10 Renter-Safe Ways to Add Personality to Your Kitchen and Bathroom

April 9, 2025

Add Personality to Your Space with These Renter-Safe Kitchen and Bathroom Tips

Let’s be real for a second: living in a rental can feel a bit like living in someone else’s shoes. They fit, they’re functional, but you wouldn’t wear them out of sheer pride. That beige-on-beige kitchen? The lifeless bathroom tiles? Yep, I’ve been there too. But good news—there are fun, creative ways to give both spaces a glow-up without risking your bond (or your sanity).

Whether you’re a young parent juggling dinner prep and potty-training or a DIY whiz who’s itching to tweak every inch of your space, you’ll love these renter-friendly tweaks. These won’t leave marks—just smiles!

1. Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Magic

Oh, the joy of not needing grout or power tools! Peel-and-stick tiles give the illusion of a full reno with none of the fuss. From subway tile looks to Mediterranean patterns, they can bring a much-needed pop to boring kitchen walls or lifeless bathroom splash zones.

2. Funky Handles and Knobs

This one’s often overlooked, but changing the cabinet handles is a total game-changer. Unscrew the existing ones, pop your replacements on (keep the originals in a safe spot!), and marvel at how that small metal circle gave your space so much more sass.

3. Lighting That Loves You Back

The lighting in most rentals is...safe. Which is a nice way of saying it can make your space feel a bit sterile. Clip-on lamps, battery-powered LED strip lights, and plug-in pendant lights can lift a space from clinical to charming without touching the hardwired fixtures.

4. Removable Wall Hooks and Floating Shelves

Bathroom storage is always a pain, especially when you can’t drill into walls. But adhesive wall hooks? They’re your best mate. Use them for hanging bathrobes, baskets or even lightweight shelving. Done right, it looks purpose-built—and no one's the wiser.

5. Add Indoor Plants (and Cute Containers)

Let’s bring in some green—not just for aesthetics, but for mood-lifting mojo. Herbs in the kitchen or ferns in the bathroom give the space life. Go a step further and match your pots to your colour scheme to really lean into your style story.

6. Personalise with Prints and Artwork

Framed prints, cheeky quotes, or calming nature scenes—whatever speaks to you, hang it. Use Command strips or lean framed pieces against the wall on benches or open shelves. Instant personality, zero stress.

7. Decals—Not Just for Kids

Removable wall decals have grown up, and thank goodness for that. Find everything from minimalist geometry to vintage florals. They’re perfect for kitchen nooks or behind the bathroom mirror. And yes, they peel off like a dream.

8. Cosy Up With Smart Textiles

Think cushions for seated benches, bold tea towels, statement bathmats, or a waffle-knit shower curtain. It’s wild how much pattern and texture can do for a space when you're not allowed to touch a single wall.

9. Portable Storage with Style

Baskets, trolleys, and freestanding shelving give you utility and spice. In the bathroom, use a narrow utility cart to stock towels and soaps. In the kitchen, a rolling island or tiered trolley doubles as prep space and a design moment.

10. Scent—The Final Touch

Okay, this one’s for the senses. A beautifully-scented space can make your home feel truly yours. Think natural soy candles, reed diffusers or an oil burner in a fun ceramic piece. Bonus points if it looks gorgeous too!

“Your home should tell the story of who you are—and be a collection of what you love.” — Nate Berkus

Renting doesn’t have to mean boring. With a few clever swaps, a little creativity, and maybe a trip to your favourite hardware store (wink wink), you can turn a cookie-cutter rental into a space that truly feels like you. And if you ever need a hand with tools, materials, or just a dash of friendly advice, swing by Strathalbyn H Hardware. We get it—because we live it too.

Happy decorating!

Cheers,
Candeece