‘Room-scrolling’ has replaced doomscrolling, with 86% of Brits polled admitting they browse property listings on sites like Rightmove and Zoopla purely for interior inspiration rather than to move house, according to new research of 2,000 adults by Homesense.
Properties on the market are set to peak this spring, and Gen Z will be sifting for their best ideas, with one-third (35%) of under-35s saying property listings are now one of their main sources of home inspiration.
A third of UK adults spend up to an hour a week having a snoop around people’s kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms in search of ideas they can recreate in their own homes, while more than a quarter of Gen Z dive in multiple times weekly, with some scrolling for as long as two hours at a stretch.
Room-scrolling is shaping the interiors Brits crave. Traditional interiors, riding the Bridgerton-core revival with grand chandeliers and velvet drapes, and Modern sleek minimalism, with glossy surfaces and pared-back elegance, lead the pack (32%). Scandi-neutral minimalism, inspired by Nordic calm and airy spaces, follows on 22%, while Hygge-style of cosy, layered soft throws, candles, and warm textures comes in at 21%. Over half (55%) of people feel inspired to recreate a homeware look after seeing it in a property listing.
Regional tastes show clear patterns when it comes to interior styles. Traditional interiors, with their Regency-inspired grandeur and charm, are most popular in the East Midlands (42%) and London (34%). Modern, sleek minimalism dominates in Birmingham (39%) and the Southeast (35%), where glossy surfaces and pared-back elegance reign. Surprisingly, while Scandi-neutral minimalism dominates in East England, Gloucester leading the way at 75%, a third of Northern Ireland residents in Derry (33%) prefer cosy, layered Hygge-style interiors instead.
But while Brits are searching for style inspiration, 81% feel redecorating is beyond their reach.
Homesense teamed up with interior expert Rebecca Constable to show that styling doesn’t have to come with a huge price tag, with a first-of-its-kind property listing takeover that transforms real homes on the market using in-store products.
“A few simple changes can completely transform a space and make it more appealing to buyers. Think bold lighting, cosy layered textiles, or a statement sofa. And you don’t need to spend a fortune,” the renowned TV stylist said.
“Homesense offers one-of-a-kind treasures for up to 60% less. From standout décor that instantly brightens a room to unique pieces that give any space personality, it’s the small touches that make the biggest impact without overwhelming the home.”
Rebecca has shared some top tips for making your home stand out on property sites.
Find your local store at Homesense.com/store finder and give your home the ultimate refresh with one-of-a-kind treasures for up to 60% less.
How to make your home more sellable
Declutter thoroughly, depersonalise while keeping soft styling touches for warmth, furnish rooms so they feel spacious rather than empty, ensure the home smells fresh with ventilation and subtle fragrance, and highlight storage by keeping cupboards and shelves tidy.
How to make a home look more expensive
Mix textures like cotton, velvet, wood and metal, invest in fewer high-quality pieces you truly love, lean into warm tones such as brass and darker woods, and avoid overly matching furniture to create a richer, more layered look.
Quick wins to make your house appear spring-ready
Clear surfaces to lighten the room, swap heavy winter pieces for lighter fabrics and greenery, refresh spaces by moving accessories or artwork you already own, and switch on lamps at sunset to create a soft, welcoming glow.
High-impact, low-effort updates
Use a large rug that fits under furniture, layer a few well-edited cushions, add oversized artwork or decorative pieces, and introduce lighting at different heights to create warmth and depth.
Quick Styling Tips to Refresh Your Home
Add warmth with cushions, throws or a statement vase, introduce one standout piece at a time, layer books, plants and décor thoughtfully while leaving breathing space,use table and floor lamps for a welcoming glow, and swap heavier winter accessories for lighter fabrics or greenery.