How to make a temporary house feel like home
Many expats in the Netherlands start out in short-term housing: a rental, shared apartment, or company-provided home. It may not be permanent, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be comfortable and personal. With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a cozy space that feels truly your own.
1. Choose furniture that fits your life, not just the space
If you’re staying for a few months or a couple of years, flexibility matters. Pick furniture that’s functional, durable, and easy to move or reuse. Tip: with Welcome2Holland, you can select exactly the items that suit your style and budget, delivered and, if you like, assembled and installed.
2. Add warmth with textures and lighting
Nothing transforms a space faster than soft textiles and warm light. Add curtains, cozy throws, and a rug to instantly make your room more inviting. Warm-toned lamps or candles can make evenings feel calm and homey, even if your stay is temporary.
3. Make it personal
Bring a few small items that tell your story: photos, books, or souvenirs from home. Even in furnished housing, a few personal details make a big emotional difference. They remind you that wherever you are, you belong there.
4. Bring nature indoors
Dutch homes often have large windows and plenty of light, perfect for plants. Add a few green friends to your space; they make your home feel alive and fresh. Even a small potted plant or herbs in the kitchen can lift your mood.
5. Keep it simple and easy to maintain
A temporary home should feel peaceful, not like another task list. Avoid clutter and choose furniture that’s easy to clean or multifunctional.
6. Sleep well: invest in your bed
You spend a third of your time in bed, temporary home or not. A good mattress, a proper duvet and fresh bed linen make more difference to how you feel than any decoration. Our bedding pack comes in all Dutch bed sizes.
7. Create a "landing spot" by the door
A small hook rack, a doormat and a bowl for keys instantly make a place feel organised. You'll be grateful on rainy days (and there will be many).
8. Cook your first meal at home
Nothing makes a place feel like home faster than cooking in it. Make sure you have the basics from day one: pans, a knife, plates and a corkscrew for the celebration. Our household pack has it all in one box.
9. Go easy on the walls
Many rental contracts don't allow drilling, or require you to repair holes when you leave. Use adhesive hooks, picture ledges or lean frames against the wall instead. Ask your landlord what's allowed.
10. Think about what happens when you leave
Buying furniture for a temporary home sounds wasteful, but it doesn't have to be. Good-quality furniture can move with you to your next place, or be resold on Marktplaats when you leave. Read Buy or rent furniture in the Netherlands?
Settle in, even if it’s temporary
Home isn’t just where you live. It’s where you feel comfortable. With the right setup and a few cozy details, even a short stay in the Netherlands can feel like home. It’s the little things that turn a place to stay into a place to belong.
Ready to furnish your new home?
See how our assembly service works, or tell us about your move through our contact form.
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