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

Transforming a rented property to feel more like home doesn't necessarily require extensive renovations. With some clever changes, even an uninspiring property can be spruced up. Experts have offered five tips to achieve this without significant financial investment or risking a landlord's displeasure.

Firstly, consult your tenancy agreement before making any permanent alterations. Many landlords may be open to sensible improvements, especially where modifications enhance rather than fundamentally change the space. However, obtaining permission first is crucial to avoid potential disputes and financial losses when moving out.

Secondly, meticulous planning is essential. The biggest mistake people make is insufficient preparation. Decide what you want to achieve, measure the space accurately, and purchase all necessary items before starting. Online tutorials can be invaluable for simple DIY projects.

If you prefer not to alter the property itself, focus on temporary changes that can accompany you when you move. Renter-friendly products include stick-on tiles for the kitchen, suction storage items for the bathroom, and expandable blinds that can be fitted without drilling.

Artwork plays a significant role in making a rental feel homely. Interior designer Lara Clarke suggests using affordable vintage oil paintings, exhibition posters, or framed sketches. Secure these items with command strips to avoid damaging the walls. Lighting is another quick way to transform a space. Landlords often provide bright lights, but swapping them for warmer tones can drastically alter the atmosphere. Experiment with different lightbulbs or strip lighting to create a softer glow.

Clarke emphasizes the importance of multiple light sources around the room to create a cozy ambiance. Additionally, pairing lighting with soft furnishings like floor-to-ceiling curtains and scatter cushions in various colors and patterns can enhance the cozy feel.

To add a personal touch and make the rental feel more permanent, create a corner that reflects your personality. This doesn't have to be expensive; a few carefully chosen accessories can make a significant difference. Books, framed photographs, decorative objects, and houseplants can tell your story and lend a sense of lived-in authenticity to even a temporary space. Unique pieces from online marketplaces or antique markets can also make a space feel curated over time.

Lastly, consider adding scent to create a warm, inviting atmosphere, especially as temperatures drop. Candles, diffusers, and room sprays can help achieve this. Scented fragrances like sandalwood, cedarwood, cinnamon, and cardamom are particularly effective in creating a comforting ambiance. Layering textures with cushions, throws, and blankets further enhances the cozy atmosphere by incorporating materials like velvet, boucle, or chunky knits.