_{Why temporary living situations still need personal touches for psychological well-being}

Key Points

• Renters and short-term residents can experience negative psychological effects from living in impersonal spaces, warns expert
• Simple, removable additions like framed prints and temporary fixtures can transform a rental without risking the security deposit
• Product manager explains how personalizing your space creates emotional grounding and a sense of identity, even when you're not staying long-term

Modern renters are moving more frequently than ever before. With lease terms getting shorter and housing costs rising, many people treat their living spaces as temporary stops rather than homes. The thinking goes: why bother decorating or personalizing when you'll just be packing up and leaving in a year or two?

But according to Jessie Brooks, Product Manager at Davincified, a premium platform offering custom paint-by-numbers kits, this “temporary mindset” might be doing more harm than good. 

“We've become so accustomed to the idea that renters shouldn't put down roots, but psychologically, humans need that sense of place,” Brooks explains. “Living in a space that doesn't reflect who you are can affect your mood, productivity, and overall well-being.”

Brooks and other experts argue that personalizing your living space, even temporarily, is an investment in your mental health, not just your décor. Below, Brooks explains why visual anchors matter and shares practical ways renters can make a house feel like home without losing their security deposit.

Why Visual Anchors Matter in Temporary Living Spaces

When you walk into a space filled with your own belongings, such as photos of loved ones, artwork that speaks to you, or colors you chose yourself, your brain registers it as safe and familiar. This is about psychology, not just preference.

“Our brains are wired to seek out familiarity,” Brooks says. “When you're surrounded by things that reflect your personality and memories, it triggers a sense of emotional grounding. You feel more at ease, more yourself.”

Research supports this. Studies show that personalized environments can reduce stress and improve mood. When people live in spaces they've made their own, they report feeling more settled and less anxious, even if they know the living situation is temporary.

The flip side is equally telling. Impersonal environments (think blank white walls, generic furniture, and no personal touches) can make people feel disconnected and restless. “It's like living in a hotel room long-term,” Brooks explains. “Nothing is anchoring you to the space. You never quite feel at home, and that takes a psychological toll over time.”

Visual anchors create a sense of identity in your space. They tell a story about who you are, what you value, and where you've been. For renters who move frequently, these anchors become even more important because they provide continuity across different living situations.

“When you bring meaningful items with you from place to place, such as a favorite piece of art, family photos, or something you created yourself, you're maintaining your sense of self even as your physical environment changes,” Brooks notes.

How Renters Can Personalize a Home Without Losing Their Deposit

The good news? You don't need to paint walls or install permanent fixtures to make a rental feel like home. Brooks lists various ways to personalize your space without risking your security deposit.

Framed prints and photos are one of the easiest starting points. Instead of nailing frames directly into the wall, use removable picture-hanging strips designed for renters. These hold frames securely but remove cleanly when it's time to move out.

“Art doesn't have to be expensive or complicated,” Brooks says. “Even a simple print that makes you smile when you look at it can shift the entire energy of a room. And if you want something truly personal, turning your own photos into custom paint-by-numbers projects gives you artwork that's meaningful and meditative to create.”

Removable fixtures offer another layer of customization. Think peel-and-stick wallpaper, temporary backsplash tiles, or removable shelving units. These options let you add color, texture, and functionality without making permanent changes.

Before making any alterations, Brooks recommends checking your rental agreement and having a conversation with your landlord. “Some landlords are surprisingly open to things like accent walls or temporary wallpaper, especially if you explain your plan and show them examples,” she says. “The key is communication. Ask first, and if they say no to one idea, propose an alternative.”

Temporary yet meaningful décor can transform a space in minutes. String lights add warmth without requiring installation. Throw pillows and blankets in your favorite colors personalize furniture you can't replace. Plants bring life into a room and improve air quality.

“The impact-to-effort ratio is what makes these changes so valuable,” Brooks explains. “You're not overhauling the entire apartment. You're making small, intentional choices that add up to a space that feels like yours.”

She also suggests focusing on high-traffic areas first. “Start with the spaces where you spend the most time, such as your bedroom, your living room, or wherever you unwind at the end of the day. Those are the places where personalization will have the biggest effect on how you feel day-to-day."

For renters worried about damage, Brooks emphasizes that most temporary solutions are designed with easy removal in mind. “Test products in a small, inconspicuous area first if you're nervous. And when you move out, take your time removing things carefully. Most landlords are fine with minor wall touch-ups, but it's worth doing things properly to avoid any issues.”

Jessie Brooks, Product Manager at Davincified, commented:

“The idea that renters should live in blank, impersonal spaces is outdated and honestly harmful. Just because you're renting doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your well-being or live somewhere that feels like a waiting room. Personalizing your space is about creating an environment where you can relax, recharge, and feel like yourself.

“You don't need to spend a lot of money or make permanent changes. Start small. Add one piece of art that makes you happy. Display photos of people you love. Choose throw pillows in colors that lift your mood. These small touches create a ripple effect that changes how you experience your home every single day. Your mental health is worth the effort, even if you're only staying for a year.”

‍About Davincified

Davincified is a premium online platform offering custom paint-by-numbers kits that transform your personal photos into beautifully accessible artworks along with AI-powered features. Their kits come complete with canvas, paints, and brushes designed for ease of use even by beginners. The experience is crafted to be relaxing and therapeutic, making it an ideal creative outlet or thoughtful gift. With features like free previews before purchase, wrinkle-free canvases, thick paints, and worldwide shipping, Davincified delivers both convenience and quality. Overall, Davincified blends cutting-edge personalization with a heartfelt, stress-reducing art experience.

Sources

Research on personalized environments and mental well-being: American SPCC

Originally reported by Davincified.