10 Stylish Things Every Renter Should Buy First

 

Moving into your first rented space is exciting — but figuring out what to buy (and what not to waste your money on) can feel overwhelming. You want your place to feel cosy, stylish, and functional without blowing your budget. As someone who’s lived in a rented apartment and has a real passion for designing and decorating on a budget, I’ve learned what makes the biggest impact when setting up a space from scratch. These 10 pieces aren’t just “nice to haves” — they’re renter-friendly, space-enhancing, and full of personality.

1. A sofa that anchors the space

Your sofa is the centrepiece of your living area. Choose something comfortable, neutral, and timeless so it’s easy to style in any rental. Think soft greys, taupes, or off-whites — and dress it up with cushions and throws. 

Tip: I would recommend looking for sofas with removable covers. I made the mistake of buying a sofa without removable/ washable covers, so please make sure to get the removable covers (ideal for renters) or browse high-quality secondhand options for a budget-friendly buy.  

2. A dining table and chairs

Even if you’re limited on space, having a dining area is worth it — especially if you work from home or love hosting. A small round table or fold-down version works wonderfully in studio or one-bedroom flats.

Style tip: Mix materials (wood and metal, or white and oak) for a more curated look.

3. A rug to define the room

Rugs add instant warmth, texture, and structure. They’re also renter-friendly since they cover flooring you might not love.

Look for flat-woven or low-pile rugs that are washable or easy to vacuum.

4. A TV or media setup

If you enjoy cosy nights in or binge-watching your favourite shows, a TV remains an essential part of the home. Even if you don’t mount it, styling your media setup with plants, books, and candles can keep it looking intentional.

5. Cushion covers and inserts

Switching up your cushion covers is the easiest way to refresh your space with the seasons — or your mood. Choose rich textures like velvet or linen, and don’t forget the inserts! 

Tip: A quality insert (that gives a soft “chop”) can make even budget covers look luxe.

6. Canvas prints or framed art

Blank walls can make a space feel unfinished. Use Command strips to hang lightweight art or canvas prints — or try leaning frames on shelves and console tables.

Bonus: Print your own art or frame pages from old magazines or books for a personalised touch.

7. Creative vases for texture

Vases aren’t just for flowers — they add beautiful texture and shape to any room. Mix ceramics, glass, and rustic pieces for a designer-style shelf or table setup.

A few dried stems, branches, or faux florals can go a long way.

8. A decorative lamp

Lamps are both practical and aesthetic — they create cosy lighting and instantly elevate your space. Whether it’s a floor lamp with a curved arm or a sculptural table lamp, use lighting to define your style.

9. Coffee table books

They’re chic, informative, and perfect for stacking on side tables,  stacking on a TV stand under a lamp, or even in the kitchen. Choose books that reflect your personality — interiors, fashion, art, or wellness.

Don’t forget to check Amazon, charity shops for affordable finds!

10. (Bonus!) A mirror

Mirrors open up a small space and reflect light, which is ideal for flats or rental homes with limited lighting. Lean a tall/oval mirror against the wall or hang a statement mirror above a console for visual impact.

Final thoughts

The key to decorating as a renter is intention over impulse. Start with these 10 items to establish your space, and layer in pieces gradually. Your home should reflect you — even if it’s temporary.

How to Make Your House Smell Nice – Naturally & Effortlessly

                          

A beautiful home isn’t just about how it looks – it’s also about how it smells. A fresh, clean scent can uplift your mood, create a welcoming environment for guests, and make your space feel even more relaxing. Here’s a practical and natural guide to keeping your home smelling amazing every day.

1. Clean Your Fridge Weekly

Your fridge can be a hidden culprit when it comes to bad odours. Make it a habit to:

• Throw out old food every week.
• Wipe down shelves with warm water and mild soap.
• Don’t forget to clean the fridge drainage hole quarterly – mould or food buildup here can cause lingering smells.

✨ Pro tip: Place an open box of baking soda inside to absorb odours.

2. DIY Room & Linen Spray

Skip artificial air fresheners and make your own natural spray that you can use on:

• Sofas
• Bedsheets
• Carpets
• Curtains

Here’s a quick recipe:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol or witch hazel
• 15–20 drops of your favourite essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, citrus, or rose)

Shake and spray as needed. It’s safe, refreshing, and toxin-free!

