Interior Design for Rental Properties: How to Make a House Feel Like Home

Renting a property doesn’t mean you have to live with a space that doesn’t reflect your personality. While permanent changes like repainting walls or changing fixtures may be off-limits, there are plenty of ways to transform your home without jeopardising your deposit.

At The Barn Interior Design, we’ve helped many clients in Warwickshire and around the rest of the UK create beautifully designed rental spaces that feel warm, stylish, and uniquely theirs. Whether you're looking for layout solutions, curated furnishings, or a cohesive styling plan, our team can guide you in making the most of your home—without making permanent modifications.

Here’s how you can elevate your rental property with a mix of DIY solutions and expert interior design advice.

1. Work with What You Have: Furniture & Layout

Rental properties often come with fixed layouts, making furniture placement crucial in creating a functional and stylish space. To make the most of your home, consider:

• Multi-functional furniture – Ottomans with storage, extendable dining tables, and modular sofas help maximise space.

• Rugs to define areas – They add warmth and create distinct zones in open-plan layouts.

• Freestanding storage – Ladder shelves, bookcases, and storage cubes provide organisation without the need for drilling into walls.

Getting the layout right can be tricky, especially in smaller spaces or oddly shaped rooms. At The Barn Interior Design, we help clients optimise furniture arrangements to improve flow, make the best use of natural light, and ensure a balanced, inviting feel.

2. Elevate Walls Without Permanent Changes

Most landlords won’t allow tenants to paint, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with plain or outdated walls. Instead, try:

• Large statement artwork and mirrors – Leaning framed prints against the wall or using removable hooks adds personality without damage.

• Fabric panels or wall tapestries – A creative alternative to framed art, adding texture and warmth.

Choosing the right wall décor can make a huge difference in transforming a rental into a stylish home. If you’re unsure how to create a cohesive look, our Warwickshire interior designers can curate the perfect balance of colours, patterns, and textures to elevate your space without making permanent changes.

3. Improve Lighting for a Cosy Ambience

Lighting can dramatically change the mood of a space, yet many rental properties come with harsh ceiling lights or outdated fixtures. Enhance your home’s atmosphere by:

• Layering lighting – Use a combination of floor lamps, table lamps, and battery-powered wall sconces for depth.

• Upgrading lampshades – Swapping out standard shades for statement designs can add an instant style boost.

• Using smart bulbs – Adjustable brightness and colour settings allow you to customise the ambiance.

Lighting plays a huge role in making a space feel warm and inviting. At The Barn Interior Design, we help clients select lighting solutions that work with their existing setup, whether it's styling floor lamps for a cosy reading nook or advising on the best way to use accent lighting.

4. Use Soft Furnishings to Add Depth and Comfort

Soft furnishings are one of the easiest ways to bring warmth, texture, and personality into a rental. To achieve a high-end look without permanent changes, focus on:

• Luxurious curtains and sheer drapes – A simple swap can make a space feel more polished and sophisticated.

• Layering cushions and throws – Mixing textures like linen, velvet, and wool creates a rich, styled look.

• Investing in high-quality bedding – A beautifully dressed bed can completely transform a bedroom.

These simple upgrades can make any space feel more inviting, but choosing the right fabrics and colour palette can be overwhelming. At The Barn Interior Design, we help clients create harmonious interiors by selecting soft furnishings that complement their existing décor while adding depth and personality.

5. Bring Life to Your Rental with Greenery

Plants are a great way to make a rental feel fresh and lively. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you can still incorporate greenery with:

• Hanging planters – Ideal for small spaces where floor space is limited.

• Low-maintenance houseplants – Options like snake plants, peace lilies, and pothos require minimal care but make a big impact.

• High-quality artificial plants – A realistic alternative if natural light is limited.

Adding greenery can instantly lift the atmosphere of a room, but it’s important to choose the right plants and display them effectively. Our team at The Barn Interior Design can help integrate plants into your décor in a way that feels natural and enhances the overall aesthetic of your home.

6. Personalise Your Space with Thoughtful Styling

The finishing touches are what make a space feel truly like home. Even in a rental, you can add personality with:

• Decorative trays and vases – Small, curated accessories help create a polished look.

• Scented candles and diffusers – A signature scent makes a space feel uniquely yours.

• Coffee table books and styled shelves – These add depth and interest to your décor.

Styling a rental requires a thoughtful approach to avoid clutter while still achieving a lived-in, curated feel. At The Barn Interior Design, we help clients create beautifully styled spaces by selecting the right decorative elements that enhance their home without feeling overwhelming.

Final Thoughts

Just because you rent doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautifully designed home. With smart furniture choices, thoughtful styling, and expert guidance, you can create a space that feels both stylish and personal—without making permanent changes.

If you’re looking for professional design expertise, The Barn Interior Design can help you achieve a stunning rental-friendly interior. Contact us today via our contact page to start transforming your home.