Apartment Renovation Ideas

If 2024 sees you losing tenants, you’ll need to improve your renter value proposition to attract the quality you need to run your property business well.

Enjoy these apartment redesign theme ideas and upgrade feature ideas to make your rental property seem awesome to your tenants.

Tenants find it difficult to feel good in an outdated dysfunctional environment, so give them the relief they need with some new renovation ideas and design themes below to get you started on your asset upgrade project.

Good Reasons to Conduct an Apartment Renovation?

• supports higher rents that you may need to charge
• increase capital asset values
• reduces future maintenance costs and big repair bills
• improves tenants’ lifestyle, comfort, safety and enjoyment
• provides functionality, better space utilization and extra storage space
• opens up new space to accommodate furniture or beds
• improves the value of an apartment or condo
• compete better vs other landlords’ properties and rental units
• interest rates are low keeping your financing costs low
• write off your improvement costs on your taxes
• government grants/subsidies may be available for disabled access
• grants/rebates for energy efficiency upgrades

Today, renters want new fresh, apartment designs to maximize space, lighten up rooms and add functionality. An office space is one feature many would love to have.

Repainting and repairing fixtures and adding a new appliance might not be enough to meet the «upgrade» criteria that attract better renters and higher rent yields. So landlords talk about changes they make use words like makeover, remodel, reno, rehab, restoration or redesign.  Each word might describe the task at hand and the associated renovation budget.

Cost-efficiency kitchen and bathroom renovation may generate the best potential rent price gains.

20 Ways you can Enhance your Tenant’s Lifestyle

Within the 6 design themes you’ll see below, you’ll include specific enhancements.  These 20 improvement features get to the heart of what attracts tenants and inspires them to pay higher rent.  You should be investigating those improvements that will drive higher rent prices. Employment and wages are rising and high-quality tenants will be willing to pay that higher rent.

1. stylish interior painting – rather than an off-white color for the whole apartment, how about different shades for different areas? Paint is an affordable way to pick up the appearance to create a pleasant tenant experience.
2. removable wallpaper for accent walls – «no wallpaper!» Well, if it can be removed, you might want to do some wallpapering yourself to enhance bedrooms or bathrooms.
3. upgrading light fixtures and using LED lights – get rid of those aging light fixtures and covering with something modern. New LED bulbs eliminate the dull yellow light with a brighter, whiter and clearer light that removes the dingy look of many apartments.
4. removing a wall – if there’s any way to open up your old apartment by removing walls, it’s an affordable way to create an airy, expansiveness that modern tenants love. Just by eliminating that «cooped up» feeling, you’re going to get higher rent prices.
5. new flooring – there are new flooring materials that are affordable and easy to install. Their appearance can give your apartment that new look that helps you charge higher rent.
6. new windows – if possible, where permissible, new windows allow more fresh air and light in.
7. stylish blinds – adding modern blinds allows tenants to adjust the amount of light and or heat from the sun into the apartment.
8. new sinks and plumbing fixtures – easily the best way to create an upscale, penthouse look. New touchless faucets or controlled by a single touch are an elegant and handy feature.
9. new shower fixtures – adding a rain shower head or a massaging wall show unit is an unusual amenity that most other apartments will almost certainly never have.
10. flat screen tv wall mount – this can be positioned in the most useful and sensible spot to allow tenants to keep the TV out of the way and up off the floor.
11. open kitchen wall with bar table and high stools – since socializing and entertaining are high on apartment and condo renters wish lists, a kitchen with a bar nook with high stools keeps it fun and casual.
12. large wall art frame – providing the frame and several insets, your tenant can choose and print their own art for display on the wall. It’s their choice of art, but importantly it lets them fill their empty wall space with images that make them feel comfortable and at home.
13. replace light switch with a dimmer switch – dimmer switches are a thoughtful feature that lets them set their lighting levels to their mood and the time of day/evening.
14. create more closet space in bedrooms if needed – making more space for closets is sure to please female tenants especially those career women on the go. It could be one of the more affordable renovations.
15. new kitchen cabinet door and drawer knobs – no need for new cabinets. Just replace out of date doorknobs, and handles. Add quiet drawer slides which gently stop, sure to impress new tenants.
16. use higher quality light switch plates – perhaps the cheapest way to give your apartment a professional, modern look, and combine that with new touch-based switches and dimmer switches.
17. stylish toilet paper holders – there are an array of modern toilet paper holds that speak of elegance and upscale taste.
18. new door handles instead of old style knobs – door knobs are passe. Handles are easier to open and close and look more upscale.
19. wireless smart home devices – Nest or Wemo wireless smart home systems allow tenants to use their smartphones to control lighting, temperature, and even blinds.
20. tile the kitchen counter backsplash – a modern tiled backsplash gives the kitchen a distinctive and upscale look.

