10 Tips To Make a Temporary Living Space Feel Like Home

Home Sweet Apartment: Make Temporary Living Feel Like Home

Finding your forever home can take time—and a lot of saving—so temporary living situations are more common than ever. Whether you're in between moves, away for school or settling into a place for work, temporary spaces can feel impersonal and uninviting. But with a few budget-friendly updates, you can transform any space into a cozy, functional and personalized home. Here's how to make the most of your temporary living situation.

1. Start With a Cozy Foundation

Comfort starts with the basics. Invest in quality bedding, plush pillows and soft throws to make your bed a relaxing retreat. Add area rugs to warm up cold flooring and define spaces in open layouts. For an inviting ambiance, use warm-toned light bulbs, string lights or stylish table lamps to create a soft glow.

2. Personalize With Decor and Artwork

Blank walls can make a space feel sterile, but you may not be allowed to paint depending on the terms of your rental lease. Instead, choose damage-free, landlord-friendly decor to add personality, like:

• Using removable hooks or adhesive strips to hang framed photos, posters or fabric panels.
• Creating a gallery wall with pictures of loved ones or favorite travel destinations.
• Displaying a collection of special items or simply switching out decor seasonally for a welcoming atmosphere.

3. Add Greenery for a Fresh Feel

Indoor foliage brings life and warmth to any home. Research even suggests that houseplants offer mental and physical health benefits, from reducing stress to improving overall well-being. Opt for low-maintenance indoor plants like:

• Succulents
• Snake plant
• Pothos
• Kentia palm
• String of hearts

If you love to cook, a small herb garden in the kitchen adds both function and charm. For tight spaces, consider vertical gardens or hanging planters to maximize greenery without sacrificing floor space.

4. Use Smart Storage Solutions

Maximizing storage is key in temporary spaces. Choose multifunctional furniture, such as beds with built-in drawers or storage ottomans. Stylish baskets, floating shelves and over-the-door organizers can help keep clutter under control while adding to the aesthetic.

Get into the habit of decluttering to ensure your space stays open and tidy and you'll always be ready for guests.

5. Make the Kitchen Feel Inviting

Even a rental kitchen can feel homey with small personal touches. Temporary backsplash decals or peel-and-stick wallpaper can transform bland walls without making permanent or costly changes. Display your favorite mugs, add stylish dish towels and invest in a few small appliances that make meal prep enjoyable.

Kitchens are functional spaces, so be sure to keep your pantry stocked so you can whip up your favorite comfort foods for a sense of home.

6. Upgrade the Bathroom for a Spa-Like Experience

You can transform your bathroom into a relaxing oasis with a few simple upgrades. Swap out a standard showerhead for a rainfall or high-pressure option. Use plush towels, a cozy bath mat and scented candles to enhance your relaxation.

Store makeup, skin care and other essentials in decorative baskets or trays to stay organized while adding a spa-like feel.

7. Create a Relaxing Living Space

Thoughtful furniture arrangements can enhance both comfort and functionality, even in small spaces. Layer in soft textiles—like cushions, throws and floor poufs—to add warmth and visual interest. If space allows, create a cozy reading nook with a comfy chair and good lighting, or set up an entertainment corner with your favorite books, games and streaming options.

8. Establish a Work or Creative Space

Even in a temporary home, having a dedicated space for work or hobbies can improve focus and productivity. Set up a small desk with good lighting and an ergonomic chair. Decorative organizers, pinboards or vision boards can add inspiration while keeping things tidy.

9. Utilize Scent and Sound for Comfort

Our senses can play a powerful role in making us feel settled, present and happy. Engage your sense of smell by using essential oil diffusers, scented candles or incense to establish a signature scent. Playing calming music, nature sounds or a favorite playlist can enhance relaxation through sound. If background noise is an issue, a white noise machine can help create a peaceful environment.

10. Build a Sense of Community

A true sense of home extends beyond your four walls. In fact, feeling connected to your local community can boost happiness. Get to know your neighbors, explore local events and support nearby businesses. Even in small spaces, hosting casual gatherings with easy snacks and drinks can foster connections. Engaging with your local community helps make any temporary space feel more like home.

Put Down Roots—Even If It's Temporary

Personalizing a temporary space doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming. With the right mindset and a few thoughtful touches, you can create a space that feels comfortable, functional and uniquely yours. No matter where you are, home is about how you make it feel.

The Synchrony HOME Credit Card can help you purchase things you need for your home. Use the Synchrony HOME locator to find Synchrony HOME retail partners in your area that may have special offers available to help you get the things you need for your home.*

*Subject to credit approval.