Art can bring colour where paint is not allowed on the walls. It can also make a statement or give a calm atmosphere to a home, as you please. Commission an upcoming artist or illustrator. You get to be part of the process, you get something unique and your rental gets a vibrant hit.

Tip – If you use removable velcro Command strips to hang your framed prints or canvases, you wont damage the walls either so you can get back that all important deposit.

A soulless space will benefit instantly from some layers of pattern and softness to get your feeling cosy.

Curtains are a great place to add your own unique spin on your rental and are often forgotten. Here we’ve used a contemporary sheer fabric from Kvadraat with a muted colour palette and a fading pattern to add interest. Or you could try Ikea for some affordable soft furnishings.

Surprisingly, wallpaper can also be an option in a rental as there are now removable vinyls out there. This design by Custhom (a peckham based design duo) comes in vinyl and if used sparingly can really transform the bones of your room.

Rugs add warmth, texture and colour and they can roll up and come with you where ever you go. There are so many incredible options out there now, like this monochrome, hand-tufted piece by Habitat.

They not only give softness underfoot but can add colour and design to an otherwise plain home. A story on your floor that is an instant home maker.

Here’s a cheeky link to our own rug collection from Floor Story – a worthy investment piece that will move with you.

A curated display on open shelving is a the perfect way to personalise a space easily and quickly.

Display your books, magazine collections (print is not dead yet people) and favourite objects or ceramics. The odd succulent or cactus friend will also help to make an amazing personal display that you can keep changing up as the mood takes you. The more greenery the better. Let’s face it, plants instantly make any space feel better.

Maybe you don’t want to splash too much cash, maybe you don’t have outdoor space, maybe access is an issue. So why not bring outdoors in literally by using some affordable, durable and stylish outdoor furniture. This Habitat dining table we’ve used as an example is an affordable winner. Great price. Easy to move if access is an issue (it comes in three flatpack pieces). And lightweight. It’s available in spring/summer (we are nearly there!) so look out for it. Made from fibrecrete, but just as sexy looking as concrete – put this in your new pad and it will give you a permanent solid feel but you know it can be moved easily if you need. It has a Japanese minimalism look that will make your dinner parties the envy of your friends.

We aren’t talking craft beer, although that will certainly make your guests feel at home, but a unique piece of craftsmanship can add that personal touch with a story that makes you part of it’s history.

By commissioning a talented maker, you will also be giving them a boost and, whether it be a unique ceramic piece or a small side table that fits under your arm should you move, you will feel attached to that object all the more.

Less throwaway, more creative, and you would be surprised how affordable this can be if you work with upcoming talent.