Temporary Style: 8 Ways to Add Personality To Your Rental

If you are a renter, it can be hard to feel a sense of permanency and personalization in your home. The layout, flooring, and most appliances are non-changeable elements and some landlords put limitations on other decor like paint, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other ways to make your space feel like home. Here are some great ways to bring your unique style to your rental.

Wall Coverings

If you can’t paint your walls but still want to add color, you’ve got options. Wallpaper is making a big comeback and is easier to apply than ever. Consider removable wallpaper, murals, or wall decals to dress up bland walls. In the kitchen, consider temporary backsplash tile, which has an easy peel and stick application process.

Lighting

Lighting may not seem like an obvious option, but you should consider it an investment. Check your lease or with your landlord to see if removal and/or replacement of lighting is an option (if so, retain the fixtures so that you can reinstall them when you move out and take your hand-chosen lighting elements with you). For a simpler alternative, choose lamps or plug-in lighting to add style to your space. Choose from sconces, pendants, chandeliers, and even under-cabinet lighting.

Area Rugs

Every renter has been cursed with terrible flooring at one point or another. In this case, area rugs can save your space! Rugs come in so many shapes, sizes, and colors that they are an excellent way to integrate color and personality into a room. It’s no longer a fashion faux pas to layer an area rug over carpet, just be sure to do it properly. It should complement the carpet color, be the correct size, and pull the room together. Here is a great guide to buying area rugs. 

Hardware

You can’t install new cabinetry in your kitchen and bathroom, but you can swap out the hardware. New hardware styles bring so much flair with tones in brushed brass, matte black, and polished silver. Remember to retain the original hardware to reinstall upon move out.

Bar Cart

Just because you’re in a rental doesn’t mean you can't be a luxe host. Consider a bar cart for alcohol, espresso, or to combine with a beverage center, wine cooler, or a Kegerator. Choose a cart that suits your style and will fit everything you need to be a great host.

Decor

Decor and furniture express your personal style perhaps more than anything else. For your walls, consider creating a gallery wall of photos, or choose art, tapestries, or wall sculptures. 

Storage

With space in a rental often being minimal, renters are often forced to get creative with how and where they store items. One smart move is using cabinet and pantry organizers to maximize your kitchen space. Stylish shelving can act as furniture or a room divider as well as additional storage. Consider a storage ottoman that doubles as a footrest or coffee table for blankets and pillows or perhaps an entryway bench for footwear, bags, and coats. Use baskets to contain loose items and keep shelves and countertops looking neat. Here is a great article with tips for getting organized.

Bathroom

Everyone needs a space to pamper themselves and a rental bathroom should be no different. Personalize your bathroom with hardware, lighting, and decor like shower curtains, rugs and accessories. Don’t disregard the shower itself. Swap out your basic rental shower head for a shower panel system or a hand-held shower for a more customized experience. Replacing your bath faucet may seem like a daunting task but the visual effect is absolutely worth the effort. A sleek matte black or traditional oil-rubbed bronze can really pop in such a small setting. Something many renters overlook that is exceedingly easy to replace is the toilet seat. Choose a compatible seat or splurge on a bidet model to spruce up this space. For storage, consider over-the-toilet racks or floor cabinets. 

Express Yourself

Don’t let a temporary situation keep you from expressing your decor style. Follow these tips to bring personality to your rental home without violating the lease.