Creating a home that feels truly yours can be a challenge when renting. With restrictions on what you can change, and making sure to leave no trace, it might seem impossible to add your personal touch. However, with a few smart and renter-friendly upgrades, you can transform your space into a personalised haven without risking your deposit.

Add layers of style and comfort

Layers are the secret weapon in any designer’s toolkit. By adding different textures and materials, you can create a space that feels both luxurious and welcoming. The best part? It’s all possible without making any permanent changes.

One of the quickest ways to upgrade your rental is by installing new blinds. Carpet Court’s extensive range of roller blinds are perfect for renters who want both style and functionality – and they bring a contemporary and sleek edge. These blinds offer exceptional light control, allowing you to filter natural light during the day while providing complete privacy at night. Plus, with options that provide UV protection, you can preserve your furnishings and flooring from sun damage. Whether you’re working from home or just want to enjoy a cosy evening, these blinds ensure your space feels tailored to your needs. From Modern, to Transitional and even Metallic – there is a range to suit all styles.

For something softer, and if you love the idea of natural light pouring into your home but still want some daytime privacy, sheer curtains are the way to go. Carpet Court’s sheer curtains offer a timeless elegance that complements any interior style. The Bali range of curtains in particular softly diffuse sunlight, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere while protecting your space from harsh UV rays. They’re an excellent choice for those who want to add a touch of softness and sophistication to their rental.

To ensure no unnecessary damage to your rental home, design leader Darren Palmer offers this tip: “One of the simplest ways to install a window treatment is to find something the same size as an existing one and replace it straight, hopefully allowing you to also line up any new screw holes with old ones if you’re lucky.”

Alternatively, adding a rug is another way to bring a new layer into a space. Designers often speak to the floor (and the ceiling) as being the fifth plane. The idea is that the floor is another expanse, in addition to the four walls, which can change the feeling of a room but can be oft forgotten. Introducing a rug can transform a space, whether with something minimalist and calming, like the Andes and Lisbon wool rugs from Carpet Court. Or you can add dimension and colour with something like the Summit Multi.

Wool rugs are naturally durable, stain-resistant and hypoallergenic, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Whether you prefer a bold pattern or a neutral tone, these rugs can anchor your furniture, define your space, and add a layer of insulation, which can be welcomed over timber and tile floors.

The final layer of softness to further enhance your space even further is, of course, cushions and throws. These small, removable elements can add pops of colour and texture, allowing you to easily refresh your look whenever the mood strikes. The beauty of these items is that they’re not only stylish but also practical, making them a must-have for any renter looking to personalise their space.

Lighting that transforms

Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in interior design, capable of completely changing the mood and functionality of a space. For renters, the key is to choose lighting that is flexible and portable, so you can take it with you when you move.

Embrace table and floor lamps. Unlike overhead fixtures, which often require installation, table lamps and floor lamps are perfect for renters because they simply plug in and can be moved wherever you need them. By strategically placing these light sources around your home, you can create different zones of light that serve both functional and decorative purposes. And because they’re portable, these lamps can easily be rearranged or even taken with you to your next home, making them a sound investment.

Bring the outdoors in

One of the simplest ways to breathe life into a rental space is by incorporating plants. Not only do they add a touch of nature, but they also improve air quality and bring a sense of calm to your home.

From small herb gardens on your kitchen windowsill to larger potted trees like lemon or olive trees on the balcony, plants can make a huge impact in your space. They add colour, texture and a sense of tranquillity that is hard to achieve with other décor items. For those with limited space, vertical planters or hanging pots are excellent options to maximise your greenery without sacrificing floor space.

For more design inspiration, and to explore the Carpet Court blog.