As tenancy restrictions tighten, flexible design solutions are shaping the rental market
With September marking one of the busiest times of year for the rental sector—driven by university intakes, graduate relocations, and contract turnovers—tenant demand for adaptable, deposit-safe design solutions is on the rise. Swift Direct Blinds has noted a surge in searches for “no drill blackout blinds,” which have increased by 177% in the past month alone, reflecting a growing appetite for quick and reversible home improvements.
While landlord restrictions typically prohibit drilling, painting, or altering finishes, renters remain eager to personalise their homes. Interior experts at Swift Direct Blinds have outlined practical ways tenants can inject character into a property without breaching agreements.
Flooring That Moves With You
Rugs continue to dominate as an effective and temporary flooring solution. According to Swift Blinds Brand Manager Kate O’Brien, bold statement rugs are experiencing a revival alongside the growing popularity of maximalist design. Large sisal and brown rugs—searches for which have risen 120% and 67% respectively—are also proving popular, offering both durability and natural, earthy appeal. These pieces allow tenants to disguise tired flooring while simultaneously anchoring a room’s aesthetic.
Windows Without the Worry
Window treatments are often one of the most restricted elements of a tenancy. O’Brien highlights the rise of “no-drill” solutions as a game-changer:
“No-drill blinds and shutters are easy to install, easy to remove, and leave no lasting marks—making them one of the most practical ways to update a rental home.”
For properties already equipped with curtain poles, eyelet curtains offer a renter-friendly option to refresh a space with minimal effort.
Lighting as an Instant Mood-Setter
Lighting remains one of the most transformative, yet overlooked, aspects of rental décor. With warm bulbs softening clinical interiors and statement shades surging in popularity—searches for feather lampshades have increased by 85%—renters are finding that simple swaps of bulbs or shades can significantly shift a room’s atmosphere.
Colour and Texture Through Accessories
Small-scale interventions such as throws, cushions, and plants provide affordable ways to soften interiors. O’Brien advises tenants to consider colour theory, opting for either complementary or analogous tones to blend seamlessly with existing furniture. Wall art, meanwhile, can be safely displayed using removable strips, preserving paintwork and avoiding disputes at the end of a tenancy.
Hardware Hacks: Details That Matter
One of the simplest yet most impactful updates is the replacement of cabinet handles and door knobs. With a wide array of finishes now available—from brushed metal to artisanal ceramics—such swaps provide renters with a cost-effective route to personalisation. Crucially, the originals can be reinstalled with ease before moving out.
The Bigger Picture: Flexible Design for a Mobile Market
The rise of renter-friendly décor solutions reflects wider trends in the property market. As mobility among young professionals and students increases, tenants are seeking ways to create a sense of permanence within temporary spaces. Landlords, meanwhile, stand to benefit from supporting these trends, as well-presented properties with adaptable, stylish features can drive stronger rental demand.
