How to Make Your Rental Flat Feel More Human

Your home is your sanctuary; a place to relax and unwind to the fullest. It’s somewhere that you should love to be.

However, it can be challenging to make your home feel truly yours when you’re a renter.

Many landlords don’t allow their tenants to do things like repaint the walls, and if you live in a furnished property, it can feel less like home when you’re surrounded by someone else’s belongings.

There are ways to get around this – and do so in a way that makes your place feel cozy and lived in rather than a showhome.

4 Ways to Make Your Rental Flat Feel More Human

1. Choose art that means something to you

Art is a great way to add a personal touch to a space because we all have different tastes and preferences. Some love soft, rural landscapes; others prefer flashy canvases of their favorite cities.

Some like ‘traditional’ realistic pieces and others find abstract art far more interesting.

Art doesn’t have to be eye-watering and expensive either. Look out for artists on websites like Etsy, or check out open studios or independent shops in your local area. And once you find a piece of art that makes your heart sing, make sure you get it professionally framed.

As the experts at SohoFrames note: “Framing art should not be based on its value, but whether you would like it displayed in your home for years to come.” However, be careful you don’t void the terms of your contract when you hang it up (like using nails when you’re now allowed).

Check out these renter-friendly ways to hang art.

2. Create ambiance with thoughtful lighting

It’s incredible how much difference lighting can make to a home. For example, a vibrant lamp can add color to an otherwise neutral space, while something like a lava lamp will immediately add a fun, quirky touch.

There are also so many styles to choose from such as Art Deco, rustic, glamorous, industrial, and so on.

But rather than buying any lamp or ceiling light you like the look of, think about how you want the lighting to function and what fixture will best achieve this.

The three main types of lighting are ambient lighting (provides an overall glow), task lighting (for things like reading or cooking), and accent lighting (to highlight things like art or interesting architectural features).

In a living room for, instance, you may want a statement pendant light for ambiance, an adjustable floor lamp for tasks, and candles for accents.

3. Go hard on creature comforts

Think cushions, blankets, rugs, poufs, and anything else that will make your home feel cozy and comfortable. As well as adding warmth, these can also make interesting decorative features.

You can add depth by choosing pieces from the same color palette but in slightly different shades, or bring a sense of play by clashing colors and introducing patterns. Soft fabrics like velvet and faux fur will help you feel snug and also make a stylish statement.

4. Bring the outside in

Plants will immediately make a home more inviting. As symbols of the natural world, they’ll make a room feel fresh and soothing. There are also lots of physical and emotional benefits associated with houseplants.

According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), research has found that plants can help improve air quality, reduce blood pressure, alleviate fatigue and headaches, improve mood, fight stress, and boost productivity.

If you aren’t confident caring for plants, the RHS recommends the following for beginners:

• Dracaena marginata (v) AGM (Madagascar dragon tree)
• Ficus elastica (India rubber tree, rubber plant)
• Hedera helix (English ivy, common ivy)
• Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’ (Boston fern)
• Sansevieria trifasciata (mother-in-law’s tongue)

Conclusion

Transforming your rental flat into a personalized and inviting space is entirely possible with the right approach. By understanding your space, personalizing the walls, choosing furniture wisely, and incorporating sensory elements, you can create a home that truly reflects your personality and style.

FAQs

1. Can I personalize my rental without damaging it?
   • Yes, there are plenty of renter-friendly decor options available, such as removable wallpaper, temporary wall decals, and furniture slipcovers.
2. What are some budget-friendly ways to decorate?
   • DIY projects, thrifty finds from second-hand stores, and prioritizing investments in quality, essential items are great ways to decorate on a budget.
3. How can I make a small flat feel larger?
   • Use light colors, mirrors to reflect light, multipurpose furniture, and strategic storage solutions to maximize space and create the illusion of openness.
4. What are quick ways to add personality to my flat?
   • Displaying personal mementos, incorporating unique artwork and decor, and adding plants and greenery are quick ways to personalize your space.
5. How often should I change my decor?
   • It’s up to personal preference, but changing decor seasonally or whenever you feel inspired can keep your space feeling fresh and exciting.