It’s no secret that multi-family projects and apartment living are the way of the future. In Canada, we’ve seen a 9.7% surge in apartment building developments from 2021 to 2022.
In this article, we examine the value of amenity spaces in multi-family complexes and practical design strategies for them. In multi-family housing structures, amenity spaces are the common areas that are utilized by all occupants. They are crucial in improving residents’ quality of life overall, encouraging social contact, and creating a feeling of community. A well-planned amenity area can improve a building’s reputation, enhance property values, and draw in and keep tenants.
Conceptual Rendering: The Press | Seattle, WA | Interior Design by JDG
For the past 16 years, Janks Design Group (JDG), an established interior design company based in Vancouver, has provided innovative and distinctive spatial design project solutions to the hospitality, restaurant, retail, medical, and corporate industries.
We hold the view that our designs reflect who we are, and vice versa. We have a group of skilled and innovative designers who work together to invent, listen, and build projects to the highest standards. JDG provides clever spatial planning and interior design services to transform commercial properties catered to the requirements of our clients.
We will give a brief summary of the typical amenity areas present in multi-family developments, including gyms, clubhouses, and rooftop decks. We’ll also go over design factors for amenities including functionality, durability, and beauty, as well as how these factors might affect how residents interact with their surroundings as a whole. Read on to see how to boost the potential and rental income of your apartment building project!
Common Amenity Spaces in Multi-Family Real Estate Investing
Amenity spaces are essential in multi-family residential buildings. Different compared to single-family homes, they provide residents with shared spaces to gather, relax, and engage in various activities. In this section, we will provide an overview of common amenity spaces found in multi-family properties and the benefits they offer residents.
Fitness Centres
Fitness centers are popular amenities in multi-family properties as they offer residents a convenient space to exercise and maintain an active lifestyle. A well-designed fitness center can feature various equipment, from cardio machines to weight training, accommodating different fitness levels. The benefits of fitness centers include improved physical health, reduced stress levels, and a sense of community among residents with shared health goals.
Clubhouses
Clubhouses are versatile spaces that can serve different purposes, from hosting events to lounging and relaxing. They can also function as coworking spaces for the growing group of individuals who work from home. They often feature comfortable seating, a kitchen area, and entertainment options such as games or TVs. Clubhouses offer residents a space to socialize, connect with neighbours, and build a sense of community.
Rooftop Decks
Rooftop decks provide residents with a unique outdoor space to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, often with stunning views of the surrounding area. They can feature comfortable seating, barbecue areas, and greenery, creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Rooftop decks offer residents a space to socialize, unwind, and take a break from the busy city below.
Fitness centers, clubhouses, and rooftop decks are popular amenity spaces in multi-family real estate. In tandem, they provide residents with a variety of benefits such as improved physical health, socialization, and a sense of community. Effective design of these amenity spaces is critical to enhancing the overall living experience of residents..
Property Owner Design Considerations For Multi Family Property Amenity Spaces
Conceptual Rendering: Multifamily Project | Interior Design by JDG
Designing effective amenity spaces requires consideration of several factors that impact the overall resident experience and even real estate investing. Understanding investment property, we illustrate design considerations for amenity spaces such as functionality, durability, and aesthetics, and how design choices can impact the overall resident experience.
Functionality
The functionality of amenity spaces is essential to ensure that they meet multifamily housing residents’ needs and are easy to use. Professional designers should consider the purpose of the amenity space and design it to accommodate a range of activities, and an appropriate number of people based on the number of residents in the multifamily property. For example, a fitness center should feature appropriate flooring, dedicated space, and varied equipment to cater to different fitness levels and activities.
Durability
Compared to single-family homes, amenity spaces in apartment buildings are high-traffic areas that experience significant wear and tear. Therefore, designers must select durable materials that can withstand heavy use and require minimal maintenance in apartment buildings. For example, using easy-to-clean materials such as vinyl flooring and durable upholstery can extend the life of furniture and finishes.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics play a crucial role in amenity spaces, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for residents. Designers should consider the building’s overall design and incorporate complementary colours, textures, and materials. Artwork, lighting, and decorative elements can also enhance the space’s visual appeal and create a cohesive design aesthetic.
Design choices can significantly impact the overall resident experience in amenity spaces. A well-designed amenity space can increase resident satisfaction and retention, while a poorly designed one can lead to frustration and poor tenant retention. For example, overcrowded fitness centers with limited equipment can discourage residents from using the space, while poorly lit clubhouses can create an unwelcoming atmosphere. organic feel.
In summary, functionality, durability, and aesthetics are crucial design considerations for amenity spaces in multi-family projects. Effective design choices can enhance the overall resident experience and create a sense of community within the building.
Fitness Centres
Fitness centers are a popular amenity space in multifamily housing, providing residents with a convenient and accessible space to exercise. When designing fitness centers, designers must consider equipment selection, layout, and lighting to create a functional and inviting space. modern or traditional.
