Renting but Want It to Feel Like Home – Renting can be tricky when you’re trying to make a space feel like yours. You finally move in, full of ideas, only to realise you can’t paint, drill, or so much as sneeze near the walls without worrying about your deposit. Been there.
When we moved into our current place, I was determined not to let the plain white walls dampen my spirits. I wanted our home to feel warm, personal, and — dare I say — stylish, even within the limitations of renting. That’s where a little creativity (and some well-chosen wall art) came in.
Renting but Want It to Feel Like Home
Working with What You’ve Got
First things first: embrace the space rather than fighting it. Our flat came with bright white walls and beige carpet — not exactly inspiring, but also a great blank canvas. I knew that with a few thoughtful touches, I could create something that still felt homely.
I started by introducing some soft furnishings — textured throws, patterned cushions, and a few houseplants. But the biggest transformation came when I added some framed prints. It’s amazing how much character a few pictures can bring, especially when you’re working within rental restrictions.
Hanging Art Without the Stress
The best discovery? You don’t have to hammer a single nail. I used a mix of adhesive hooks and picture strips (lifesavers for renters) to hang my wall art without leaving a mark. The whole thing took an afternoon — and instantly turned our living room from “temporary flat” to “actual home”.
I went for a mix of abstract designs, calming landscapes, and one fun typography print that makes me smile every time I walk past it. Mixing different frame sizes and colours helped give it that collected-over-time look, rather than something too “matchy”.
And the best bit? When we eventually move, I can just peel them off, pack them up, and take everything with me. Win-win.
Small Changes, Big Difference
What I’ve realised is that you don’t need to own a place to make it feel special. Renting can sometimes feel a bit transient, but adding art and personal touches makes a huge difference. A few pieces of carefully chosen wall art can tell your story — without ever needing to repaint or remodel.
Our home now feels warm, lived-in, and uniquely ours, even with all the landlord’s rules. And it’s such a nice feeling to walk in at the end of the day and actually like what you see.
A Little Black Friday Treat
If you fancy giving your own rented space a bit of love, there’s a brilliant Black Friday offer on right now. Use the code LLIBRE to get 40% off prints (personalised prints and canvases excluded) at Desenio, valid all through November.
It’s the perfect time to refresh a few walls, add a pop of colour, or finally create that gallery wall you’ve been pinning ideas for — without spending a fortune.
Making a Rental Feel Like Home
Renting doesn’t have to mean living with blank walls or soulless spaces. With a little imagination (and the right prints), you can make your home feel warm, welcoming, and entirely yours — even if it’s just for now.
So grab a few new favourites while the Black Friday offer’s on, stick them up, and transform your space. It’s proof that a rental can feel just as personal and inviting as anywhere else — all it takes is a touch of creativity, and the right wall art.
About Debz Louise
Debz Louise is a UK-based lifestyle expert and the founder of several lifestyle blogs, including Wannabe Princess and Under 5s. Specializing in everything from interior design and home renovation to body-positive fashion and early years development,