What Today’s Renters Actually Want: Functionality Over Flash

How Practical Design Choices Are Shaping the Future of Multifamily Living

For years, multifamily developments have competed to offer the most eye-catching amenities—rooftop pools, coworking lounges, state-of-the-art gyms. But the reality? Residents spend far more time inside their apartments than in these shared spaces. Today’s renters are looking beyond the glitz, prioritizing functionality, convenience, and livability. And in a market where vacancy rates are rising and new supply is flooding the market, developers who recognize this shift will be the ones who come out ahead.

One of the biggest deal-breakers for modern renters? Storage. It’s an essential yet frequently overlooked aspect of apartment design. According to Greystar’s 2024 Design Survey, a walk-in closet is the #1 most desired apartment feature, with 88% of renters calling it a must-have. Yet many new developments are still treating storage as an afterthought. Instead of making room for practical, high-quality storage, developers focus on flashy finishes that do little to improve daily life. The demand for built-in organization, adjusta

Logic Closet by Spatia Designs

ble shelving, and multi-use storage solutions is higher than ever—and renters will pay more for units that meet this need.

Beyond storage, flexibility is becoming a defining factor in apartment design. More than a quarter of renters cite a lack of space as the primary reason they move. As remote and hybrid work models persist, renters are looking for homes that adapt to their evolving lifestyles. Smart layouts with built-in desks, sliding partitions, and customizable shelving allow apartments to function as home offices, exercise spaces, and relaxation areas—all without requiring additional square footage. These subtle but thoughtful upgrades increase lease appeal, improve resident retention, and drive higher NOI—a win-win for developers and tenants alike.

While technology continues to shape the industry, renters are getting smarter about what tech actually improves their experience. While 82% of renters want at least one smart home feature, not all innovations are welcome. Keyless entry, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient lighting remain top requests, but renters are less enthusiastic about overly complex or gimmicky smart home integrations. Meanwhile, AI-driven leasing and maintenance management are becoming industry standards, but property managers must find a balance—residents still value human responsiveness, and too much automation can negatively impact the experience. The key is integrating tech that enhances convenience without overcomplicating daily life.

With all these changes, one surprising trend is emerging: residents care less about shared amenities than they do about in-unit conveniences. While large-scale developments still emphasize coworking spaces, high-end gyms, and rooftop lounges, renters are more focused on their daily living experience. In-unit laundry, pet-friendly features, and well-designed kitchens with ample storage are becoming more influential in leasing decisions than oversized kitchen islands or high-end designer finishes.

And then there’s sustainability. Nearly 70% of renters now say sustainability influences their housing choices. Green-certified buildings, energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and eco-friendly materials are not just selling points; they’re fast becoming expectations. And beyond resident demand, these investments reduce long-term operating costs, making them financially smart for developers as well.

A Luxe Walk-in Closet by Spatia Designs

So what’s the point? Multifamily developers need to rethink what truly drives leasing decisions. It’s not just about offering the most luxurious rooftop pool or a state-of-the-art gym—it’s about creating spaces that work for real life. Renters want apartments that function better, store more, and adapt to their needs. Developers who embrace this shift will be the ones who reduce vacancy, increase NOI, and build communities where residents actually want to stay.

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