How to Make Your HMO Room Feel Like Home

Living in a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a great option for young professionals looking for affordable and flexible accommodation. However, since HMOs often come with furnished rooms and shared spaces, it can be difficult to make your space feel truly personal.

The good news is that with a few simple tweaks, you can transform your HMO room into a cozy, stylish, and functional home without breaking your tenancy agreement or budget.

In this guide, we’ll explore affordable decorating tips, space-saving hacks, and creative ways to personalize your HMO room while respecting rental rules.

1. Start with a Cozy Bedding Setup

Your bed is the focal point of your room, so investing in good quality bedding can instantly make your space feel more comfortable.

·       Opt for soft, cozy fabrics - choose high-thread-count sheets, plush duvets, and soft cushions

·       Layer textures & colours - add throws, blankets, and a mix of pillows to create a cozy vibe

·       Pick a colour theme - stick to neutral tones for a calming effect or go bold with vibrant colours to reflect your personality

2. Personalize Your Walls (Without Damaging Them)

Most HMO agreements don’t allow you to paint walls or use nails, but there are plenty of renter-friendly ways to decorate:

·       Hang posters or artwork with command strips, these wont damage walls and are easy to remove when you leave

·       Create a photo wall - print and arrange your favourite memories using washi tape or string with mini clips

·       If your room has plain white walls, add texture with macrame wall hangings or fabric panels to make it feel more homely

3. Maximize Storage Space with Smart Solutions

HMOs often come with limited storage, so you need to be strategic with how you organize your belongings.

A. Utilize Under-Bed Storage

·       Use slim storage boxes to keep shoes, seasonal clothes, or extra bedding neatly tucked away

·       Opt for vacuum-sealed bags to save space when storing bulky items

B. Multi-Functional Furniture

·       Get a storage ottoman that doubles as seating and extra storage

Tip: Declutter regularly, having a clean, organized space will make your room feel much bigger and more comfortable.

4. Add Soft Lighting for a Warm Atmosphere

Harsh ceiling lights can make a room feel cold and uninviting. Soft lighting instantly adds warmth and coziness.

·       Fairy lights - These create a relaxed and dreamy ambiance.

·       Battery-powered lamps - If you dont have extra plug sockets, go for rechargeable or battery-powered table lamps

Tip: Smart bulbs (compatible with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) allow you to adjust brightness and colour to match your mood.

5. Bring Life to Your Room with Plants

Adding greenery to your space can make it feel more inviting and fresh.  If you don’t have time for plant care, fake plants or dried flowers can still add a touch of nature to your room.

6. Create a Dedicated Workspace (If You Work from Home)

With remote work becoming more common, having a small but effective workspace is essential.

·       Get an ergonomic chair or cushion - Comfort is key if you spend hours at your desk

·       Organize with desk accessories - Pen holders, cable organizers, and mini storage drawers help keep things tidy

·       Position near natural Light - If possible, set up your workspace by a window to boost productivity

7. Use Rugs & Curtains to Soften the Space

If your HMO room has laminate or tiled floors, a rug can instantly make it feel warmer and cozier.

·       Choose a soft, plush rug, great for adding warmth and comfort underfoot.

·       Opt for a patterned rug to add personality

8. Add Personal Touches That Make You Happy

Finally, make your space truly yours by incorporating elements that reflect your personality:

·       Diffusers can create a relaxing atmosphere with your favourite scents

·       Books & magazines to showcase your interests and hobbies

·       A vision board to keep yourself motivated with goals and affirmations

Final Thoughts: Make Your HMO Room Feel Like Home

Living in an HMO doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or personal style. With a few affordable tweaks and smart organization, you can create a space that feels warm, inviting, and uniquely yours.

By following these tips, you can turn your rented space into a true home where you feel comfortable, productive, and relaxed.

What are your favourite ways to personalize your HMO room? Share your decorating hacks in the comments below!