A lavish marketing exercise to promote Build To Rent claims BTR schemes help people “create meaningful connections” and stop loneliness.
Love To Rent week, which ends at the weekend, says: “Housing development design can be reimagined to support people to easily create meaningful connections. Build to Rent considers far more than just the physical design of the home; it is about creating communities that, in turn, combat loneliness and nurture wellbeing.
“In Build to Rent developments, communal spaces are prioritised and opportunities for meaningful interactions and social events are created to bring people together and foster lasting connections. This intentional approach transforms housing from a purely functional space into a place where people can thrive socially as well as physically.”
A statement from the organisers of the week says developers and operators are placing as much emphasis on the community within their developments as they do on the bricks and mortar. “From thoughtfully designed communal spaces and resident events to co-working lounges, rooftop gardens, and social clubs, these homes are built to encourage connection, build interaction, and create a genuine sense of belonging” the marketing exercise insists.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the UK National Wellbeing Survey 2025 say that over one in five people feel chronically lonely.
Amongst young adults aged 16 to 29, some 31% feel lonely “often or always”; amongst middle-aged adults aged 40 to 59, some: 20% report chronic loneliness; and amongst older adults, aged 65-plus, some 18% remain highly vulnerable.
The marketing statement for the week continues: “Unlike traditional private renting, Build to Rent developments are intentionally designed with community in mind. Whether it’s a young professional seeking flexibility, a family wanting safe, friendly neighbourhoods within the Single-Family Rental (SFR) market , or someone later in life looking for an active and supported retirement within Later Living, these developments prioritise opportunities to connect, share experiences, and build meaningful relationships.”
