Priya Vij on the Slow Style Home Podcast. — How often do you think about the hardware in your home? In other words, the drawer knobs and pulls? I actually think about them more than a lot of people but still, you may be wondering how we’re going to fill up an entire podcast episode about knobs and pulls! I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by this conversation, especially if you’re a renter, it’s really for anyone who’s looking to refresh and personalize their style without having to hire a contractor or know anything about power tools. My guest is Priya Vij, founder of Hapney Home, that’s H A P N E Y, and she’s started her own hardware company focused on the little details that can take a room from fine to refined. We talk about lifestyle, the economics of renting, and how to make non-permanent changes in our spaces. She’s quite delightful and I think you’re going to really enjoy this conversation.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

Designing for the Renter Lifestyle

Priya has lived in various cities as a renter — Houston, Austin, Portland, and New York to be exact. From these diverse experiences, she’s gathered a wealth of knowledge about making rental spaces feel personal and significant. This concept resonated with me, as we often don’t recognize how impactful temporary spaces can be. Whether it's a six-month lease or a more extended stay, making a space feel like truly yours is essential for emotional well-being and happiness.

The Impact Small Design Details Can Have On Your Space

One of the things I discussed with Priya was about the seemingly small, yet impactful, details of home decor – specifically cabinet hardware. Priya describes hardware as the "jewelry of the room." It's a little touch that can significantly change the look and feel of a space. With HAPNY Home, she focused on creating hardware that is both aesthetically pleasing and high quality. These are pieces you will touch every day, and their feel and function are just as important as their look. It reminds us that quality matters, and investing in durable, beautiful details can elevate any space.

Renter friendly Ways Of Adding Personality To Your Space

We discussed various renter-friendly upgrades that can make a notable difference in a living space. Here are some of Priya’s top suggestions:

Hardware Upgrades: Cabinet knobs and handles are easy to swap out and take with you when you move. They can significantly enhance the appeal of both rented kitchens and furniture pieces.

Painting and Wallpaper: While traditional painting is always an option, many companies now offer stick-on wallpapers and tiles that are perfect for renters. These options can transform a room without committing or risking your deposit.

Shower and Bathroom Enhancements: Upgrading your shower head can vastly improve your daily experience. Priya mentioned companies like Spruce that offer colorful, renter-friendly shower heads and filtration systems to enhance both your aesthetic and water quality.

Lighting Fixtures: Replacing the standard, often uninspiring light fixtures (the infamous "boob lights") with something that reflects your style is another simple yet effective change. Just keep the original fixtures to swap back when you move out.

Curtains and Blinds: Changing your window treatments can dramatically alter the feel of a space. Whether it's adding elegant curtains or installing more aesthetically pleasing blinds, these upgrades can control light and enhance the room's look.

Hooks and Storage Solutions: Stylish hooks can provide both function and flair. They act as practical additions while also doubling as decorative pieces to customize your walls.

Embracing the Opportunity to Evolve

Priya's insights reminded me of the excitement and flexibility that comes with renting. With each move, renters have the chance to redefine their style and experiment with new design concepts. This constant evolution encourages a deeper understanding of what truly makes one feel at home.

Challenging the Notion of "Temporary"

Many renters hesitate to invest time and resources into their living spaces because of the mindset that it’s “just temporary.” However, as Priya passionately pointed out, regardless of how long you stay, your home should be a reflection of you. Even in a rental, investing in quality and aesthetics can significantly improve your mood and well-being. The environment you wake up in and come home to should be a source of joy, not merely a transitional space.

Innovating with HAPNY Home

During our conversation, we also touched upon Priya's company, HAPNY Home, and its mission to provide renters with stylish, high-quality cabinet hardware. The company's name is a nod to the cities that have shaped Priya's life—Houston, Austin, Portland, and New York—and it stands for a blend of her experiences and creativity. The hardware pieces from HAPNY Home are designed to not only look good but to last, making them perfect for renters looking to add a personal touch to their spaces.

Lessons in Style and Personalization

One of the takeaways from our discussion was the importance of personalization in home design. Your living environment should be a testament to your personality and tastes, regardless of whether you own or rent. Priya emphasized that style is not just about materialistic expression but an emotional and psychological investment in one's personal space.

How Small Details Fit Into the Slow Style Philosophy

While discussing the tangible aspects of design, Priya also touched on something far more abstract yet equally important—the emotional connection to your space. She urged us to think about how our surroundings influence our feelings, moods, and overall sense of well-being. This connection is why every small detail, from a stylish cabinet knob to a piece of wall art, can make a significant impact.

My conversation with Priya Vij was a beautiful reminder that every space, no matter how temporary, deserves to feel like home. Through thoughtful details and quality investments, you can create a space that not only looks good but also feels good. Whether you're swapping out hardware or experimenting with new decor, remember that every choice contributes to making your space a true reflection of who you are at this moment in time.

Supporting Small Home Decor Businesses That Care About Quality

If you're inspired to start making changes in your rental space, check out HAPNY Home. You can explore a range of beautifully designed cabinet hardware that might just be the perfect touch your home needs. Visit [HAPNY Home’s website](https://hapnyhome.com) to learn more and find local showrooms.

Thank you for joining me on this design journey, and I hope you find your perfect balance of style, comfort, and personal expression—whether you're renting or owning. Until next time, happy decorating!