3. Keep Your Garbage Bin Fresh

Your garbage bin can hold onto smells long after the trash is gone.

• Empty it daily (or as often as needed).
• Rinse the bin weekly with warm, soapy water.
• After drying, place a cotton ball soaked in essential oil (like lemon or tea tree) at the bottom before adding a fresh liner.

4. Let the Fresh Air In

One of the simplest ways to refresh your home? Open the windows!

Even 15–30 minutes a day can help:

• Eliminate stale air
• Circulate fresh outdoor scents
• Prevent mould and dampness

Morning or evening is usually best, especially when outdoor air is clean and cool.

5. Change Bedding Weekly

Your sheets absorb body oils, sweat, and skin cells – all of which can contribute to musty odours.

• Wash your bedding once a week on a hot wash setting. 
• Add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil to the rinse cycle for a calming, clean scent.

Bonus: You’ll sleep better, too!

6. Wipe Sofas with Fabric Softener + Baking Soda

Revive your fabric sofas and armchairs with this simple homemade solution:

Mix:

• 1 part liquid fabric softener
• 1 part water
• 1 tablespoon baking soda

Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with the mix and gently wipe down the sofa. It’ll clean lightly, neutralise odours, and leave a soft scent behind.

Final Tip: Be Consistent

Creating a good-smelling home is less about one-time fixes and more about building small habits. Clean regularly, use natural scents, and let fresh air work its magic. Use a great-smelling diffuser in your bathroom, bedroom and living room.

Let your home be a place that smells as beautiful as it looks.

How to Make Dubai-Style Chocolate at Home with Kunafa & Pistachio

 

                                                       

If you’re looking to elevate your homemade chocolate game, this is it. Inspired by the luxury dessert trends of Dubai, this chocolate slab is filled with layers of texture: velvety milk chocolate, crispy kunafa, rich pistachio butter, and a creamy tahini twist. It’s a Middle Eastern dessert dream come true, and the best part? It’s super easy to make.

What You’ll Need:

• 200g milk chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup kunafa (kataifi pastry), shredded
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting kunafa)
• 2 tbsp pistachio butter
• 1 tbsp tahini
• 1 tbsp chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)
• Silicone chocolate bar mould (optional but makes it look shop-bought)

🥄 

Method:

1. Toast the Kunafa:

In a non-stick pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the shredded kunafa and fry for 5–8 minutes, stirring regularly, until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool.

2. Melt the Chocolate:

                                                  

Melt the milk chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave (30-second bursts, stirring between each). Once smooth, set aside.

3. Make the Filling:

In a small bowl, mix the pistachio butter and tahini until smooth. This will be your creamy center.

4. Assemble the Slab:

• Pour a thin layer of melted chocolate into the base of your silicone mould. Let it sit slightly in the fridge for about 5 minutes to create a shell.
• Add a thin layer of the toasted kunafa.
• Spoon or pipe the pistachio-tahini mixture on top.
• Sprinkle in a few chopped pistachios (optional).
• Cover everything with the remaining melted chocolate and gently tap the mould to remove air bubbles.

5. Chill & Unmould:                                                

Place the mould in the fridge for 30–60 minutes, or until fully set. Pop it out gently—look at that clean finish!

💡 

Tips:

• Want a firmer center? Refrigerate the pistachio-tahini mix before layering.
• For extra wow, sprinkle crushed rose petals or edible gold before the final chocolate layer.

EASY PEACH CRUMBLE RECIPE

Here’s a simple and delicious Peach Crumble recipe—perfect for summer or cosy evenings. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned peaches!

                    

🍑 Ingredients

For the Peach Fillings

• 2 large peaches (peeled and sliced)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of peaches)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg 

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 ½ cup plain flour 
• ½ cup rolled oats (optional for texture)
• ½  cup brown sugar
• pinch of salt
• 1/2 (1 stick) cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small cubes)
• custard 

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the peaches: In a medium-sized pan, toss sliced peaches with sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and nutmeg. Transfer to a Pyrex glass dish. 
3. Make the crumble topping:                                                                                                        In another bowl, mix flour, oats (if using), brown sugar, butter and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Assemble: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the peaches.

                                                     

1. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the topping is golden and the peach filling is bubbling.
2. Cool & Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or custard