When you're living in a rented place, you're often prohibited from making any large scale permanent changes. However, this doesn't mean you can't personalize your space and make it comfortable for your family's needs. Here are some great tips from Wellness by Dezign to help you make that rental space feel like a proper home.

Consult Your Lease

Chances are your rental agreement outlines what you can and can’t do in terms of making changes to your rented residence. For example, cosmetic touches such as painting or changing window coverings may or may not be addressed in your contractual agreement, but you can certainly check with your property manager to ask about any wiggle room. According to Apartment Therapy, you may not be able to change out things like flooring or fixtures without the express written permission of the property owner or property management company; however, if you are interested in doing some “value added” projects, they may be more willing to accommodate your request.

Consider Your Family’s Needs

While some rental properties are just a place to live temporarily, other times rentals are flourishing, long-term home environments where you raise kids, work from home, entertain and relax. Consider how you need your home to function and plan your decorating accordingly. For example, if you study at home, you’ll want a comfortable, dedicated quiet area. If you have kids, according to Emily A. Clark, they'll each want to have their own say in how their rooms are designed. If you like to entertain, you may want to focus your attention on common areas like great rooms, kitchens, and outdoor entertainment spaces.

Basic Decorating Tips

The way you arrange your furniture per room can give each space its own special vibe and purpose. For example, you can turn small alcoves into intimate conversation areas or reading knocks. A spare bedroom can be converted into office space, a playroom, a meditation area, or even be used for storage. Use no-damage products to hang artwork, and use area rugs, pillows, blankets, nice table settings, and decor like up lights and live plants to create a homey vibe. Outdoor patio furniture, a fire pit, and a great sound system can also help create a welcoming environment.

Home-Office Use

ZenBusiness has some great tips for those who work from home. After all, if you work from home, having a dedicated workspace is essential. In addition to your basic necessities like a desk, task chair, computer equipment, and good task lighting, having a nice piece of furniture can be a real asset. Maybe you find a great chair at a thrift store that needs a little TLC. How much you spend will depend on the type of furniture you need to be reupholstered, your fabric choice, and any special order requests. A large couch, for example, may run between $1,200-$3,500.

Put Your Stamp On It

No matter where you live, there are likely familiar sights, sounds, and smells that make it uniquely yours. Whether you’re in a rental for a month or five years, create a sense of familiarity. Maybe you burn the same type of scented candles, have a favorite lamp or throw, or you follow a similar color theme throughout. Even having the same dishes, wall art, and bathroom decor can make any environment feel like home. This can be especially important if you relocate with young kids who thrive on a feeling of continuity and stability. Renting a home is a viable option for many people, and with a bit of creativity and ingenuity, you can make the space feel uniquely yours. If you're making anything other than cosmetic changes, be sure to get written permission from your property management company to ensure you aren’t fined for any unauthorized changes at the end of your lease.

Design Well to Live Well

Wellness by Dezign offers holistic and integrative interior design tips and strategies to enhance human health and wellbeing in real estate. Let us know how we can help!