Moving into a student house or flat is an exciting step, but it can also feel a bit unfamiliar at first. Plain walls, basic furniture and unfamiliar surroundings don’t always scream ‘cosy’. The good news is, there are simple ways to personalise your space and settle in quickly – without breaking any tenancy rules.
Whether you’re in a house share near the University of Derby or a studio flat in the city centre, small changes can make a big difference. At Arboretum Lettings, we offer a wide range of affordable student lets in Derby and the surrounding area, so let us tell you some of the ways you can make your space truly feel like a home away from home.
What Can’t I Do In My Student Let?
Before making changes to your student accommodation, it’s important to know what’s off limits. Most landlords will expect you to keep the property in good condition and return it in the same state it was in at the start of your tenancy.
Here are a few things you usually can’t do:
- Paint the walls or ceilings without written permission.
- Use nails, screws, or pins that leave marks or damage walls.
- Make permanent changes to furniture, flooring or fixtures.
- Install your own appliances that require electrical or plumbing work.
- Bring in large furniture if the property is already fully furnished.
- Ignore safety rules, such as covering smoke detectors or using candles.
You should always check your tenancy agreement or ask your letting agent if you’re unsure. Following the rules avoids deposit deductions later on and keeps things simple. That said, you can still do many things to make your space feel more comfortable.
Improve Lighting
One of the quickest ways to make your room feel more inviting is by improving the lighting. Most student homes come with a single overhead bulb, which can feel cold or clinical. Adding your own lighting options helps you create a warmer, more relaxed atmosphere.
A desk lamp or bedside light is a great start for softer, focused lighting. Choose warm‑white bulbs – they’re easier on your eyes and feel much cosier than cool‑white ones. Fairy lights are another popular choice. Whether you drape them around a bedframe, shelf or curtain rail, they add a gentle glow and make the room feel more homely. Battery‑powered fairy lights or clip-on lamps are ideal if you don’t have many plug sockets.
Let natural light in wherever possible. Keep curtains open during the day and avoid blocking windows with large furniture. A bright, well‑lit room always feels more welcoming.
Add Greenery
Plants can make any room feel more alive. Whether it’s a low‑maintenance succulent or a small pot of herbs in the kitchen, greenery adds colour and helps improve air quality. You don’t need to be a gardening expert – many houseplants are tough enough to survive the student lifestyle.
Try plants like spider plants, peace lilies, or snake plants. They need minimal watering and don’t mind the odd bit of neglect. You can also pick up fake plants if you want the look without the upkeep.
Group small pots on a windowsill or shelf to bring nature indoors. This simple touch instantly softens your space and helps you feel more settled.
Bedding and Decor
Your bed is one of the most personal spaces you’ll have in a student let, so it makes sense to start there. A few simple upgrades to your bedding and decor can make the room feel warmer, tidier, and more like yours.
Here are a few ways to refresh your space:
- Choose cosy bedding: Go for a duvet and pillows that suit your comfort level – soft, firm or something in between.
- Pick a duvet cover you like: It’s a quick way to add personality and colour.
- Add a throw or blanket: Perfect for chilly evenings and adds texture to your room.
- Use cushions for comfort: Great for propping up on the bed or adding colour to a chair.
- Add a rug: If your room has hard flooring, a small rug can help it feel warmer and quieter.
None of these changes are permanent, but together, they can shift your room from bland to homely in no time; a few thoughtful choices can turn a basic student room into your own calm corner of the world.
Odor Removal
Student properties – especially shared ones – can build up smells quickly. Whether it’s cooking, damp trainers, or last week’s takeaway, unwanted odours can linger and make the space feel less fresh.
Start by opening the windows regularly. Even ten minutes of airflow can refresh a room and help avoid mustiness. Don’t leave washing hanging around for too long, and empty bins often – especially in communal areas.
You can also use reed diffusers, plug-in air fresheners, or natural solutions like baking soda or white vinegar to neutralise smells. A clean‑smelling home feels more relaxing and is much nicer to come back to after a day on campus.
Looking for a student let in Derby? Contact Arboretum Lettings now
If you’re planning to rent student accommodation in Derby, we can help you find the right place to call home. At Arboretum Lettings, we offer affordable, well‑located student houses and flats close to the University of Derby’s main campuses. Most include bills, and we’re on hand if you ever need support.
Take the stress out of student living – get in touch with our team today to view available properties and secure your space.
