RentUTK
RentUTK is a student housing platform that connects UTK students with walkable rentals in high-demand neighborhoods near campus.
Services
Web design & Branding
Category
Real Estate
Client
RentUTK
Analysis - Performance and Responsiveness
RentUTK’s old site was slow, outdated, and not mobile-friendly. A modern student audience expects fast load times, clean navigation, and a mobile-first experience. Our rebuild focused on speed, responsiveness, and clear structure across all devices.
Performance
• Lazy Load & WebP Images: Faster load without sacrificing quality.
• Minified Code: Reduced page weight for better performance.
• CDN Integration: Global delivery for improved load time.
• Future-Proof Stack: Clean, scalable structure ready for more traffic.
Responsiveness
We designed for mobile first, knowing students primarily browse on phones. Layouts adapt across screen sizes using fluid grids, logical hierarchy, and touch-friendly spacing. Navigation and CTAs were simplified to reduce bounce and increase clarity.
Problem - Site and Service Improvement
The original brand didn’t reflect student needs or local trust. The site created confusion for renters and property owners alike. A rebrand and rebuild were needed to clarify the experience and communicate trust from the first scroll.
Experience Rework
• Refreshed Identity: Colors and typography inspired by UTK’s look and feel.
• Simplified User Paths: Clear separation between renters and owners.
• Emotional Design: Familiar visual cues and student-focused messaging.
• Streamlined Layout: Built for scannability and fast decisions.
Solution - Communication and Deployment
The site was built as a launch-ready platform with flexibility to grow. From structure to visuals, the layout supports future listings, account systems, or dashboard features—without needing a full rebuild later.
Communication
We began with competitor research and layout sketches. Wireframes and annotated mockups helped clarify user flow early. The final build included a clean CMS structure, SEO-optimized layout, and a brand system designed to evolve as RentUTK scales.