That’s it for our top 20 apartment renovation tips.  Should you want to sell your apartment in the next few years while prices are high, these improvements will help you get maximum selling price. If your apartment is the nicest in the building, or buyers think it is, they’ll be more eager for yours. You’ll have more leverage in negotiations with tenants.

Try these 6 Modern Apartment Redesign Themes for Your Next Renovation

If you can establish the profile of your desired renter, you may be able to perk their attention on apartment listing sites by using a creative ad description of exquisite style themes that fit the renter profile.

Give your renovation a polished, professional, designer feel that brands it as very desirable,  and create a theme that will harmonize the environment.

Your apartment redesign theme will cater to the unique astes and needs of different generations, while emphasizing modern kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas, and will blend visual appeal, functionality, comfort, and a touch of innovation. Here are some project/theme ideas tailored to the preferences of Gen Z renters, Millennials, Gen X, Baby Boomers or any renter who appreciates modernity:

1. Eco-Urban Oasis

Target Audience: Gen Z and environmentally conscious Millennials
Renovation Design Concept: This design theme focuses on sustainability and eco-friendliness, incorporating green technologies, energy-efficient appliances, and natural materials. The color palette is inspired by nature, with plenty of indoor plants to improve air quality and biophilic design elements to strengthen the connection between indoor spaces and the natural environment. Furniture and decorations are made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials. The kitchen and bathrooms feature water-saving fixtures, and living areas are designed to maximize natural light.

2. Tech-Forward Haven

Target Audience: Gen Z and younger Millennials
Renovation Design Concept: Emphasizing smart home technology and ultra-modern design, this theme incorporates the latest advancements in home automation for comfort, convenience, and energy efficiency. Features include smart thermostats, voice-controlled lighting and entertainment systems, and USB charging ports integrated into furniture. The design is sleek and minimalist, with bold accents and high-contrast color schemes. Kitchens are equipped with smart appliances and touchless faucets, while bathrooms boast digital showers and smart mirrors.

3. Retro-Modern Mix

Target Audience: Millennials and Gen X.
Renovation Design Concept: This theme blends nostalgic elements from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s with modern design principles. Think vibrant colors and patterns paired with clean lines and contemporary finishes. Furniture pieces are a mix of modern silhouettes and retro designs, creating a unique and inviting space. Kitchens feature state-of-the-art appliances set against backsplashes with retro patterns, while bathrooms combine modern fixtures with vintage-inspired tiles. Living areas are designed for comfort and socializing, with flexible seating arrangements and ample lighting.

4. Minimalist Sanctuary

Target Audience: All generations, particularly those who appreciate simplicity.
Renovation Design Concept: This design theme is all about decluttering and simplicity, creating serene and spacious living areas that promote relaxation and mindfulness. The color scheme is neutral, with occasional monochromatic accents for depth. Furniture is functional and unobtrusive, with hidden storage solutions to maintain a clutter-free environment. Kitchens and bathrooms are designed with clean lines and minimal decor, emphasizing functionality and ease of use. This theme suits renters looking for a peaceful retreat from the outside world.

5. Global Explorer

Target Audience: Millennials, Gen X, and adventurous Gen Z renters
Renovation Design Concept: Inspired by travel and cultural exploration, this theme incorporates global decor elements, patterns, and art from around the world. It’s a vibrant and eclectic mix that reflects a well-traveled aesthetic. Kitchens might feature global-inspired backsplashes and an array of international cooking gadgets. Bathrooms could include unique global textiles and artisanal fixtures. Living areas are curated with a mix of global art, books, and decor, creating a rich tapestry of global experiences.

6. Urban Industrial Loft

Target Audience: Gen X and Millennials who appreciate urban aesthetics Concept: This theme draws inspiration from the industrial design with exposed brick, ductwork, and metal finishes. The look is rugged yet refined, with a focus on raw materials and simplicity. The color palette is dominated by neutral tones, complemented by metallic accents. Kitchens showcase stainless steel appliances and concrete countertops, while bathrooms feature industrial fixtures and minimalist vanities. Living areas are spacious with high ceilings, large windows, and a mix of metal and wood furnishings for a touch of warmth.

After you’ve upscaled your apartment, ensure you’re conducting your online marketing well and writing great rental apartment ads. It’s all about attracting the best tenant via the right sources.

Are you ready to move to a simplified yet powerful all in one landlord software?  You’ll find ManageCasa has the features you’ve been hoping for. Let go of the past, for an affordable platform designed for modern landlords.

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