Five renter-friendly upgrades to spruce up your space without losing your deposit

When your dream home is out of reach and you're a tenant with a flair for design, it can be easy to let your decorating dreams slip.

Particularly when rental properties come with certain rules that must be adhered to, and restrictions on what alterations you can make... being a home décor enthusiast can be a bit tricky.

Fortunately, there are some brilliant tricks and deposit-friendly ways to beautify your space, without the need for hammering and drilling – so you can leave it in the same state as you found it.

Spruce up your flooring

"If the flooring doesn't suit your taste, but you're unable to alter it, investing in a large decorative rug can make a massive difference," suggests Chloe Dacosta, design manager at Blinds 2go and Curtains 2go. "A statement rug has the ability to transform the entire look of your interior décor."

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She says decorative patterns in blues and greens can help add colour and character; while cosy, fluffy rugs can provide warmth and comfort. "Especially as we approach autumn and winter."

Display your favourite artwork – without nails

As Dacosta highlights, drilling holes into walls is usually a big no-no for renters (always check your tenancy agreement). But she says it's impossible to underestimate how much artwork and photographs can make your space feel like home.

To hang pictures without causing damage, she recommends picture hanging strips and tape for damage-free decorating that won't bust your deposit.

"Use these to add large, loud pieces to bare walls – and fill your home with pictures of your cherished memories. When it's time to remove, simply unstick the picture and peel off the strip – leaving no mess behind. Easy."

Dress your windows

Renting your home doesn't mean you can't benefit from the style and practicality of beautiful window dressings, highlights Dacosta.

"No-drill blinds have an adhesive fitting system that can be installed in minutes for a sleek, cordless finish. Allowing you to control the light in your room, but also elevating your décor."

She continues to explain that stick-on blinds don't just add more personality and flair to your room, but they also provide light and heat control benefits.

"Helping to keep your home cool in the summer, yet warm in the winter – a must when creating your own cosy space."

Removable wallpaper

Nick Parsons, technical manager at Harris Brushes, suggests removable wallpaper as the perfect solution for renters wanting to introduce pattern without commitment.

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He advises measuring carefully, pre-cutting to size and using a paperhanging brush to smooth out bubbles for a neat, long-lasting result.

For smaller projects, Parsons recommends upcycling as a budget-friendly way to add character. "When upcycling, match your prep and tools to the furniture type."

In preparation for previously painted or gloss finishes, he suggests cleaning with a mild sugar soap, then lightly sanding with a sanding block and applying an adhesion primer.

"For bare wood, sand smooth and prime as needed," Parsons advises. "Always wipe away dust with a micro-fibre cloth between stages."

If you're painting furniture a new colour, he recommends using a high-quality, fine brush to achieve a smooth, even coverage. For applying stains or clear protective varnishes, he suggests a woodwork stain and varnish paint brush offers excellent control and a smooth, durable finish.

"Consider swapping old knobs or handles to complete the transformation," Parsons adds.

Layer your furnishings

"Dopamine décor and filling our homes with things that bring us joy is very much in," emphasises Dacosta. This can easily be accomplished, even in a rental property, she explains.

"Layering your belongings, having bookshelves crammed with favourite reads; but also quirky houseplants and ornaments, is a way to achieve the 'lived in, yet still stylish' look. Building up your soft furnishings will also create character and warmth."

She goes on to say, "Chunky throws tossed over armchairs, and loads of decorative pillows will transform your rental home in an instant, making it feel welcoming."

Little luxuries

Emma Freeman, brand and communications manager for Hansgrohe UK, emphasises that in a space not designed to your exact taste, a few little luxuries can make all the difference.

"The modern bathroom is a place of serenity, and it's essential to make the most out of the components you can change. What many people don't know is that most shower heads are compatible with any standard shower unit, thanks to universal connectivity."

This means a spa-like showering experience which delivers spray patterns suited to you, can be achieved for a fraction of the cost of replacing an entire shower unit, she explains.

"One of the other benefits, unlike with a renovated bathroom, you needn't leave your sanctuary behind when you move."

Freeman continues. "If you're moving house, you can just swap your shower head out for the original – and take the indulgent feelings of premium spray types to your new home."

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