How to Make Your Rental Feel Like Home
Just because you’re renting doesn’t mean you can’t create a warm, inviting, and personalized living space. Your home should reflect your personality and be a place where you feel comfortable and happy. At Grant & Main, we understand that renters want to make their spaces feel like home without violating lease agreements. The good news? There are plenty of ways to decorate and customize your rental without making permanent changes.
Here are some easy and renter-friendly ways to transform your space while keeping it lease-friendly.
Use Temporary Décor to Personalize Your Space
One of the biggest concerns for renters is how to decorate without causing damage. Luckily, there are plenty of temporary décor options that allow you to add personality to your space while ensuring you get your security deposit back.
- Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper – Available in countless colors and patterns, peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great way to add an accent wall or refresh an outdated room. The best part? It’s removable!
- Rugs & Floor Mats – If your rental has carpet you don’t love or hardwood floors that need some warmth, a stylish area rug can instantly upgrade your space.
- Removable Wall Hooks & Shelving – Use Command hooks and adhesive strips to hang artwork, photos, and lightweight shelves without drilling holes.
With these simple touches, your rental will feel like home without requiring major changes.
Bring Life into Your Space with Greenery
Plants not only add color and vibrancy to your space, but they also improve air quality and create a cozy atmosphere.
- Easy-to-Care-For Plants – If you’re new to plant care, start with low-maintenance options like snake plants, pothos, or succulents.
- Hang Plants Without Damage – Use adhesive ceiling hooks or stylish plant stands to incorporate greenery into your space.
- Create a Mini Indoor Garden – If your rental has a balcony or a bright windowsill, consider a small herb garden with basil, mint, or rosemary for a practical and decorative touch.
Adding plants is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make your rental feel warm and welcoming.
Upgrade Lighting for a Cozy Atmosphere
Lighting plays a huge role in making a space feel inviting, and the good news is that there are plenty of ways to enhance it without making permanent changes.
- Use Stylish Lamps – Floor lamps and table lamps provide soft, warm lighting and can instantly make your space feel more comfortable.
- LED Light Strips – These are perfect for under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen, behind a TV, or along bookshelves to create a warm ambiance.
- Swap Out Bulbs – If your rental has harsh fluorescent lighting, switch to soft white or warm LED bulbs to create a cozier environment.
With the right lighting, even the simplest rental can feel like a luxury home.
Add Personal Touches with Art and Accessories
Your home should reflect your personality, and small accessories can make a big difference in making a space feel like yours.
- Framed Photos & Artwork – Use lightweight frames with removable adhesive strips to display family photos, artwork, or even motivational quotes.
- Throw Pillows & Blankets – Bright or textured pillows and cozy blankets can add warmth and personality to any room.
- Mirrors to Enhance Space – A well-placed mirror can make a small rental feel larger and brighter by reflecting natural light.
These small changes can make a huge difference in how comfortable and inviting your rental feels.
Maximize Storage & Organization
A well-organized home feels more peaceful and functional. Even if your rental doesn’t have built-in storage, you can use renter-friendly solutions to keep things tidy.
- Over-the-Door Organizers – Great for shoes, cleaning supplies, or pantry items in small kitchens.
- Storage Ottomans & Benches – These provide extra seating while doubling as hidden storage.
- Bookshelves & Cube Storage – Affordable and stylish, these help organize everything from books to decorative items.
By keeping your space organized, you’ll create a home that feels open, functional, and clutter-free.
Make Your Outdoor Space Cozy (If You Have One!)
If your rental includes a balcony, patio, or even a small backyard, take advantage of the extra space!
- Outdoor Rugs & Furniture – A simple outdoor rug and a few chairs can transform your balcony into a relaxing retreat.
- String Lights – Battery-powered or solar string lights add a warm glow and make outdoor spaces feel magical.
- Potted Plants & Small Gardens – Even a small outdoor space can benefit from greenery or a container garden.
With just a few small touches, you can turn even the smallest outdoor space into a private oasis.
Feel at Home with Grant & Main’s Detroit Property Management
At Grant & Main, we believe that every rental should feel like home. Whether you’re decorating for the first time or looking for a new place that fits your style, we’re here to help.
Looking for a comfortable, well-maintained rental in Detroit? Contact Grant & Main today to find your perfect home!
