord. Here are 10 ways to make your rental space feel like home.
1. Play with lighting
Say goodbye to harsh overhead lighting and hello to warm, inviting vibes. Add floor lamps, table lamps or even fairy lights to soften the mood in your space. Swap out standard lightbulbs for warm-toned LEDs, and if your landlord allows it, change lampshades to something more your style. Check out Pooky and Tala for inspo.
2. Add your own soft furnishings
Rugs, throws and cushions are your best friends when it comes to injecting some personality into your home. They’re perfect for layering colour and texture and can even cover less-than-stylish flooring. Plus, they’re easy to pack up and take with you when you move. La Redoute has great textiles at reasonable prices.
3. Create a gallery wall (without nails)
Just because you’re renting doesn’t mean your walls have to stay bare. Use removable adhes
ive hooks or strips to hang art, prints or framed photos. Don’t fancy committing to a layout? Lean framed prints against the wall on shelves for a laid-back, ‘gallery’ feel. We love Redbubble for cool artwork.
4. Green it up
Houseplants can breathe life into any room… literally. From hanging plants in the kitchen to leafy greens in your living room, plants are an easy and affordable way to make your space feel fresh and alive. If you don’t have green fingers, start with low-maintenance options like snake plants or pothos. Monsteras are hard to kill, too. Try Bloombox Club and Patch.5. It’s all in the detail
Swapping out details like drawer handles, cabinet knobs or even curtain rails can make a big difference. Choose pieces that reflect your style, and when it’s time to move, you can simply reinstall the originals and take yours with you. Plank Hardware and Etsy do good selections.
6. Make it smell like home
Room scents can do wonders for creating a comforting, homely vibe. Try aromatherapy candles or diffusers in your favourite fragrances. And don’t forget incense which has come a long way since the hippie days and can make your living space smell like a spa. Think lavender for relaxation, citrus for energy… just pick what suits your mood. Our current faves are Vyrao and Moult.
7. Layer your bedding
Your bed is probably the focal point of your bedroom, so invest in good quality sheets, duvet covers and throws or quilts that feel luxurious. Layering different fabrics and textures like cotton, linen or velvet can create a boutique-hotel feel that’s all yours. Find long lasting bedlinen at Dip & Doze and Bedfolk.
8. Set up a statement corner
If you’re restricted from making big changes, go small. Dedicate one area, like a shelf, a corner or a windowsill, to your favourite things. Add a mix of objects like books, candles, photos or personal mementoes to make the space feel more ‘you.’ We get our inspiration from LIving Etc magazine.
9. Bring in mirrors
Mirrors not only make your space look bigger but also reflect light. Whether you hang one up (if allowed) or lean a freestanding mirror against a wall, it’s an easy way to brighten up your rental’s style. Rockett St George has a great range.
10. Rent furniture that fits your vibe
Let’s face it: the furniture in rented property isn’t always, well, your vibe. That’s where Poppy comes in. Whether you’re looking for sleek, modern pieces or something more classic, Poppy lets you rent furniture that feels right for your home… and your life. Need to switch things up? With Poppy, you can swap or upgrade your furniture whenever your style evolves or your needs change. It’s a grown-up way to do furniture, without the hassle or the big commitment.
Ready to make your rented space feel like home? Browse our collection at Poppy today and find furniture that grows with you.