4 rental hacks you need to maximize your small space –– it’s all right here!
It’s not a secret that renting can be frustrating and also very limiting. My husband and I live in 650 sq ft. together –– and these days, during a pandemic that’s kept us inside all year –– that square footage can feel like unbearable. BUT these 4 rental hacks have helped us, and they’ll get you to a new level of contentment and creativity!
1. Think about everything you can’t control.
Sound sad or disappointing? It’s not! Only after you think about everything you can’t change or adjust (especially if you’re renting), will you be more aware of what you can change!
2. Design intentionally.
Rental hacks only work if you let them. Think carefully about your space. Draw up designs, make your mood boards, measure your space, and be intentional about the size furniture you bring in, and where and how you place decor. (Read my posts here about how to identify and implement your interior design style!)
Don’t just purchase pieces because you like them –– purchase them if they work in your space.
The hard work of planning is worth it!
3. Think brighter.
If you live in an especially small space, or even have limited sunlight coming into your space, do everything you can to maximize the light. This might mean replacing heavy blinds or drapes with light/thin curtains, utilizing lighting fixtures in appropriate places, or even bringing in lighter-toned furniture and elements into your home.
I have a whole blog post on how to make your home feel brighter, even without lots of windows! Click here to read.
4. Don’t confuse crowded for cozy.
Last of the rental hacks: cozy is one thing –– you can have the style you want even if it’s maximalist (like bohemian) and still keep a space functional and inviting. But filling your space with pieces that are overwhelming or don’t work wisely in your home will have the opposite effect.
This is both a reminder that you still can have dark pieces of furniture, dark colors on the wall, etc., and find ways to keep things feeling open. But if you don’t strike the right balance, you’ll end up with more clutter and overall a less peaceful space.
Maybe these weren’t the typical rental hacks you were expecting, and that’s kind of the point. I don’t want to only give you tips to use command hooks and removable wallpaper –– because I think there are smarter, more intuitive and sensible ways to make your space home without having it scream “I’M A RENTAL”.
Hope you enjoyed these rental hacks! Leave any questions or thoughts below!
xo, Rach
p.s. see how we’re living small on Instagram!
