Experts' five tips to make a rented property feel like home

While it can be challenging to create a comfortable, personal atmosphere in a rented property without causing financial strain or potentially upsetting the landlord, there are several affordable and non-damaging ways to make a rental feel more like home. Firstly, consult your tenancy agreement to ascertain what improvements are permissible. Many landlords may be amenable to sensible upgrades, particularly where enhancements are being made rather than fundamental changes to the property.

B&Q's CEO, Graham Bell, suggests meticulous planning as a key factor in successful renovations. He advises thoroughly considering what you wish to achieve, measuring the space accurately, and purchasing all necessary materials before commencing work. Online tutorials can offer guidance on simple DIY projects.

For those unwilling to invest in property alterations, temporary changes can be made without leaving a lasting mark. Products like stick-on tiles for the kitchen, suction storage items for the bathroom, and expandable blinds for windows are examples of renter-friendly items that can be easily removed when moving out.

Interior designer Lara Clarke emphasizes the significance of artwork in making a rental feel homely. Affordable vintage oil paintings, exhibition posters, or framed sketches can be obtained from antique markets. These can be secured using command strips to prevent damage to plaster.

Lighting is an inexpensive yet effective means of transforming a space. Bell recommends swapping bright, artificial lights for warmer, softer alternatives. He suggests experimenting with lightbulbs or strip lighting of varying tones, with strip lighting often found in kitchens being particularly versatile. Clarke further suggests layering different light sources around the room to create a cozy ambiance, and pairing lighting with soft furnishings such as floor-to-ceiling curtains and scatter cushions in diverse colours and patterns.

To make a rented house feel less transient, interior designer Lydia Lloyd recommends creating a personal corner within the property. This does not have to be expensive and can be achieved through the careful selection of accessories. Books, framed photographs, decorative objects, and houseplants can all contribute to a sense of personalization.

Additionally, Clarke suggests sourcing characterful pieces from online marketplaces or antique markets to further enhance the property's unique character. Lastly, Clarke highlights the importance of scent in creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, particularly during colder months. Scented candles, diffusers, and room sprays with fragrances such as sandalwood, cedarwood, cinnamon, and cardamom can help achieve this effect.

Pairing these with layers of texture through cushions, throws, and blankets in various materials like velvet, boucle, or chunky knits can further elevate the sense of comfort within the rented property.