HOW TO DECORATE A RENTAL WITHOUT UPSETTING YOUR LANDLORD

Decorating a rental home can be a delicate balance — you want to make the space feel like your own, but you also must respect the fact that it isn’t technically yours. Many tenants hesitate to personalise their rented space, fearing they’ll lose their deposit or face disapproval from their landlord. The good news? With a little creativity and care, it’s possible to decorate your rental beautifully, without causing damage or breaking the rules.

1. Try Removable Solutions

The market is full of clever temporary design options that make it easy to add personality to your rental without causing damage. Removable wallpaper is one of the most popular choices — perfect for creating a feature wall or adding pattern to small spaces like hallways or alcoves. When it’s time to move out, it peels away cleanly, leaving the paint underneath intact.

You can also try peel-and-stick tiles, ideal for updating kitchens or bathrooms. They come in a huge variety of finishes — from marble and terrazzo to metro tiles — and can completely refresh a splashback or countertop area without the need for grout or adhesive.

Vinyl floor stickers are another excellent option for renters looking to revive tired flooring. They can be applied over existing tiles or laminate to introduce pattern, colour or warmth, and removed easily when you leave.

If you wish to change the colour of your walls but can’t paint, consider applying lining paper peel-and-stick— these can be painted over in any colour you like, allowing you to enjoy a custom wall finish without altering the original paintwork. When your tenancy ends, simply peel them off to reveal the untouched surface beneath.

Finally, for smaller details, peel-and-stick wall panels or faux mouldings can be used to add character to plain walls, giving you that designer finish without breaching your tenancy agreement.

2. Use Art Without Nails

Artwork is one of the easiest ways to make a space feel like yours. Instead of drilling holes, use adhesive strips, picture ledges or even lean framed prints against the wall for a relaxed, modern look. This keeps your walls intact and your landlord happy.

Desenio.co.uk

3. Add Colour with Accessories

If your walls are off-limits, bring colour in through soft furnishings. Cushions, throws, bedding and curtains can introduce warmth and vibrancy. Layering different fabrics and tones adds depth and personality while remaining completely reversible when you move out.

Also, you can focus on furniture. Choose statement pieces that express your style — a bold sofa, a unique armchair or a beautiful rug can transform a plain room instantly. Furniture can add colour, texture and personality without touching a wall or floor.

Pooky Lighting

4. Light It Right

Lighting can change everything. Swapping out a lampshade or using floor and table lamps can instantly alter the mood of a room — and you can take them with you when you move. Avoid hardwiring new fixtures unless your landlord agrees, but don’t underestimate the power of portable lighting to make your home feel warm and inviting.

5. Bring the Outside In

Plants add life and freshness to any space. Whether it’s a large statement plant or a collection of small succulents, greenery instantly softens interiors and makes them feel more welcoming. Plus, plants are portable, so you can take them with you when you move.

Kentia Palm from Plant Drop

Decorating a rental doesn’t mean compromising on style. With some imagination, a few temporary tricks, and good communication with your landlord, you can create a home that feels entirely your own — and still hand it back in perfect condition when it’s time to move on.

Always Ask First

Before making any changes — no matter how small they may seem — remember that it’s important to get your landlord’s written permission. Even temporary adjustments such as removable wallpaper, shelving or new light fittings should be discussed in advance. T

Equally, you should always be prepared to return the property to its original condition before moving out. That means filling in holes, repainting walls back to their original colour and removing any temporary fixtures.

Being transparent and respectful throughout the process helps maintain a good relationship with your landlord — and ensures you’ll get your full deposit back.

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ABOUT MIKA DESIGN STUDIO

Mika Design Studio is an interior design studio on a mission to make a positive and meaningful impact on our clients’ lives; inspire them on the use of creativity and sustainable materials to create authentic interiors that organically evolve with them.

We are based in Royal Leamington Spa (Warwickshire, UK) but also operate online nationwide. We provide Consultation and Home Staging services for properties to sell, Re-design & Styling services for serviced accommodation/buy-to-let properties, and Online Interior Design for single bespoke rooms.

Visit our website to find out more about us.