5 POPULAR POST-COVID MULTIFAMILY PROPERTY DESIGN CHANGES

5 POPULAR POST-COVID MULTIFAMILY PROPERTY DESIGN CHANGES

COVID-19 has changed our way of living.  This pandemic has required us to pivot away from what we are used to and morph our lifestyles, as well as business offerings, to better suit the more stringent health and safety standards.

Below are some of the most popular changes that are being taken into consideration for current and future multifamily communities.

UNIT CONFIGURATION

Now that more and more people have resorted to working from home, or telecommuting, there is a need for space within the apartments to effectively (and comfortably) do their job.  Floor plans are being designed or retrofitted to include dens, office spaces, and even more than one private work space in the case of two work-from-home residents.  

TECHNOLOGY

Technology has allowed for residents to live a “new normal” lifestyle, limiting health risks.  Touchless technologies in particular are very popular.  Automatic-opening doors, keyless entry and motion-sensor activated devices prevent people from having to touch high-trafficked surfaces such as door handles, windows and keys.    

HVAC SYSTEMS

If the asset owners are in the market for new HVACs, no time like the present to take into consideration a system that will better filter the air.

It is quite costly to change all of the HVAC systems in an existing building, but upgrading filters to help reduce the spread of airborne viruses are known to help.

PACKAGE CENTERS

More and more people are ordering their groceries and other items online.  Packages are then delivered to their doorstep, reducing human interaction.

In the case of larger buildings or apartment complexes with reception areas, the need for a package center, especially one with cold storage for groceries, has become a sought-after amenity.  Keyless package centers tied to smartphone apps make retrieving the delivery that much easier and safer. 

COMMON AREAS

We don’t see common areas going away any time soon, but may change some in terms of what they are composed of.  

Instead of an open air lounge area in the community center, asset owners have the option of installing pods that comfortably seat one person, with a small desk for their computer.  This will equate to the need for cleanings after each use, but is very attractive for that work-from-home tenant. 

Outdoor amenities such as community pools, dog parks, and multi-use sport courts have continued along in their popularity, just used on a more scheduled/appointment basis.  

We are living in a different world than a mere six months ago.  The design changes above are just some of the changes taking place.  Multifamily assets will continue to morph to reflect the comfortable new-normal, whatever it may be!