10 Easy Tricks for Decorating a Rental on a Budget 

Why you should decorate your rental

Decorating your rental isn't just about making it look nice—it's about turning a temporary space into your own cosy retreat that feels like home. By adding your personal style, you make it more comfortable and reflect who you are. It's not just about how things look; it's about making your space work better for you too. 

Whether it's adding soft blankets, picking out useful furniture, or hanging up your favourite pictures, each little change helps make your rental feel like it belongs to you. Plus, decorating can make you feel happier and more at ease in your home. So, whether you're staying for a little while or for the long haul, taking the time to decorate is totally worth it for a happier living space.

Things to keep in mind when decorating your rental

When decorating your rental, remember to check your lease for any rules about what you can change. Stick to temporary decor that won't cause damage, and think about whether your decorations can come with you when you move. 

Also, consider safety and practicality, especially if you have kids or pets. 

Keep walkways clear and choose sturdy items. By following these tips, you can decorate your rental without any hassle and create a space that feels just right for you.

10 easy ways to decorate your rental on a budget

In this guide, we'll explore 10 simple and budget-friendly ways to spruce up your rental space. From statement rugs to functional furniture and creative DIY artwork, these easy decorating tricks will help you personalise your home without breaking the bank.

1. Statement rugs

Statement rugs are a fantastic way to add personality and warmth to your rental space without making permanent changes. These rugs not only define different areas in your home but also inject vibrant colours and patterns that reflect your style. 

Whether you want to cover up worn flooring or add a pop of colour to a neutral room, statement rugs are versatile and easy to switch out when you move. Plus, they provide a cosy surface underfoot, making your space feel more inviting and comfortable. With a wide range of sizes, shapes, and designs available, you can easily find a statement rug that suits your taste and fits your budget, making it an ideal choice for renters looking to enhance their home decor.

2. Functional furniture 

Functional furniture is a key element in decorating a rental space, offering both style and practicality without the need for permanent modifications. These pieces serve dual purposes, maximising the utility of your living area while complementing your decor scheme. 

From storage ottomans to nesting tables, functional furniture optimises space by providing additional storage options and versatile configurations. These pieces are perfect for renters seeking to organise clutter and make the most of limited square footage without sacrificing style. By investing in functional furniture, you can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your rental space, creating a comfortable and efficient living environment tailored to your needs.

3. Wall art

Wall art is a fantastic way to personalise your rental space and add character without making permanent changes. Whether it's removable decals, framed prints, or canvas paintings, wall art instantly transforms bland walls into focal points that reflect your personality and style. The best part? Most wall art can be easily hung using removable adhesive hooks or picture hanging strips, making it landlord-friendly and hassle-free. From creating a gallery wall with your favourite photographs to adding a bold statement piece, the options are endless. With wall art, you can inject colour, texture, and visual interest into your rental, turning it into a place that truly feels like home.

4. Textile accents 

Textile accents are a simple yet effective way to infuse style, warmth, and comfort into your rental space. Whether it's adding throw pillows, cosy blankets, or decorative curtains, textiles allow you to easily enhance the look and feel of your home without permanent alterations. Choose fabrics in coordinating colours and patterns to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Textile accents not only add visual interest but also provide tactile comfort, making your space feel cosy and inviting. Plus, they're easy to switch out seasonally or whenever you feel like refreshing your decor, allowing you to easily adapt your rental to your changing tastes and preferences.

5. Mirrors

Mirrors are an excellent addition to any rental space, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. Strategically placing mirrors can amplify natural light, making rooms feel brighter and more spacious. This optical illusion can be especially beneficial in smaller or darker areas, helping to create the illusion of more room and openness. Additionally, mirrors serve as stylish decor elements, adding visual interest to walls and enhancing the overall aesthetic of your home. Whether you choose a statement mirror as a focal point or opt for multiple smaller mirrors to create depth and dimension, incorporating mirrors into your rental decor is an easy and effective way to elevate your space.

6. Plants

Plants are a wonderful way to breathe life into your rental space, bringing nature indoors and adding a touch of freshness and vitality. Whether you have a green thumb or prefer low-maintenance options, there are plenty of houseplants and faux greenery options to suit every skill level and preference. Not only do plants add visual interest and texture to your home decor, but they also help purify the air and create a more relaxing atmosphere. From small succulents and air plants to larger potted trees and trailing vines, incorporating plants into your rental decor can instantly enhance the ambiance and make your space feel more welcoming and vibrant.  

7. DIY artwork

DIY artwork is a creative and budget-friendly way to personalise your rental space and showcase your unique style. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, there are countless DIY projects you can try, from painting canvases to crafting wall hangings using inexpensive materials. Not only does DIY artwork add a personal touch to your home decor, but it also allows you to create pieces that are perfectly tailored to your taste and colour scheme. Plus, making your own artwork can be a fun and therapeutic activity, allowing you to unleash your creativity and express yourself in new ways.

8. Lighting

Upgrading your lighting is a simple yet effective way to enhance the ambiance and functionality of your rental space. Whether you're dealing with outdated fixtures or simply looking to add more warmth and brightness, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from. Consider adding table lamps, floor lamps, or string lights to brighten dark corners and create cosy reading nooks. Additionally, swapping out old bulbs for LED or smart bulbs can help save energy and create customizable lighting effects to suit your mood and activities.

9. Functional decor

Functional decor serves a dual purpose in your rental space, combining style with practicality to enhance both aesthetics and organisation. From decorative storage baskets and wall shelves to multifunctional furniture pieces, functional decor adds visual interest while maximising space and minimising clutter. These items not only contribute to the overall design scheme of your home but also serve essential roles in keeping your space tidy and efficient. 

10. Candles

Candles are a great way to make your rental cosy and smell nice. They create a warm atmosphere and come in different scents. Just light them up, and they instantly make your space feel more inviting. Plus, you can easily move them around or switch them out whenever you want. With candles, you can add a special touch to your home without spending a lot.

Find what you need to make your rental feel like home at Briscoes

Decorating your rental on a budget is totally doable and worth it. These 11 easy tricks, from rugs to candles, can turn your place into a cosy home that's uniquely you. Just remember to stick to temporary decor that won't cause damage. Ready to get started? Check out our range for affordable options to make your rental feel like home.