From iffy to spiffy: Maximizing space and style in furnished rentals

Affordable ways to make a short-term rental feel like home.

Living in a furnished short-term rental can feel like stepping into someone else’s world, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. With a little creativity and some personal touches, you can transform any space into a cozy, welcoming home that reflects your personal style. Use these tips to help you maximize both space and style in your furnished rental to take it from iffy to spiffy.

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Get creative with storage

One of the biggest challenges in a furnished rental is dealing with limited storage. Instead of seeing this as a problem, think of it as an opportunity to get creative. Furniture that doubles as storage is a great way to save space. 

In a furnished rental, you can add additional furniture such as ottomans that open up to store blankets or linens, coffee tables with hidden compartments or even bed frames with built-in drawers. These smart additions help you stay organized and maximize your space, making it easier to keep everything tidy and accessible.

Save on space with furniture that doubles as storage.

Closet space can also be a bit tight in furnished rentals, but that’s nothing a few clever organizers can’t fix. Invest in hanging shelves, shoe racks or storage bins that fit neatly into the closet. These solutions help you maximize every inch of available space, making room for all your belongings without cluttering the floor. 

And don’t overlook smaller storage bins. They’re perfect for keeping things organized on bookshelves or nightstands, and they come in all sorts of stylish designs that can add a decorative touch to your space.

Rearrange the furniture

Just because the furniture is already arranged when you move in doesn’t mean you have to keep it that way. Rearranging the furniture is one of the easiest ways to make a space feel more like yours. Start by experimenting with different layouts until you find one that suits your lifestyle. Maybe the couch would work better facing the window, or perhaps the dining table could create a more intimate setting in a different spot.

When rearranging, try to highlight the rental’s best features. If there’s a cool fireplace, make it the focal point of your living area. Or if the place has an amazing view, arrange your furniture to highlight it.

Another way to personalize your space is to define different areas for different activities. Create a cozy reading nook, set up a workspace or carve out a dining area. This will help your furnished rental feel more organized and functional, making it easier to settle in.

Use artwork to make your place feel finished.

Add style by accessorizing

The quickest way to make a space feel like home is by infusing it with your personal style, and accessories are the perfect way to do that. Start with the basics. Throw pillows, blankets and rugs can instantly add color and texture to any room. Choose patterns, fabrics and colors that reflect your personality and aesthetic, helping to create a positive and inviting atmosphere that feels uniquely yours.

Don’t overlook the walls. Artwork and photos can instantly make a space feel warmer and more inviting. These personal touches can have a significant impact on the overall feel of your rental. It’s not just about decor; functional items like towels, shower curtains and kitchen accessories can also reflect your personality. Choose colors and designs that bring you joy, and soon your rental will start to feel much more like your own space.

Create warmth with plants

There’s something about having plants in a room that just makes everything feel more alive. Even in a temporary space, adding a few plants can create a sense of permanence and warmth. If you don’t know a lot about plants, don’t worry — there are plenty of options like succulents, snake plants or pothos that are hard to kill and require minimal care.

Fresh or faux, greenery breathes life into a room.

To make your plants last, set reminders on your phone for watering. And why not make your plants a part of the decor? Stylish pots can be as much a part of your design scheme as the plants themselves. 

If you’re short on space, consider using hanging planters or wall-mounted shelves to display your greenery. These options are great for adding life to your rental without taking up valuable floor space.

Customize walls with temporary decoration

Walls in a furnished rental can often feel a bit impersonal, but with the right approach, they can become a canvas for your creativity. Removable self-adhesive wallpaper is a fantastic option for adding some flair without committing to anything permanent. You can create a stylish accent wall that suits your taste. And when it’s time to move out, you can easily peel it off without leaving a trace.

Blank walls are boring. Add personality with peel-and-stick paper.

Wall decals are another fun way to add personality to your space and are easy to apply and remove. If you’re a fan of art, consider creating a gallery wall. Mix and match different pieces to make a statement, and don’t be afraid to swap things out as your mood changes.

Customize lighting

Lighting is key to setting the mood in any space, and it’s something you can easily change in a furnished rental. Start by adding a few stylish lamps that complement the decor and provide the type of lighting you need. A reading lamp by your favorite chair, a floor lamp in the living room, or even a bedside lamp with a dimmer can all make a big difference.

For something a bit more atmospheric, string lights are a simple way to add warmth and charm. They’re perfect for creating a cozy vibe, especially in the evening. And don’t forget practical lighting. If you’re working from home or studying, make sure your workspace is well lit to avoid eye strain.

A decorative lamp brings character to your rental home.

Make it smell good

Let's not overlook one of the most subtle yet powerful ways to make a space feel like home: scent. A pleasant aroma can make your rental instantly more inviting. Consider how you want your space to smell, and use scented candles to add both fragrance and ambiance. Choose scents that help you relax and feel comfortable, and light them up whenever you want to create a soothing, pleasant atmosphere.

If you prefer a longer lasting source of fragrance, an essential oil diffuser is a great choice. You can mix and match different oils to create a custom scent that’s all your own. Plus, diffusers often double as a stylish decor piece, adding both form and function to your space.

Go from ‘bored’ to ‘room and board’

Turning a furnished short-term rental into a cozy, personalized space doesn’t require a major overhaul — just a bit of creativity and a few personal touches. Now that you know how to maximize your space and infuse it with your unique style, go ahead and dive in! Make your rental feel less like a temporary stop and more like a true home.

Browse furnished rentals on KSL Homes