Block Living: Design Trends That Attract Millennials

Today, residents are looking for properties that go beyond the apartment itself and out into the front lobby, shared areas and outside space. Trends show that tenants, especially millennials, are willing to trade in apartment size for space that allows them to do things such as practice their hobbies and groom their pets. In this line, some block living developers rely on amenity-loaded buildings to compensate for shrinking apartments to maximize profit, according to the New York Times. The following are top elements that architects and developers should consider as they design a multi-family building.

Facilitating connectivity

Opportunities for connectivity can be found in the lobby, fitness center, and laundry rooms among other places. With so many millennials embracing e-commerce, some buildings are even featuring rooms for package handling, as noted by HuffPost. Before investing in a trendy amenity, investors should think critically about how tenants’ needs are already being met in the neighborhood. For instance, if there is a big gym nearby, an expensive fitness center membership may not be necessary. On the other hand, if one has to drive to reach a grocery store, adding an on-site shopping service would add value to your residential building. Such components will make the residents feel value for their money, even if they are buying apartments via mortgage or just renting for a period of time.

Making the space more flexible

Millennials form the most significant demographic that occupies multi-family rental buildings, as reported by Forbes. They fancy customization in all areas of their lives, including the physical environment. This means that they are more likely to go for units with options for personalization, adaptability, and flexibility. These characteristics should not only reflect on the actual living space but also in the lobbies and shared areas. For instance, tables and chairs should be lightweight and portable to move into different positions for enjoying time with friends. It should also have an option for privacy so that residents feel comfortable bringing a laptop and working in the open. Each building’s communal space should be functional throughout the different seasons of the year and be able to accommodate everyone, including people living with disabilities. Similarly, the interior should feature furnishings that can serve multiple functions.

Making durability a priority

Just as you use UV-resistant fabrics for patios to resist damage from the sun, durable materials that will hold up and look fresh after wear and tear are essential. Your common area should be suitable to hold an elegant cocktail party as well as a children’s gaming party without being subjected to stains and tear. Also, color and patterns can offer the opportunity to add a dash of authenticity and reflect a value-adding culture or history.

The ultimate goal of any design project is to create spaces that allow people to live better.  Universal design, flexibility, and sustainability are a crucial part of today’s design trends. It is vital to remember that you are designing for a community and not an individual. Due to competition and accountability calls, every developer should be more educated and create spaces that satisfy most needs. Designers should follow today’s design trends carefully and let change be motivated by demographic and economic developments as well as technological advancements.