Whether your rental property in Guildford is a stop-gap or part of your life plan, it’s your home for as long as you live there. You may well be starting with white tiles and magnolia walls, but there are a number of personal touches you can add to make it feel more homely. You probably don’t want to spend too much if it’s only a temporary measure, and long or short-term, you have to keep within your tenancy agreement. 

Fortunately, there are a number of ways you can bring your own personality to a temporary home. Here are some ideas:

1. Use colour

Some landlords will let you repaint the walls, providing you repaint it in neutral colours when you move out. If the magnolia is starting to get to you, it’s worth asking your property manager if you can redecorate. Just be prepared that you may need to employ a professional to re-paint at the end, so it is the same quality finish you received it in.

Even if a paint job isn’t an option, there are loads of ways to bring colour to your home. Choose furnishings and accessories in cheerful, coordinating colours. 

If the property is small, it’s a good idea to use one palette of colours throughout. Curtains and cushions in your favourite colours are an obvious choice, but remember that your toaster and tea towels can play their part too. 

2. Create a focal point

It’s easy for rooms to look purely functional when you can’t hang pictures. However, an eye-catching piece of furniture or a large ornament on a shelf can create a great focal point. If you don’t happen to own anything suitable, look in charity shops for something you could upcycle (chalk paint can transform anything!). Foraging for greenery and arranging it in a large vase is also inexpensive and effective. 

3. Light up the room

Careful lighting can transform the mood of any space. Your rental property will have overhead lighting, but side lights are a good investment, creating a totally different look for your room in the evening. 

4. Frame your photos

Print your photos and put them in frames – bring your friends and family into your home, even during lockdown. Arrange your framed photos on any flat surface, or use magnetic frames on the fridge or radiators. 

5. Nurture your plants

Plants soften harsh corners, bring nature into your living space and act as natural air fresheners too. Protect the landlord’s surfaces with planters to fit your colour scheme. Succulents and aspidistras are very low-maintenance; trailing devil’s ivy can make any shelf unit look attractive.

6. Display your possessions creatively

There are lots of ways to display your treasured possessions, even if you can’t hang them on the wall. For example, you could prop up your mirror on top of your chest of drawers, or choose pieces that are both decorative and functional, like quirky bookends. Hang decorative mobiles from curtain poles, and use suction-cup hooks to display window ornaments. The more you think about it, the more possibilities you see! 

The flat or house you rent is your home for as long as you live there, and you have every right to personalise it. If you’re not sure whether your design idea will breach the tenancy agreement, call your property manager before you take the plunge. 

Rent property in Guildford

If you’re looking for a home to rent in Guildford, or if you’re a landlord with property to let, Cobbles are here to help. Give us a call today on 01483 457 000 to get started.