From flattering lighting to pretty plants, these trinkets will transform your house into a home
In the UK more than 13 million people are currently renting from a landlord – that’s one in five of us! Thankfully, you don’t need a mortgage to make your rented house feel like home, just a little inspiration and time to put your own style on the space.
From rugs that can conceal dodgy flooring, to big blooming plants and wall stickers for the nursery, we’ve got you covered with ten of the best products that won’t break your budget. Just don’t forget to take them all with you when you move out.
Lamps
Lighting is key to setting the mood in any room so don’t feel you have to put up with unflattering fluorescent spotlights. Floor lamps, table lamps and even swapping (and safely storing) a lacklustre lampshade for a modern stylish one can make all the difference. Also, replacing harsh wattage bulbs with lighter filament ones can cast a warm glow in any room.
Rugs
Indoor rugs are the ultimate furnishing to cover up rubbish laminate flooring, dodgy stains on carpets or rough floorboards, while hard-wearing outdoor rugs can make any outside space seem homier. Keep in mind that a round, plain rug can make a room feel more spacious, while a square or oblong rug with a pattern can pull together a larger space.
ANYDAY Lined Navy Curtains, from £35
Curtains can hide a multitude of sins, from covering up ugly blinds, to replacing existing rental ones completely. If you’re taking down an old set that belongs to your landlord, we’d suggest clearing it with them first and then storing the curtains safely in a vacuum pack bag until you need to put them back up. This floor-length navy set will add a touch of class to any space during the day and give off major cosy vibes at night.
Villa Nova Jungle Wall Stickers, £56.50
If you’re trying to jazz up a kid’s bedroom or nursery then stick-on wallpaper, vinyl or transfers are brilliant ways to introduce pattern and colour to plain walls. They can easily be taken off and swapped when you feel like a change or it’s time to move out. This sweet set will be perfect for your little monkey.
Kvell Boto Ottoman Pouffe, £49
Furniture is always a tricky conundrum in a rental property, but it doesn’t mean you can’t invest in a few pieces that’ll be useful while you live there and easy to take with you when you leave. We love this green velvet ottoman pouffe which triples up as a spare seat for extra guests, a footrest when you’re binge-watching a box set, and a roomy storage space all the time.
East End Prints, Ani Vidotto Framed Print, £70
Many landlords don’t want you to hang things on the walls, (although if yours approves these removeable picture hanging strips are excellent) but that doesn’t mean you can’t still fill your home with prints and pictures you love. Invest in photo frames to dot around any shelves or flat surfaces, while larger printed art can be leant against walls for maximum impact. We love this floral piece which comes pre-framed.
ANYWAY Freestanding Mirror, £70
A failsafe way to make a space look bigger and bounce light around any dark corners. While you likely won’t want to hang a mirror on the wall, there’s nothing to stop you plumping for a freestanding one. Enter this brilliant and affordable cheval full-length mirror. It’s freestanding, easy to set up and requires very little space.
The Little Botanical Monstera Ceramic, £33
Plants are the easiest way to liven up your living space so go wild dotting them around your house. If you’re not particularly green fingered opt for artificial versions and be as creative as you want with colourful and textured plant pots.
ANYDAY tassel cushion cover, £15
Swapping cushion covers with the seasons is an inexpensive way to instantly change the feel and look of a room and put your own personal stamp on it. There are so many designs out there that the world is your oyster but we’d suggest having a few statement designs in amongst plainer options.
ANYDAY, Elevation Throw, £35
Add this soft grey and white geometric throw to an old armchair or drape it over your rental sofa to hide the sag. It’ll look chic and keep you cosy at the same time – plus it’s machine washable.
