WHAT BTR RESIDENTS REALLY WANT NOW
THE FUTURE OF AMENITY DESIGN
The UK Build to Rent market has evolved considerably over the past decade, and so have the expectations of the people living in it. As the sector continues to grow and mature, the conversation around amenities is changing. It's no longer simply about who can offer the biggest gym, the most impressive residents' lounge or the longest list of facilities.
Nowadays, the focus is shifting towards something much more practical: creating spaces that genuinely improve everyday living.
For developers and operators, this presents an opportunity to rethink how amenity spaces are designed, how they're used and, importantly, the value they bring to both residents and the wider development.
At AGC BTR, we believe the future of Build to Rent interior design lies in understanding how people actually live, rather than simply designing spaces that look good in a brochure.
GETTING THE BASICS RIGHT
For years, Build to Rent developments have competed on their amenity offering. Gyms, cinema rooms, roof terraces, co-working spaces and concierge services have all become familiar features of the BTR experience. But as these facilities become increasingly commonplace, they're not necessarily what sets one development apart from another.
Research from Bidwells reinforces the importance of getting the fundamentals right. Its 2025 study found that high-speed Wi-Fi (88%), secure building access (86%) and laundry facilities (85%) were among residents' highest-ranked priorities, while shared kitchens, on-site events and co-working spaces ranked lowest.
It's a useful reminder that the everyday essentials might not be the most exciting features to market, but they're fundamental to creating a positive living experience. And when these basics don't work as they should, even the most beautifully designed communal spaces can lose their appeal. For operators, getting these details right can make a meaningful difference to resident satisfaction.
It's Not About More Amenities, It's About Better Ones
As the UK Build to Rent market becomes more established, we're increasingly asking a different question when approaching amenity design.
Rather than what else can we include?, perhaps the better question is how will residents actually use this space?
A cinema room might look fantastic during a viewing, but how frequently will it be used? Could that same space offer greater value if it were designed to accommodate several different activities? This doesn't mean traditional amenities no longer have a place. Gyms, lounges and roof terraces remain attractive features, but their success depends on how well they respond to residents' needs.
Flexible, multi-functional spaces can provide a more considered approach, allowing residents to use amenities in ways that suit their lifestyles. This also means thinking carefully about the return on every square metre. Amenity space represents a significant investment, so ensuring it has a clear purpose and is regularly used should be a key consideration from the earliest design stages.
A More Inclusive Approach to Wellbeing
Wellbeing continues to influence residential design, but we believe the conversation needs to extend beyond traditional fitness facilities. While gyms and exercise studios remain important, wellbeing means different things to different people.
For some residents, it's about having somewhere to exercise and socialise. For others, it's about finding a quiet space to unwind or take a break from a busy environment. Meditation rooms, quieter lounges and spaces designed for reflection can provide valuable alternatives to more active communal areas.
We're also seeing greater recognition of the importance of neuroinclusive design. Considering acoustics, lighting, sensory comfort and opportunities for privacy can help create environments that feel more welcoming to residents with different needs and preferences.
Importantly, inclusive design doesn't always mean adding another dedicated amenity. Sometimes it's about making existing spaces more adaptable, comfortable and accessible to a wider range of people.
Designing for Long-Term Value
As resident expectations evolve, there's an important question to consider: are amenity spaces delivering the value they were designed to provide?
Knight Frank's BTR Resident Experience Index offers an interesting perspective. Its research across 277 schemes found that developments with the highest resident experience scores achieved a 14% rental premium over their local market, while the lowest-scoring schemes typically let at 2% below the local average.
While resident experience goes beyond amenities alone, the findings highlight the commercial value of creating places people genuinely enjoy living in. Underused spaces still require maintenance, management and ongoing investment. By contrast, well-designed amenities that serve a clear purpose can encourage greater use, improve resident satisfaction and contribute to the overall appeal of a development.
Of course, not every development needs the same facilities. A city-centre scheme aimed at young professionals will have different requirements from a suburban development attracting families or a broader mix of residents.
At AGC BTR, we take the time to understand who we're designing for, considering how residents will use each space and what matters most to them. This helps us create interiors that are not only visually appealing but practical, purposeful and suited to the people who live there.
As the UK Build to Rent market continues to evolve, we believe the focus should be on creating spaces that work harder, rather than simply offering more. The most successful amenity spaces are those that feel like a natural extension of residents' homes, offering flexibility, convenience and opportunities to connect with others.
Ultimately, great amenity design isn't measured by how impressive a space looks when it's empty. It's measured by how well it works when people use it.
Planning a new Build to Rent development or reviewing the amenities within an existing scheme? We'd love to hear what you're planning. Get in touch with our team to explore how we can make your amenity spaces work harder.