Six ways you can still decorate when renting

Renting from a landlord doesn't have to mean cutting back on your own style. Take a look at our top tips on how to achieve a great finish without losing your deposit


With rent prices rising, it's time to get inventive and explore the different ways you can make the most of your rented property.

Whether it's popping up some of your own artwork, or getting experimental with your wall coverings, we've teamed up with Wallpaper Week to give you our top six landlord-friendly tips to give you a touch of temporary style.

1

Temporary wallpaper

Scandi-style removable wallpaper
Scandi-style removable wallpaper, from £29.97 - © Livettes on Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/uk/market/livettes_wallpaper

That's right, wallpaper doesn't have to be permenant! Strippable wallpaper is designed to stick on the walls and peel off easily in one strip without leaving marks, making it a brilliant option for renters. Try the Superfresco Easy range for a choice of stylish and easy-to-hang prints.

If your Landlord is against the idea entirely, bring the same pops of pattern and colour with wallpapered plywood panels. You can lean these against walls or use no-hole picture hanging strips for a similar effect.

2

Rugs

Rani rug
Rani rug, from £499 - © West Elm - http://www.westelm.co.uk/

Carpets and flooring in rented properties usually leave a lot to be desired. Invest in large rugs to hide ugly floors and stains, as these will add character and can be taken with you when you move. Not only this, but the rugs will protect the carpets and your deposit during your tenancy.

When choosing a rug, think about your furniture – if you have a round dining table, try a larger circular rug to sit underneath.

3

Statement cupboards

Marrakesh cupboard knob
Brass Marrkesh green cupboard knob, £2.50 each - © Knobbles and bobbles - https://www.knobblesandbobbles.com/

As a renter, you don’t have a say on the choice of fixtures and fittings but, to put your stamp on the property, you can give your wardrobe, chest of drawers and kitchen cupboards temporary statement handles. It’s a little change which will make a big difference to the room’s appearance.

These can be bought new from most home stores, or you can pick up vintage finds from antiques shops. Just make sure you keep all your old fixings in one bag, ready to reinstall when you leave.

4

Alternative lighting

Pink fringed light shade
Lipsy easy-fit fringed light shade, £40 - © Next - https://www3.next.co.uk/

The right lighting can completely change the look and feel of a space. As long as you keep hold of the originals, there’s no reason not to switch up your lamps and shades for something more striking.

5

Houseplants

Interiors house plants

Plants are a great short-term spruce up. It’s sometimes difficult to make a rented house a home, but a few indoor plants around the place will help. Try succulents lined up on a shelf, jarred herbs in the kitchen or a big snake plant next to your sofa – all in a mix of different pots.

6

Artwork

Interior gallery wall

Artwork will add a focal point to each room and is a simple way to bring your personality to a space. You don’t need to drill lots of nails into the wall to introduce statement art. Use no-hole picture strips or prop frames up on surfaces such as shelving and bookcases. Mix and match styles, including lettering prints and screenprints, for a contemporary look.


For more information and interiors advice, visit www.wallpaperweek.com.

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