SpinHouse | South Surrey, BC | Interior Design by JDG
Equipment selection
Fitness centers should feature a range of equipment to accommodate different fitness levels and activities. Cardiovascular equipment, such as treadmills and ellipticals, are commonly found in fitness centers, but designers should also consider including strength training equipment, such as weight machines and free weights. Equipment should be selected for its durability, ease of use, and safety features.
Design Layout
The layout of a fitness center should be designed to accommodate multiple users and ensure adequate space for movement and exercise. Adequate space should be allocated for stretching, warm-up, and cool-down areas. In addition, the layout should allow for clear lines of sight to ensure safety and promote a sense of community among users.
Lighting
Lighting plays an important role in the functionality and aesthetics of fitness centers. The space should be well-lit to promote safety and allow users to see their surroundings and equipment. Designers can provide some creative solutions for incorporating artificial light in these spaces. In addition, designers should consider incorporating natural light into the space to create a more inviting and energizing atmosphere.
Successful fitness center designs in multi-family projects can enhance the overall resident experience and create a sense of community. For example, the fitness center called The Pearl in Silver Spring, Maryland, features a dedicated yoga and Pilates studio in addition to cardio and strength training equipment.
Design is more than just a business expense. Designing effective fitness centers for an apartment building requires careful consideration of equipment selection, layout, and lighting. Successful designs can enhance the overall experience for tenants and promote a healthy and active lifestyle.
Clubhouses
Clubhouses are common amenity areas in multi-family buildings because they give tenants a gathering place for socializing, working, or unwinding. Similar to important design elements for some commercial spaces or even for restaurants, designing clubhouses requires taking into account seating configurations, storage possibilities, and entertainment options in order to produce a welcoming and practical place.
Conceptual Rendering: Multifamily Project | Interior Design by JDG
Clubhouses ought to provide a selection of seating options to meet various group sizes and activities. It is best to pair practical seating, like dining tables and workstations, with comfortable seating, like sofas and armchairs. To take use of natural light and vistas, designers should also think about including outside seating areas, like a patio or balcony.
Conceptual Rendering: Multifamily Project | Interior Design by JDG
Storage Options
To keep the area tidy and uncluttered, clubhouses should have plenty of storage space. Residents may be given lockers or cubbies to store their possessions, while shared objects like periodicals or board games may be kept in built-in cabinets and shelving.
Entertainment Alternatives
Clubhouse designers should provide entertainment options to create a warm and inviting ambience. Large-screen televisions, pool tables, board games, and even video gaming consoles are examples of this. To promote socialization and entertainment, designers might think about including kitchenettes or bar sections.
A sense of community can be fostered and the experience for tenants can be improved with effective clubhouse designs in multifamily projects. Remember that thoughtful consideration of seating layouts, storage options, and entertainment alternatives is necessary when creating functional clubhouses.
Rooftop Decks
Rooftop decks are a popular amenity space in multi-family projects, providing residents with stunning views and a unique outdoor experience. Designers must carefully consider furniture selection, lighting, and greenery to create a functional and comfortable space for residents to enjoy.
Tap & Barrel – Bridges | Granville Island, BC | Interior Design by JDG
Furniture selection
When designing rooftop decks, furniture selection is crucial to creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Durable and weather-resistant furniture is essential to withstand outdoor elements, and comfortable seating options, such as lounge chairs and sofas, should be paired with functional seating, such as dining tables and chairs.
Lighting
Lighting is another important consideration when designing rooftop decks. Proper lighting can enhance the ambiance of the space and create a safe and inviting environment. Lighting options can include string lights, sconces, and even fire pits, which can add warmth and create a cozy atmosphere and encourage residents to use the outdoor space during the evenings as well.
Greenery
Incorporating greenery is an effective way to create a natural and inviting atmosphere on rooftop decks. Designers can use planters, green walls, or even create rooftop gardens to incorporate greenery into the space. This not only adds beauty but can also help with temperature control and noise reduction.
Successful rooftop deck designs in multi-family projects can provide residents with a unique and memorable outdoor experience. For example, the rooftop deck at The Avery in San Francisco features comfortable lounge seating, fire pits, and lush greenery, creating a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city.
Designing effective rooftop decks requires careful consideration of furniture selection, lighting, and greenery. Successful designs can provide residents with a unique outdoor experience and create a sense of relaxation and tranquility.
Conclusion
It’s not a secret that amenity spaces are a critical component of multifamily housing projects compared to single-family property, providing residents with a sense of community, comfort, and convenience.
The design of these spaces is essential to create an environment that enhances the overall resident experience. Designers must consider functionality, durability, aesthetics, and the specific needs of each amenity space when creating designs that cater to the target market.
Conceptual Rendering: Eagleview Heights | Gibsons, BC | Interior Design by JDG
As a well-established interior design firm, Janks Design Group has a deep understanding of the importance of amenity spaces in multi-family projects. Our experienced and creative team offers world-class design solutions tailored to the needs of our clients. Whether it’s a fitness center, clubhouse, or rooftop deck, we strive to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, resulting in a memorable resident experience.
If you’re looking for an interior design firm that can create unique and innovative amenity spaces for your multi-family project, choose Janks Design Group. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you bring your vision to life.
