There are also many designer rental properties on the rental market. A designer rental is a rental property that reflects the care and concept of an architect or designer and stands out for its design quality, amenities, and individuality. It is not only stylish, but also designed with features that make daily living more comfortable. In this article, we explain the characteristics of designer rentals, how to find them, and recommended websites.
What is the definition of a designer property?
There is no strict definition of a designer property, but it often refers to a property that reflects the attention to detail of an architect, interior designer, spatial designer, or similar professional. Exposed concrete, spiral staircases, and distinctive exterior walls are typical features that are not usually seen in standard rental properties. That said, some properties only look stylish from the outside while the interior is fairly ordinary, so it is important to check both during a viewing.
Characteristics of designer rentals
Distinctive and stylish exterior and interior design
Exterior walls made from special materials, exposed concrete, unique floor plans, and solid wood flooring are examples of the attention to detail that standard properties usually do not offer. Properties filled with creative ideas, such as turning part of a room into a triangular storage space, are also not unusual.
Well-equipped amenities
Designer rentals often come with more extensive amenities than usual, such as large windows, intercoms with TV monitors, spacious closets, and parcel lockers, which can raise everyday living quality by a meaningful margin.
Rent is higher than for standard properties
Because more attention is paid to design and amenities, rent is generally set higher than for standard properties with similar conditions. It is best to consider this carefully in balance with your budget.
Websites and services for finding designer rentals
- 東京R不動産（RealTokyoEstate）: Known for unique search categories such as “warehouse-like” and “retro charm.” It lists distinctive properties mainly in and around Tokyo
- R-STORE: A web-only real estate company. It includes a designer-property filter, making it easy to narrow down results, and it also offers an official app
- good room: Specializes in designer and renovated properties, with ratings by category such as design, location, and amenities, along with “points of interest”
- MAISON ABLE MAGAZINE: A property information site for women operated by ABLE. It also offers substantial rental-related articles
- Linea（リネア建築企画）: A specialized site for designer apartments that promotes simple and comfortable living
Daily care is important for keeping the flooring and interior finishes of designer properties in good condition. It is also helpful to understand flooring damage and restoration obligations so you can reduce the risk of problems when moving out.
Related reading
- What should you do if flooring in a rental property starts peeling? Basic knowledge of restoration and costs
- When does a penalty apply for canceling a rental agreement early?
- Strategies and key points for successfully negotiating lower rent
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q1. What is a designer property?
- It is a property with a high level of design that reflects the attention to detail of an architect or designer. There is no strict definition, and some properties are only stylish on the outside, so it is important to confirm the details during a viewing.
- Q2. Is rent for designer rentals expensive?
- In many cases, it is more expensive than standard properties with similar conditions. The additional cost reflects the emphasis on design and amenities.
- Q3. Are designer properties difficult to live in?
- Even properties that emphasize design are often planned with comfort in mind, so they are not necessarily difficult to live in. Check the layout flow, storage, and amenities in person during the viewing.
- Q4. Where can you look for designer rentals?
- They are easier to find on sites that specialize in or strongly focus on designer properties, such as 東京R不動産, R-STORE, and good room.
- Q5. What should you watch out for when living in a designer property?
- Repair and restoration costs may be higher because of the distinctive interior finishes. We recommend submitting a move-in condition report and keeping photo records of the property.
