Renter-Friendly Ways To Make Your Space Your Own
When it comes to renting, it can often feel daunting to know where to start when styling your home. As you scroll through Pinterest and admire the beautiful installations it is easy to feel like you can’t do much in your temporary dwelling but I’m here to tell you there are now more options than ever to help create your dream space. Before diving in, it’s important to note that getting clear guidelines and expectations from your landlord before you embark on a rental improvement adventure is a MUST. Though security deposits are not a requirement in Ontario you still want to do your best to use camping rules with rentals and leave them better than you found them, not only to pass kindness to the next tenant but to ensure your landlord is a good reference for you in your next apartment hunt. Communication is key!
A Coat Of Paint:
I start with this one as it is likely the most significant effort (and the most obvious) but if you find your skin crawling while staring at your current paint job, it may be time to give it a refresh. Keep in mind that your taste may not be the taste of your landlord (if they allow painting at all) but if they do, perhaps pick a few neutral tones (neutral is usually better in general, especially in basements) that you can live with and ask them which one they like the most. By collaborating with them they feel like a part of the project and may make things easier for other asks later on.
Stick-On Tile:
This was a new discover for me this year, but yes you read that right, stick-on tile exists! Functioning exactly like a giant sticker, you use these to cover up any less-than-ideal tile that is an eyesore. I’m favourable to white subway tile with white grouting but there are a lot of options out there, so find the one that goes best with your countertop and appliances.
Using Push-Pins Instead Of Nails For Your Art:
Now of course certain things are simply too heavy for this option, but you would be surprised how strong these things are! I use pushpins for a large amount of the art on my walls, including frames. What’s so great about this is when we do decide to move, patching holes will be significantly easier, and if you went with white paint, the spackle will instantly blend into the wall so you don’t need to put paint on top! Of course, make sure that you do a weight test before trusting these little gems to hold up your art. In my opinion, they can hold up to a small to medium-sized Riba frame from Ikea or a small canvas, anything bigger and your into nails and screws. On the flip side, do yourself a favour and don’t use plugs in your walls unless you have to, they rip out large pieces of drywall when removed and will be a headache not only for you but any future tenants.
Details, Details, Details:
If your rental has come furnished with someone else’s furniture (and therefore taste), focus on the details. Whether it’s a new throw blanket and cushions for the couch, a new set of glassware to add some sparkle to your kitchen shelves or extra lighting to change the mood, adding small touches to make the environment feel more personal will do wonders in making the space feel like yours.
Add Some Green:
Something that has never failed to make a space feel like a home is the addition of greenery. Whether it be a small succulent or a wild-looking monstera, adding some plant life is an easy way to show that life is present in your space making it feel more like home. Looking for more plants in your life? Check out our post on CHIVE, one of our favourite plant stores in Toronto!
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