by James Hutley 
Make It Yours: 7 Rental-Friendly Upgrades That Add Style Without the Commitment
A rental may not feel like home at first, but that does not mean it can’t after a few upgrades that won’t upset your landlord and result in losing your deposit. With the right changes, your rental can make you feel at home.
We have a list of seven recommended upgrades to help you get started.
- Refresh with Sleek Hardware
Small changes, like cabinet handles and drawer pulls, can transform a room. Choose hardware in contemporary shapes and finishes (like matte black or brushed brass) to add a fresh, modern touch. It’s a simple swap you can make and reverse quickly if needed, giving kitchens and bathrooms an instant lift. - Add Character with Open Shelving
We have found open shelves placed against the wall or used as room dividers are a stylish way to store personal items without the need for bulky furniture like tables or cupboards to store in. - Install Smart Lighting
Smart bulbs are energy efficient, and the lighting can be adjusted with the use of an app which allows you to change the lighting to fit the mood of the room. - Create a Patio Garden
Where rentals have balconies or patios, you may consider investing in a few pots that are easy to care for with plants like succulents or ferns. The greenery of plants brightens up the space and is associated with well-being. Another creative idea for those who love plants is to use window boxes or railing planters for outdoor patios and balconies needing a splash of colour. - Use Mirrors to Expand Space
Adding mirrors is a great way to make a room feel open and spacious. Mirrors in the right place can bring more light into a room. Placing a combination of a large and several small mirrors along a wall adds a decorative effect while being functional. They are easy to take down when you move out. - Experiment with a New Wall Colour
Painting one wall in a room a different colour, like charcoal or a deep grey, creates a feeling that the room is spacious while adding character and warmth. We recommend dark, neutral colours for a refined look, and painting a single wall minimises cost and effort. - Try Peethat’sStick Wallpaper
Adding wallpaper is another way to make a space feel more like home. Look for wallpaper with elegant textures or bold patterns to add your personality to the house. Wallpaper can be used in kitchens, bathrooms or bedrooms; when it comes time to move, you simply peel it off.
Getting Landlord Approval is a Must.
When approaching your landlord with any changes, highlight how the updates will add value to the property in the long term and how stylish, well-thought-out changes can appeal to future tenants.
Which upgrade will you try first? Make your rental feel like home with stylish changes that work for everyone.
