How To Make Your Rental Feel More Like Home
You’ve just moved to Malta and you’re so excited to be in a new country. You’re finally living on a sunny island you’ve always dreamed about. But, that doesn’t mean it’s not going to be difficult at times. Moving to a different country can be tough. We all experience homesickness. Rental properties often have rules and restrictions. This means you can’t stick anything to the wall, and you can’t even have candles. Unfortunately, this also means no pets! Having a furry companion is sometimes the only thing you need to get you through the tough days. However, just because you live in a rental property doesn’t mean you can’t make it feel like home. You can still be creative. Yes, you can’t refurbish the entire place. But, don’t forget the perks that also come with a rental apartment. You seldom have to do maintenance. There are still many ways you can make your rental apartment feel like home. Here are my tips and tricks on the easiest ways to add that cosy feeling to your rental home.
Fairy lights
This is my personal favourite. Coincidently, I sit writing this blog post whilst I sit on my bed surrounded by fairy lights. There is nothing cosier. They are a perfect rendition especially during this time of year. As the days get shorter, ambient lighting is gentler on the eyes. You don’t want to be blinded by bright lights in the evening. This is especially true for expats that come from the Nordic regions. Malta has 300 days of sunshine a year so, it’s very bright out there. This is the antithesis of Northern Europe which is more accustomed to short daylight hours during Winter. The dim glow from the fairy lights can add to an element of a home. This is a great form of self-care. Grab yourself a hot drink and a book. Cover yourself up in some blankets for extra cosiness. You deserve to relax and take some time off. Additionally, it’s Christmas time soon so there is no excuse. You’re going to find plenty of fairy lights in the stores right now.
Rugs
Maltese properties don’t have carpets fitted in because it’s too hot during Summer. If you’re from the United Kingdom this can be quite odd when you first move in. Nothing is stopping you from buying a couple rugs to act as a replacement. You can always put them back away for Summer if it gets too hot. You can place one by your bed to add some comfort to your room. I also recommend one underneath your sofa to add some warmth to the living room. There are so many different types of rugs out there. You will be able to find the material and style that suits your needs. Rugs will add to your hominess because they will add a personal touch to your rental property.
Ornaments
I have quite a few ornaments scattered around my place. I like to keep it as minimalistic as possible though. Too many and the place will just look untidy. However, the trick is to put up your most treasured items! I love presenting gifts from loved ones around the place. My aunts bring me back amazing gifts from their travels. I am very lucky to have items from all corners of the world. I don’t think there is anything homier than having presents from your friends and family up in your place. This will also help when you’re feeling a little homesick. Additionally, you will have a story to tell when guests come over. Packing ornaments can be hard if you’re moving abroad. But, saving space for one or two items will be worth it.
Cushions
Again, cushions emphasise a sense of home because you can add your personal touch to them. You need to add your own sense of style where you live, otherwise, it’s never going to feel like home. Spruce up your place with a load of cushions. Add an abundance to your bed and sofa. There are so different shapes and sizes to choose from. Most importantly, choose a design that screams out your name. If you’re more of a minimalist, go for neutral colours. If you’re more extravagant, go for various colours and designs. The most important part is that you add your personality to your place. Worry about tidying all the cushions up afterwards!
Picture Frames
This is another good idea to help combat homesickness. Buy some picture frames and place them around the house. Just remember, don’t nail any to the wall! It’s so nice to put up memories from home when you’re living abroad. They can put a smile on your face after a long day at work. There’s no place like home. I also have one frame which has a motivational quote. Mine reads ‘Follow your dreams, they know the way’. A personal reminder to myself to keep going when things get tough. You can add anything you want to them. Maybe, even a postcard from a friend. If it makes you happy, it’ll make you feel more at home.
Lamps
There is something about lights that just add to a sense of hominess. They add warmth to your home. Lamps are a great substitute for candles. Once again, we’re all spoilt and have a bunch to choose from. I prefer the small ones to reciprocate the idea of a candle. Small lantern-style lamps are especially cute. You can even buy picture frames that light up now! There are so many stories in Malta that specialise in lighting. Why not go to an antique store if you’re looking for something unique?
Plants
You’re usually not allowed any pets in a rental property. Okay, plants may not be as fun but they’re sure to make your place feel homier. I think it’s so important to have a bit of nature where you live. Maltese properties don’t tend to have gardens either. If you’re lucky enough to have a balcony, this would be ideal to optimise with plants. You can make your own little getaway at home. If not, you still should utilise your space and add plants wherever you can. It's easiest to start with cacti and succulents. If I’ve always managed to keep mine alive, then you can do. There is loads of information online if you need help looking after other house plants.
As you can see, the world is your oyster when it comes to home decoration. Maltese people take pride in looking after their homes, so there are loads of options out there. You’re sure to make yourself at home in Malta soon. If you’re looking to relocate to the island, or simply just want to move to a new apartment, then get in touch with one of Letting Specialists at QuickLets. Our specialists will be happy to help!