Renting doesn’t mean you have to settle for bland beige walls and furniture that’s more function than flair. With a little creativity (and the right renter-friendly essentials), you can totally transform your space — without risking your deposit. Whether you’re a long-term renter, a serial house-hopper, or a homeowner who just prefers non-committal comfort, these five essentials will help you create a space that feels like you.

Let’s dive into our top picks for creating a cosy, stylish, and personal home with no power tools required.

1. Peel & Stick Perfection

Removable Wallpaper and Tiles

When we say life-changing, we mean it. Peel and stick wall coverings are the ultimate renter’s secret weapon. Whether it’s a splash-back in your kitchen, a quick refresh in the bathroom, or a bold accent wall in your bedroom, peel-and-stick tiles and wallpapers are:

• Easy to apply
• Damage-free to remove
• Available in endless patterns, textures and colours

Top tip: Use peel-and-stick wallpaper to frame your reading nook or create a faux headboard. No nails, no mess, no stress.

2. Plants That Love You Back

Easy Indoor Plants for Style and Air Quality

Nothing warms up a space like a little greenery. And the best part? Many indoor plants actually help purify the air, making your space feel fresher and more inviting.

Try:

• Snake plants or ZZ plants (nearly indestructible)
• Peace lilies or pothos for low-light corners
• Cute succulent bowls on shelves or side tables

Plant bonus: They don’t just look good — they’re natural mood-boosters, too.

3.  Perfectly Portable Bean Bags

Icon’s Lightweight Seating Heroes

Let’s talk furniture that moves with you — not against you. Our range of Icon bean bags are made for modern life, especially if you're renting and frequently on the move.

Why they’re renter-approved:

• Lightweight and easy to carry — no more wrestling a sofa upstairs
• No tools required — just place, squish and sit
• Available in velvet, corduroy, faux fur, and water-resistant options
• Stylish enough to be centre stage, soft enough to sink into

Whether it’s the Icon Natalia Velvet Armchair, the Kingston Classic Bean Bag, or the Kota two-seater sofa, there’s a style for every space. And yes, you can take it with you if you move again.

Bonus: All our bean bags come with FREE next working day delivery across the UK.

Browse the full Icon bean bag collection here.

4. Picture Hanging Strips

Damage-Free Ways to Add Personality

Rental rules often say no nails, but that doesn’t mean your walls need to stay empty. Adhesive picture hanging strips (like Command Strips) are a game-changer.

Use them to:

• Hang your favourite art prints or posters
• Create a photo gallery wall
• Add hooks for coats, hats or keys
• Even mount lightweight mirrors or organisers

No hammer? No problem. You can still make your mark — literally.

5. Stylish Storage Solutions

Hidden (and Visible) Organisation Hacks

Clutter is the enemy of calm. But you don’t need built-in wardrobes or permanent shelving to stay organised. Try:

• Under-bed storage boxes for out-of-season clothes
• Woven baskets for throws, toys or tech
• Metal garment rails for a boutique-style wardrobe
• Floating shelves or ladder racks you can take with you

Bonus points if your storage also looks good on Instagram.

Make It Yours Without Making It Permanent

With a little know-how and the right products, turning a rented flat into a place that feels like home is easier than you think. From bean bags you can carry under one arm, to removable wallpaper that peels off like magic, these renter-friendly essentials let you add comfort, style, and personality — no tools or tradespeople needed.

So whether you're in a studio, a shared house, or a two-bed flat, Icon’s cosy, portable bean bags are the ultimate comfort-first upgrade that makes every rented space feel just right.

Shop the full Icon collection now and create a space that moves, flexes and grows with you.

For inspiration from real renters and homeowners, follow us @IconHomeHQ on Instagram, TikTok or Pinterest.

Renting never looked (or felt) this good.