6 ways to redecorate your rented home - Life - Stylist Magazine

6 ways to redecorate your rented home

Revamp a rented space without losing your deposit

A recent survey says 40% of Britons now rent rather than buy. But that doesn’t mean your interiors have to be bland. The home most of us dream of – spacious rooms filled with natural light and expertly chosen designer furniture – is looking likely to stay just that for now: a dream. With 50% of UK renters feeling pessimistic about ever owning a property, the current reality is likely to be scruffy white walls, fake laminate flooring and unflattering halogen lighting.

However, you don’t have to live in a dull box. We asked interior designer and stylist Marie Nichols (marienichols.co.uk) for her tips on how to decorate your rented space without jeopardising your deposit.

1. Make flooring less boring

“Hide a tired carpet or broken floorboards with a statement rug. Members’ only sites such as Achica are great for picking up designer rugs.”

2. Rejuvenate bland walls

“Cover a sheet of MDF with wallpaper. Create one large feature wall or use three panels to make a work of art. Wallpaper Direct has a brilliant selection.”

3. Hang without holes

“I always have 3M Command Strips in my styling kit. They’re great because you can hang picture frames without creating holes or damaging walls.”

4. Brighten it up

“Good lighting is essential to making your rental property into your own. Opt for an interesting side, table or floor lamp. Occa-Home has a great selection.”

5. Hide ugly tiles

“Unattractive bathroom and kitchen tiles can be covered up with retro-style waterproof stickers called Tile Tattoos from Mibo.”

6. Make storage a statement

“Bring character to a room and save space by using free-standing shelves. Heal’s and the Conran collection at M&S has really interesting options such as the Wilkins shelves, where you’re getting designer pieces at a better price point.”

Tags: Home accessories, Interior ideas, home