There are more renters in the UK than ever before and there are also more options available to tenants who want to make their property feel like home. For both landlords and tenants, it is important that a rental property feels cosy, well-designed and homely. With the rise of generation rent, there are more and more alternatives to traditional decorating and these simple steps should help make your property feel like home. It is also essential that you and your landlord agree on the rules of the property before you start decorating. Your contract should detail what is allowed in the property, and if there are any queries, it is better to ask first.

Look at Temporary Decorations

Removable wallpaper – also known as peel and stick wallpaper – is a great option for adding some bright patterns to your rental home. This is designed with renters in mind and will leave no damage to the wall once you move. It is also a lot easier than wallpapering. Other options for decorating without damage include washi tape, removable chalkboard wallpaper, self-adhesive tiles and wall hangings. Command hooks are also a great way to hang things up in your rental property, without using nails or screws. You can also use these to hang display shelves, rails and caging, giving you extra storage space.

Find Key Pieces You Love

Though many rental properties are furnished, you can still add some furniture of your own. If space is limited it is worth looking for a few key pieces full of personality that you can take with you when your tenancy is up. Just make sure you keep hold of any fittings that came with the property, so you can return it to how it was when you leave. Interior designer Annabelle Holland told The Independent “Don’t be put off buying key pieces like art or furniture just because you’re renting. You can take these to a future home but do choose versatile items. If you’re currently renting a big loft space and want a big sofa, think about a modular sofa that can be broken up and fit into smaller spaces in your next home. Invest in lamps, or even just funky lampshades to place over the landlord’s lamps to brighten up your space”. From a bold armchair to a glitzy chandelier, you can find unique home pieces that will add loads of character to the room.

Choose a Property That Matches Your Style

This might have been difficult a few decades ago, but the demands of renters have changed the market, with rental properties now offering beautiful design and luxurious interiors. High end new developments by property companies like RW Invest feature stunning décor and designer furniture packs which make rental properties feel coordinated and stylish. There are far more types of rental property available, so it is worth looking around for one with a style you feel comfortable in.

Embrace Fabric

Fabric can be a life saver in a rental apartment, from quirky cushions to bold statement rugs. Soft furnishings are a great way to add colour and personality to a space, no matter how plain it might be. Often carpets can be an issue in rental properties so choose some bright and colourful rugs to protect the carpet or cover up previous tenants’ mistakes. Hanging curtains to divide spaces in studio apartments is another great way to make your rental apartment seem like home. You can also easily replace the curtains in a rental property.