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On the JJ Barnes Blog, if you’re a renter, like I am, but want to change up your interiors, I am sharing my top tips for rent friendly decor that will let you make changes without damaging your walls.
As a renter, you may feel like you want to make your home feel like your space, but the fear of losing your security deposit can hold you back from making significant changes. It’s like wanting to paint a masterpiece on a canvas you know you’ll have to hand back.
However, just because you’re renting it doesn’t mean your home has to be devoid of personality. There are ways to decorate your rental without causing irreversible damage so you can personalise your living space to reflect your style while still respecting your lease agreement.
In this post, with the help of Daniel Ufland, co-founder of interior styling platform Flitch, I’ll share my top tips for rent-friendly decor. So, let’s dive in and discover how you can create a home you love, even if you’re just renting.
Top Tips For Rent Friendly Decor
1. Removable Adhesive Hooks
Removable adhesive hooks are a renter’s best friend. These versatile tools allow you to hang lightweight decor items like pictures, mirrors, and small shelves without damaging the walls. No more worrying about violating your lease agreement or losing your security deposit!
With adhesive hooks, you have the freedom to personalize your rented space without committing to permanent changes. Experiment with different layouts, styles, and arrangements to create a home that truly reflects your personality. The best part? When it’s time to move out, simply remove the hooks, and your walls will be left pristine.
I have these hooks on my staircase for hanging coats, in the bathroom for hanging a towel, and on the walls for hanging pictures. They’re so useful and I highly recommend.
By utilising removable adhesive hooks, renters can easily remove and reposition their decorations without leaving residue behind or causing any lasting damage, making them an ideal choice for those seeking to personalise their living spaces responsibly.
-Daniel Ufland
2. Temporary Wallpaper
Temporary wallpaper is a game-changer for renters and anyone who wants to add a pop of color or pattern to their walls without the commitment of traditional wallpaper. This innovative product uses a peel-and-stick adhesive backing, making it incredibly easy to apply and remove. Simply peel off the backing, stick the wallpaper to the wall, and smooth out any wrinkles. When you’re ready for a change, peel it off just as easily, leaving your walls looking as good as new.
With temporary wallpaper, you can experiment with different styles, colors, and patterns without worrying about damaging your walls or losing your security deposit. It’s a hassle-free way to transform your space and create a home that truly reflects your personality.
I’m very fortunate that my landlady is happy for me to paint the walls of my rental home, but perhaps once everywhere is bright and neutral, some funky temporary wallpaper would mean I could make the girls’ bedroom funkier without worrying about needing to repaint if we move!
You can enjoy the benefits of personalised decor with temporary wallpaper, knowing you can revert to the original state of the rental property as needed.
-Daniel Ufland
3. Peel-and-Stick Tiles
Peel-and-stick tiles are a renter-friendly way to upgrade your floors or backsplash without the hassle of traditional installation methods. These self-adhesive tiles are easy to apply to clean, flat surfaces. Simply peel off the backing, stick the tile in place, and smooth out any wrinkles. No grout or special tools required!
With peel-and-stick tiles, you can quickly and easily transform your space without damaging the underlying surface. When your lease is up, simply peel off the tiles, and your floors or backsplash will be left looking like new. It’s a convenient and affordable way to add a touch of style to your rental without the commitment of permanent changes.
I have started applying these to my floors, and they look absolutely fantastic, and I plan to gradually move to the bathroom floors and walls too. I’m not very experienced in DIY but I’m turning my hallway and kitchen floor into a beautiful and fresh style without the stress and expense of hiring a builder!
4. Tension Rods
Tension rods are a renter’s dream. These versatile tools provide a wall-friendly way to hang curtains, shower curtains, or lightweight tapestries without the need for drilling or permanent installation. Simply place the tension rod between two surfaces, such as walls or inside a window frame, and adjust the spring mechanism to create a secure hold.
With tension rods, you can easily add privacy, style, or functionality to your rental space. They’re perfect for hanging curtains, creating a makeshift closet organizer, or even separating different areas within a room. Best of all, when you’re ready to move out, simply remove the tension rod, and your walls will be left undamaged.
I plan on using a tension rod to hang a curtain in the middle of my daughters’ bedroom to give them a sense of privacy and personal space as they grow up, while still being able to push it aside and play together when they want to.
5. Ceiling-Mounted Planters
Ceiling-mounted planters offer a stylish and space-saving solution for incorporating greenery into your rental home. These planters are suspended from the ceiling using adhesive hooks designed for temporary or lightweight items. This means you can enjoy the benefits of indoor gardening without damaging your walls or violating your lease agreement.
Another option is to use hanging planters with adjustable straps. These planters can be easily suspended from existing fixtures like ceiling fans or lights, providing a flexible and convenient way to add greenery to your space.
Whether you choose ceiling-mounted planters or hanging planters, both options allow you to bring the beauty of nature indoors without taking up valuable floor space.
While traditionally I’ve been hopeless with all things nature, I’m currently busy attempting to get better. I’ve got succulents in my living room that so far haven’t died, and I’ve recently been gifted aloe vera plants that are residing in my kitchen. If I have finally developed green fingers, time will tell, this sounds like a beautful idea.
Renters can enjoy the benefits of indoor plants with ceiling-mounted planters, knowing they can effortlessly remove them when the lease ends.
-Daniel Ufland
Rent Friendly Decor
By incorporating these renter-friendly decor ideas, you can transform your rental space into a personalized sanctuary without worrying about damaging the property or violating your lease agreement. From removable hooks to peel-and-stick tiles, there are countless ways to add your personal touch without leaving a mark.
With a little creativity and ingenuity, you can create a home that truly reflects your style. So, don’t let your rental status hold you back. Embrace these renter-friendly decor tips and start making your space your own.
About Flitch
Flitch is an online interior styling platform that offers a personalised furniture shopping experience tailored to individual tastes, budgets, and requirements. Founded by Uriel and Daniel, who aimed to revolutionise the furniture shopping process, Flitch promises ease and convenience by handling search and comparison across 100+ UK retailers. Additionally, the company contributes 10% of all profits to charity, reflecting its commitment to social responsibility.
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