Bold and Beautiful: How to Add Personality to a Rental Without Losing Your Deposit
- Serena
- Mar 22
- 6 min read
Renting a home often comes with a set of rules that can make personalising your space feel like a daunting task. But fear not, fellow decor enthusiasts! With a sprinkle of creativity and a dash of DIY spirit, you can transform your rental into a haven that reflects your unique style, all without risking your deposit.
Here are 15 tips and tricks, ranging from small tweaks to more ambitious projects, that are both easy to implement and remove.
1. Embrace Removable Wallpaper
Gone are the days when wallpaper was a permanent commitment. Removable wallpapers offer a plethora of designs and can be easily applied and removed without leaving a trace. They're perfect for creating an accent wall or adding texture to a room. You can find a variety of options at local home decor stores or online retailers like B&Q or Dunelm.
2. Command Your Space with Hooks and Strips
Want to hang artwork, mirrors, or shelves without drilling holes? Command hooks and strips are your best friends. They come in various sizes and can hold a surprising amount of weight, allowing you to personalise your walls without causing damage.
3. Lay Down Stylish Rugs
Rugs are a fantastic way to add colour, pattern, and warmth to your space. They also protect existing flooring from wear and tear. Whether you prefer bold patterns or neutral tones, there's a rug out there that will suit your style. Try TK Maxx or IKEA for great selections.
4. Illuminate with Floor, Table, and Battery-Powered Wall Lamps
Overhead lighting in rentals can be harsh or unflattering. Introduce floor and table lamps to create a cosy ambiance, or go for battery-operated wall sconces.
These stylish wall-mounted lights don’t require any drilling or wiring, just stick or screw in the bracket, slide in the lamp, and you’re good to go! Perfect for bedside lighting, home offices, or reading nooks, they bring a designer feel without the hassle.
You can find them at Amazon UK, Dunelm, or B&Q, and many are rechargeable via USB.
5. Incorporate Removable Backsplashes
Kitchens and bathrooms can benefit from a splash of personality. Peel-and-stick tiles or decals can serve as temporary backsplashes, adding visual interest without permanent alterations. Check B&M, B&Q, Wickes, Amazon or Etsy for stylish peel-and-stick options.
6. Use Tension Rods for Curtains and Dividers
Tension rods are versatile tools that can be used to hang curtains or create room dividers without drilling. They're adjustable and can fit various spaces, offering both functionality and style. Check Amazon or Dunelm.
7. Add Greenery with Potted Plants
Plants breathe life into any space. Opt for potted plants that can be easily moved and don’t require any modifications to your rental. Check out Dobbies Garden Centres or Homebase for a variety of indoor plants.
8. Personalise with Removable Floor Tiles
If you're not a fan of your rental's flooring, consider using removable floor tiles. They're available in various designs and can be easily installed and removed, allowing you to customise your floors without permanent changes. Check out B&Q or Jes Rose.
9. Create a Gallery Wall with Leaning Frames
Instead of hanging frames, lean them against the wall on shelves or furniture. This method adds a casual yet chic look to your space and eliminates the need for nails or hooks. Check out Facebook Marketplace or Ikea.
10. Upgrade Cabinet Hardware
Swapping out cabinet knobs and pulls can make a significant impact in kitchens and bathrooms. Just remember to keep the original hardware to reinstall before moving out. Check out Etsy, Facebook Marketplace or Amazon.
11. Utilise Decorative Room Dividers
Room dividers can define spaces and add visual interest. Choose freestanding options that can be easily moved and don’t require installation.
12. Introduce Freestanding Shelving Units
Freestanding shelves provide additional storage and display space without the need for wall-mounted fixtures. They're perfect for showcasing books, decor, and plants.
13. Decorate with Peel-and-Stick Wall Decals
Wall decals are an excellent way to add art and patterns to your walls without permanent effects. They come in various designs and can be easily removed when it’s time to move out.
14. Add Personality with Colourful Textiles
Incorporate vibrant throw pillows, blankets, and curtains to infuse colour and texture into your space. These items are easy to switch out and can travel with you to your next home.
