A new era of home-centered living is redefining what renters value most. With a remarkable 87% now preferring to stay in rather than go out, comfort and functionality have taken priority. This trend, highlighted in the Rently 2025 Apartment Design & Decor Trends Report, is reshaping lifestyle habits and how renters design their living spaces. Apartments are no longer just places to rest—they’re becoming destinations for relaxation, entertainment, and connection, tailored to support a more intentional, home-focused lifestyle.
Cozy and Comfortable Is the New Luxury
For many renters, luxury no longer means nights on the town—it’s about creating a home that feels indulgent and restorative. Soft textures, layered lighting, and ergonomic furniture are now top priorities, fueling demand for high-quality bedding, oversized couches, heated blankets, and premium home fragrances. What was once considered a splurge is quickly becoming essential.
This shift also reflects a growing interest in personal expression in home décor. Renters are curating their spaces with decor that sparks joy—nostalgic items, bold accent walls, or unique secondhand finds. Customization is key, with design choices rooted in comfort, individuality, and emotional connection. The goal is to create an environment that is both beautiful and deeply personal, one that feels like a true retreat from the outside world.
The Rise of Entertaining at Home
With staying in becoming the preferred lifestyle, renters are adapting their spaces for socializing. Thoughtful design choices, such as mood lighting, multifunctional seating, and adaptable dining areas, support everything from movie nights to intimate dinners. Rather than heading to crowded bars or restaurants, renters are curating their own experiences, often with the help of aesthetically pleasing yet practical home accessories like stylish bar carts, ambient smart lighting, and extendable tables.
Technology has further enhanced the at-home experience. Streaming services, smart home devices, and immersive entertainment systems are seamlessly integrated into daily life. Whether hosting a game night, joining a virtual gathering, or diving into a binge-worthy series, renters are designing their homes to accommodate a full range of activities.
Cooking and dining at home have also taken on new significance. More renters are embracing their inner chefs, experimenting in the kitchen, investing in quality kitchen gadgets, and creating dining spaces that rival their favorite restaurants. Themed dinner nights, home cocktail bars, and gourmet meal preparation have turned kitchens into hubs of creativity and connection.
Retailers Are Cashing In on the Trend
As renters continue to invest in making their homes feel like retreats, the retail industry is reaping the benefits. The demand for cozy furniture, plush textiles, and at-home entertainment setups is booming. Retailers are responding with curated offerings that prioritize comfort and style for renters who want their homes to feel both functional and indulgent.
Even major retailers are adjusting their inventory to meet these evolving preferences. Brands that once focused on high-end statement pieces are now expanding their offerings to include cozy, space-conscious designs. Compact furniture, multifunctional pieces, and clever storage solutions are dominating product lines, reflecting the needs of renters who want their homes to be as efficient as they are inviting.
Social media is also amplifying the trend. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are filled with renter-friendly transformations, DIY hacks, and home decor hauls. Influencers play a major role in driving demand for cozy, curated spaces—leading brands to invest in collaborations, limited-edition collections, and immersive online shopping experiences that tap into this evolving lifestyle.
The Future of Homebody Culture
With home becoming the preferred destination for relaxation and entertainment, renters are investing in designs that make staying in feel just as special as going out. The idea that a rental can—and should—feel like a sanctuary is no longer exclusive to homeowners. Renters are embracing it fully, and their spending habits reflect this new priority.Â
This cultural shift is likely to inspire further innovation in home design, retail, and tech. From smart lighting and ergonomic furniture to space-maximizing layouts and customizable decor, renters are showing that a well-designed home is about more than aesthetics—it’s about enhancing everyday living.
Ultimately, homebody culture is redefining what it means to live well. The desire for cozy, functional, and stylish spaces is reshaping industries and lifestyles alike. As renters continue to prioritize comfort and connection, the home will remain at the heart of modern living—proving that the best nights don’t happen elsewhere, but right at home.