The Transformation Begins
When my husband and I first moved into our rental home in Aberdeen, it felt like a blank canvas – stark white walls, generic carpet, and a distinct lack of personality. As a designer, I knew I had my work cut out for me, but I was determined to make this house feel like a true home. After all, just because it’s a rental doesn’t mean it can’t be a reflection of our family’s style and character.
Embracing the Blank Slate
I’ll admit, staring at those empty rooms was a bit daunting at first. Where do you even begin when you’re working with a clean slate? But then I remembered the wise words of Joanna Gaines: “Be creative and enjoy the hunt.” So that’s exactly what I did.
I started scouring thrift stores, flea markets, and online shops for unique pieces that spoke to me. An old church pew here, a set of mismatched dining chairs there – slowly but surely, I began to build a cohesive look that felt both cozy and eclectic. As Apartment Therapy suggests, I tried to “mix high and low, old and new” to create a space that felt authentically ours.
The Power of Personalization
One of the most important things I’ve learned is that a rental home is the perfect canvas to showcase your personal style. Sure, I can’t exactly paint the walls or install custom built-ins, but that just means I have to get a little more creative.
For example, I found the most charming set of vintage wooden letters at a local antique shop and hung them above our fireplace to spell out a fun, whimsical word. Creative Touch Boutique has some gorgeous options for this kind of personalized decor as well.
I also made sure to include lots of family photos and sentimental artwork throughout the space. These personal touches turn a generic rental into a true home that reflects our family’s unique story.
Functional and Fabulous
Of course, with two young kids running around, I had to keep functionality in mind as well. No delicate knickknacks or precious heirlooms here! Instead, I focused on durable, kid-friendly pieces that could withstand the occasional spill or rough play.
Our living room, for instance, is anchored by a plush sectional sofa with removable, washable slipcovers. Just like Joanna Gaines, I wanted to create a space that was both stylish and livable. The kids can jump, lounge, and play to their hearts’ content without me having a heart attack.
And in the kitchen, I swapped out the standard builder-grade cabinetry with a mix of open shelving and antique hutches. Not only does this give the space more character, but it also makes it easy for the kids to access their snacks and dishes. Win-win!
The Finishing Touches
Once the big pieces were in place, it was time to add those special little touches that really make a house a home. I scoured Creative Touch Boutique for unique decor items, from cozy throw pillows to natural wood candlesticks.
But my absolute favorite addition has to be the chalkboard wall in the dining area. Not only is it a practical spot for jotting down grocery lists and reminders, but it also lets the kids’ creativity shine. They’re constantly drawing new masterpieces or playing impromptu games of Pictionary. As Joanna Gaines says, “Chalkboards are great for children. We use ours for homework time and for fun time as well.”
A Rental with Personality
At the end of the day, our rental home may not be our “forever” space, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be a reflection of our family’s unique style and personality. By embracing the blank canvas, personalized with our own creative touches, we’ve transformed this house into a warm, inviting space that truly feels like home.
And who knows, maybe one day we’ll end up buying a place of our own. But until then, I’m proud to say that this rental is ours – every quirky, cozy, kid-friendly inch of it. After all, as Joanna Gaines so wisely puts it, “Your home is a reflection of your hearts and of your families, not a magazine or like someone else’s lifestyle.”
So here’s to embracing the rental life and making it work for us. One chalkboard wall and vintage find at a time.