15. Divide and Conquer with the IKEA KALLAX
The IKEA KALLAX unit is a fantastic, renter-friendly piece that can function as both storage and a room divider. Use it to separate your living area from your workspace or dining nook. Its open design allows light to flow through while providing ample storage for books, decor, or office supplies. You can find KALLAX at IKEA Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Aberdeen.
Where to Find Materials and Tools in Scotland
If you're ready to give your rental a stylish makeover, here are some of the best places across Scotland to find affordable, renter-friendly decor, DIY supplies, and home accessories.
Where to Find Materials and Tools in Scotland
Note: These are UK-based shops with locations in Scotland, as that’s where my business is based. However, the products and tools mentioned, like peel-and-stick wallpaper, command strips, and battery-powered lights, are widely available worldwide.
If you’re outside the UK and need alternative stores, feel free to reach out, and I’d be happy to send a list of options! 😊
🚨 Just a heads-up: None of the links below are affiliate links! These are just recommendations based on where I personally love to shop for renter-friendly home decor.
🛋️ IKEA Scotland
📍 Glasgow – 99 Kings Inch Drive, Glasgow, G51 4BN📍 Edinburgh – Costkea Way, Loanhead, EH20 9BY
IKEA is a renter's dream store, offering stylish yet budget-friendly furniture, storage solutions, and decor. Some must-haves for rental makeovers include:✔ KALLAX shelving units – Ideal as room dividers and storage.✔ Peel-and-stick wall decals – Great for adding a pop of personality.✔ LED strip lights & battery-powered sconces – Easy, renter-friendly lighting.
🔨 B&Q Scotland
📍 Locations in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness, and more.
B&Q is the go-to for DIY supplies, temporary decor solutions, and home improvement tools. Whether you’re looking for removable wallpaper, peel-and-stick tiles, command strips, or LED lighting, you’ll find plenty of options here.
🔎 Look for:✔ Peel-and-stick backsplashes and floor tiles✔ Paint & removable wallpaper✔ Command hooks & strips (for damage-free hanging)✔ Storage solutions & shelving units
🏠 Homebase Scotland
📍 Stores in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Stirling, Perth, Aberdeen, and more.
Homebase stocks affordable decor, DIY supplies, and renter-friendly home improvements, including:✔ Rugs, curtains, and throws for an instant style update.✔ Battery-powered wall lights & table lamps (no wiring required!).✔ Freestanding shelving & storage solutions.
💻 Check out Homebase’s latest collections
🎨 Dunelm Scotland
📍 Locations in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Inverness, and Aberdeen.
Dunelm is a hidden gem for renters—they stock an amazing selection of textiles, removable home accessories, and budget-friendly decor. Look for:✔ Removable window films (for privacy and style).✔ Cushions, bedding & curtains for easy updates.✔ Stick-on tiles & temporary wall art.
🛒 TK Maxx & Homesense
📍 Multiple locations across Scotland
For unique, affordable home accessories, check out TK Maxx and Homesense. They have ever-changing stock, including:✔ Statement rugs & throws to refresh your space.✔ Designer-look lamps & battery sconces.✔ Stylish storage baskets & organisers.
🛍️ The Range
📍 Stores in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Dundee
A great budget-friendly store for home decor, storage, and temporary DIY solutions. Perfect for:✔ Peel-and-stick wallpaper & decals.✔ Affordable lighting & storage baskets.✔ Wall mirrors & removable hooks.
Final Thoughts
Transforming your rental into a bold and beautiful space doesn't have to mean sacrificing your deposit. With these simple, removable, and stylish tricks, you can create a home that reflects your personality while keeping your landlord happy. Whether you're making small tweaks with decor, adding functional storage, or going for a full renter-friendly makeover, there are endless ways to make your space feel like home.
Final Tip: If you're looking for something unique or second-hand, check out local charity shops, Facebook Marketplace, and vintage stores in Glasgow or Edinburgh for one-of-a-kind decor pieces!
Now you know exactly where to shop in Scotland for renter-friendly upgrades, time to get creative and make your space feel like home! 💛
I hope this helps and inspires you to bring some personality into your rental!
Let me know which tips you're excited to try.
Happy decorating!
Sere xxx 💛
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