enting a home has its perks, but it often comes with what we call “landlord special.” These are spaces that are often finished with a fresh coat of white or millennial gray paint that can feel somewhat sterile. While making permanent changes to these spaces may not be an option, there are numerous ways to personalize your rental and make it feel like home. One excellent method is by incorporating sustainably sourced items that you can take with you when you move.

Here are three focus areas to consider when cozying up your space.

Walls – Your Blank Canvas

The walls are often the first area that can feel empty when you move into a new space. Initially, your attention usually goes to essentials like a bed, a couch, a table, and a desk. Decorating might not be a top priority at first, but if you have started thinking about it, good job!

If you find yourself staring at bare white walls, think of them as a blank canvas. A great place to start is at a thrift store or second-hand shop, where you can discover various treasures, including mirrors, prints, frames, and fun knick-knacks to display on shelves.

Another idea is to explore your camera roll. Do you have any photos you’ve been meaning to print? Perhaps you have some beautiful landscapes from a recent trip that would look fantastic on a gallery wall. Print those images to fit the frames you found while thrifting; if you can’t find the right size, you can always purchase new ones.

Local markets are also excellent for finding art prints or original pieces, which can add depth, color, and a personal touch to your walls while supporting local artists.

When it comes to hanging your artwork, many brands offer “nail-less” solutions, ensuring your walls stay in pristine condition when you eventually move out.

Textiles – To Bring the Cozy

Window Dressings
If your rental has blinds that have been there for years or were left behind by a previous tenant, consider adding window dressings. They can warm up your space and improve energy efficiency by reducing heat gain in the summer and heat loss in winter, especially with older windows.

Bedding
Textiles play a crucial role in the bedroom, and your choice of bedding is an easy way to express your personal style. When selecting bedding, pay attention to the fabrics—opt for ethically sourced, single-fabric, or recycled materials. This not only keeps you comfortable but also benefits the planet. The bed and bath textile market has seen a 30% increase and continues to grow, contributing to the 92 million tons of textile waste generated globally each year.

It’s important to consider where your bedding will end up once you’re finished with it. Asking questions like “Will it be biodegradable?” or “Will it end up in a landfill?” is crucial. Textile recycling programs can often be found locally, offered by municipalities or non-profits, with many even providing pickup services directly from your home.

Other Textiles
Don’t overlook old quilts and linens; they can be transformed into pillow shams or blankets. If you find something appealing, consider hanging it on a wall as a decorative piece.

Lighting – To Add Ambiance

Lighting not only creates a cozy, warm glow in your home but can also help reduce your electricity bill when you use LED and smart light bulbs. LED bulbs can last up to 15 times longer than regular incandescent bulbs and are 90% more energy efficient. Smart bulbs allow you to turn your lights off via an app if you forget to do so when leaving home. Additionally, you can change the color of the lighting in your rooms to match your mood.

Have you recently made a change to your space that you’re enjoying? Share it with us on our social media; we would love to keep the inspiration flowing!