It’s easy for rented properties to get neglected. Why would you want to spend your money, time and energy making over someone else’s home?
But it is possible to turn your dingy flat into a warm and inviting space stamped with your own style without investing in a major overhaul. We’ve got super-simple and inexpensive ideas that you can pack-up and take with you when you move.
1: Decals In a rented property you’re usually not allowed (or willing!) to paint the walls. So, to update a tired paint job, or hide to hide a mark on the wall, try using decals or wall stickers. Decals used to be just for kids’ rooms but now there’s a huge range of amazing designs to suit every interior style. Some of our favourite places to buy include: Zozo Living, Ferm Living Shop, Vinyl Wall Design, Made by White.
2: Couch cover A cover can give a new lease of life to the rattiest of couches. Readymade covers can be bought cheaply (try a plain one from The Warehouse) or DIY it by covering the couch with a throw or blanket. Old grey wool army blankets look great and you can pick them up really cheaply from surplus and second-hand stores. There’s usually no need to sew them, just tuck tightly then style-it up with your favourite cushions. Or if DIY isn’t your thing, try one of these cute vintage blankets from felt.co.nz.
3: Window dressings Tatty curtains are unacceptable. If your window dressings are drab it will immediately ruin your best efforts in the rest of the room. Instead of replacing heavy winter curtains (which can be expensive) try layering them with a pretty fabric on top. Freedom Furniture has a wide range of cheap tab-top organza curtains which can easily be temporarily attached with a few stitches. And remember, if your house has old nanna nets, remove them. You might have a little less privacy but it’s worth it.
4: Art Blank walls are boring. It’s not necessary to spend a load of money on art to dress your walls though. Try framing your favourite posters (avoid pinning them to the wall – the landlord won’t be happy and the posters will curl and look tatty quickly). Or think outside the square. Old bus blinds (the signs that used to be in the front windows of buses displaying place names) make a great graphic artwork. Bus blinds are becoming quite covetable now, you can expect to pay around $300 on Trade Me, but there are still deals to be found in second-hand stores. Bus Blinds are great for flatters because when you move they can easily be rolled up and transported.
5: Flooring If your carpet is marked or worn, cover it up with a rug. For a light, sunny room try an inexpensive bamboo mat. These are available in really large sizes that can cover the entire floor, look out for them at your local market. Or if you need some warmth, check out the range of wool rugs at Spotlight or The Warehouse. Both places often have good sales on these rugs. Choose a plain style in a neutral colour so that it will still suit your interiors when you move house.
