Tinkering with your landlord’s kitchen fittings might not go down well when it comes to getting your deposit back, but let’s face it—most of us could use extra storage in our kitchens. Fortunately, there are plenty of smart ways to add storage without major disruption. For many people renting homes in Greece, personalizing the kitchen can feel like a challenge, especially when making permanent changes isn’t an option. While altering fixtures or cabinets could jeopardize your security deposit, you can still find creative solutions to maximize storage and organization without upsetting your landlord. From versatile freestanding pieces to clever vertical storage ideas, here are some renter-friendly ways to get the most out of your kitchen space with minimal effort.
**I typically work on high-end, large-scale projects, but I’m excited to use that expertise to help solve diffrent interior design challenges. Since my completed project images reflect a different level of luxury and scale, I’m using CGI visuals and links to my Pinterest boards here to better suit the solutions I’m sharing in this blog.
https://gr.pinterest.com/0pz4xbclwmh9c82eo1rg3q39dk2sos/kitchen-storage-ideas-for-renters-in-greece/
LIVING IN A STUDIO ?
1.Create a Flexible Room Divider
In many smaller flats or studios in Greece, it’s common for the kitchen, living, and sometimes even sleeping area to be combined in a single room. This can make it difficult to define your spaces, but one simple solution is to use a shelving unit as a room divider. Not only does this free up valuable wall space, but it also adds a visual separation between the areas while providing additional storage for items like books, tableware, and decorative pieces.
For easy refrence, I’ve found examples from IKEA, but don’t feel limited to just one brand. Stores like JYSK, Praktiker, and Leroy Merlin also offer affordable shelving solutions, with online ordering and delivery services available to many areas in Greece.
If your style leans more toward Boho or Retro, consider checking out local flea markets and secondhand shops—you’ll be amazed at the unique finds. If you’re on a tight budget, don’t overlook Facebook Marketplace and Vinted for pre-loved pieces.
PRO TIP: Before you get too excited about a piece, always double-check that it will fit through your doorways and hallways before you make a purchase. Greek delivery guys are resourceful, but even they have limits!
Low Room Dividers on Wheels
Choosing a shelving unit on wheels offers even more flexibility. These allow you to rearrange the space as needed, adapting to various situations—whether you’re hosting friends for a dinner party or simply want to create more room for everyday activities. However, while moveable dividers are great for flexibility, be cautious when choosing tall shelving units on wheels, as they can be prone to tipping. For safety reasons, lower units on wheels are generally a better option. They’re perfect adding addtional worktops and creating a bit of privacy while still allowing you to reconfigure your space easily .https://www.ikea.gr/en/products/bekant-storage-unit-on-castors/79282544/However
If your shelving unit doesn’t have a back, you can use books or storage boxes to create an effective screen, if you need to screen off a larger area, you’ll likely need a full-height bookcases, such as the popular IKEA Billy, or Kallax ranges.
Using a Bookcase with a back as a divider? Make the Back Look Good.
Once you’ve set up your bookcase, the front will look great, but what about the back? If you don’t mind the hardboard and brown tape look, then you’re done! But if you want something more decorative, don’t worry—there are plenty of creative, budget-friendly ways to spruce it up.
For a quick fix, try using your favourite wrapping paper to cover the back but make sure it have a dark background . If you’re feeling extra creative, consider a decoupage project. You can cut out your favorite pictures from magazines—anything from recipes and fashion to travel and art—and create a collage that reflects your personal style. Not only is this an affordable option, but it’s also easy to change as your tastes evolve. Simply add new images when the old ones start to wear out or when inspiration strikes.
If minimalism is more your vibe, choose a roll of beautiful wallpaper and apply it properly to the back. Just make sure you use proper adhesive so it won’t peel over time. For a polished, modern look, this will transform your shelving unit into a stylish feature of your room.
Adding Extra Storage to the Back Your Bookshelf Divider
Want even more storage? You can easily add small shelves or pegboards that I discuss below to the back of your bookcase for additional functionality. For these additions, you’ll need to fix wooden battens - attached with no-nails glue to the harboard at the back of your bookcae. Other fixings may cause damage or be unstable This extra feature is ideal for hanging kitchen tools or creating a command center for daily essentials like keys and mail.
PRO TIP: If your tall bookcase isn’t positioned against a counter, it’s important to secure it for safety, especially if you have young children or rowdy visitors! Fix the first bookcase to the wall, then connect each additional unit to the next to improve stability. For discreet fixing points, hide the fixings on the top, underneath or behind the decorative cover you’ve added to the back. To ensure the best security, use at least three fixing points, especially if the divider is tall or positioned in a busy area of your home.
TIPS FOR ALL RENTAL KITCHENS
2.Add Hanging Storage for Style and Function
Small kitchens can benefit from adding vertical storage, and one of the simplest ways to do this is by installing hooks or bars on your walls. Hanging pots, pans, or even utensils on hooks not only keeps these items easily accessible but also serves as a decorative touch.
If you don't want to drill any holes, try using a pegboard.
The image above shows an IKEA solution, but you can easily recreate it with standard pegboard. Cut it to the size you need and paint it to match your decor—just like the example below. Not a DIY expert? No problem. LeRoy Merlin or your local carpenter can handle the cutting for you, making this a quick and stylish fix!
Pegboards can be easily cut to fit any space, allowing you to customize the layout as you see fit. Because pegboards use removable pegs rather than permanent nails or screws, they’re perfect for organising kitchen tools while minimizing any damage to the walls—a key consideration when trying to keep your deposit intact.
By thinking creatively and using renter-friendly solutions, you can achieve a stylish, functional space that feels uniquely yours—without the stress of losing your deposit!
3.Utilise Under-Counter Space with Freestanding Furniture
Many rental kitchens have unused gaps under countertops or next to appliances that are often too small for built-in cabinets but too large to ignore. A clever solution is to fill these spaces with freestanding furniture, such as a small shelving unit or a butcher’s block.
Not only can these pieces hold your kitchen essentials like spices, cookware, or small appliances, but certain items, like a butcher’s block, can also extend your work surface, making food prep easier in a cramped kitchen. Freestanding furniture is versatile and can be easily moved or adjusted, which makes it an ideal solution for renters.
These practical baskets on wheels come in a variety of colors and sizes, and are easily found online. Perfect for making the most of narrow spaces in the kitchen, they offer a great additional storage solution for any home.
Maximise Narrow Spaces with Tall Shelving
Even the slimmest spaces in your kitchen can offer valuable storage. A tall, narrow shelving unit can fit into these spaces, providing extra room for kitchen essentials like ingredients, cookware, or even small appliances. The key is to find a shelving unit that is open on all sides, ensuring it doesn’t block any light if placed near a window or in a tight corner.
This simple solution is perfect for renters because it doesn’t require any permanent installation and can be easily taken with you when you move. Plus, by adding baskets or storage bins, you can keep things organized and easily accessible.
Above: This shelving unit maximises every inch of wall space, but reaching the top shelves might require a ladder—unless you’re a basketball player! Opting for a lower version will not only provide ample storage but also be much easier to maintain.
Below : You’ll be amazed at how much you can store with these slim pull-out shelves, perfect for the side of the fridge. Available online, they’re a smart solution for tight spaces—no DIY skills required!
Transform Spare Walls Into Useful Storage
If you have an empty wall or even a hallway leading into your kitchen, why not turn it into functional storage? Freestanding bookcases or wire shelving units are a great way to add accessible storage without drilling into walls or making permanent changes. These units can hold everyday items like plates, bowls, and pantry staples while also doubling as display space for your favorite dishes or decorative pieces.
Wire shelving, often used in pantries or garages, is a particularly affordable option and provides a minimalist look that complements modern and industrial-style kitchens. With a little creativity, this often overlooked wall space can transform into a practical storage solution.
I chose this image because small wall niches—often created by boxed-out pipes or cables—are perfect for ultra-slim shelving like this. It makes great use of otherwise wasted space without taking up valuable floor area. One thing to note for renters: this type of shelving needs to be screwed into the wall, so minor repairs will be needed when you move out.
WORD OF WARNING: Never drill through ceramic tiles, marble, or kitchen cabinets in a rental—the cost of fixing it can be sky-high!
Repurpose Vintage Furniture for Stylish Storage
Sometimes the best kitchen storage solutions come from unexpected places. Vintage furniture like a 1950s kitchen larder or a Welsh dresser can add both storage and character to your kitchen. Scour local flea markets, antique shops, or even online marketplaces for unique, freestanding pieces that fit your space.
These pieces offer the added benefit of flexibility. You can paint them to match your kitchen’s color scheme, or leave them in their original finish to create a charming contrast. Either way, vintage furniture brings a personalised touch to your rental kitchen that standard cabinets often lack.
This vintage work station, with its desk and banks of pigeon holes, is a perfect example of how to bring character into your kitchen. Once cleaned up and painted in your favorite color, it becomes a stunning focal point with loads of personality. For small studios, the desk can double as a mini kitchen table, while the pigeon holes are ideal for organizing jars and tins—a stylish and practical solution all in one!
Conclusion
Maximising storage in a rented home doesn’t have to mean compromising on style. With the right blend of clever solutions, creative thinking, and renter-friendly strategies, you can transform your kitchen and living space without making any permanent changes. From utilising slim shelving in small nooks to incorporating vintage pieces with character, there are endless ways to make your space feel both functional and uniquely yours.
I'd love to see how you've tackled storage challenges in your own rented spaces! Feel free to share your photos and ideas—your creative solutions might just inspire others!
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