Post-pandemic multifamily design

Multifamily owners are revolutionizing modern living environments
Get design inspiration for building in the age of coronavirus

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed the way Americans view the concept of ‘home.’ Now that people are living, working, and playing in the same spaces, developers are embracing flexibility. Homes and apartments need to be family friendly, but also work friendly—with areas that can easily convert from cozy to formal.

With this flexible philosophy in mind, today’s top multifamily experts have rounded up the top design trends about to hit the luxury market. To be clear, these trends are not solely in response to the coronavirus. For the past decade, more and more employers have loosened up on their work-from-home policies, allowing workers to go virtual.

According to Multi-Housing News, “The crossover between work life and home life has been years in the making. Now more than ever, the need for home environments that are conducive to focused work is apparent, and unit design should reflect this shift.”

Financing future flex spaces

Creating a space that meets the needs of work, play, and family will cost a pretty penny. Owners and investors may be discouraged by today’s shaky economy. But unlike other sectors, multifamily real estate has enjoyed solid performance these past six months.

“Multifamily has largely evaded the economic impact of COVID-19,” reports the National Multifamily Housing Council. “87.6% of apartment households made full or partial rent payments by July 13. Renters in Class A and B apartment buildings were more likely to pay rent, as they are more likely to have work-from-home jobs.”

Regardless of class, size, or relative cost, your multifamily is bound to benefit from a post-pandemic upgrade. When considering your next new construction or renovation project, keep the following tips and trends in mind. From flex spaces to outdoor amenities, Everest has all the hottest commercial designs.

Top Post-COVID Multifamily Trends

1. Larger floor plans

Square footage isn’t always within our control. Still, if you’re able to expand a room’s size, add secondary bedrooms, or create a large, open floorplan, occupants can shift to ‘work mode’ seamlessly. Having at least one guest bedroom is a start. If that’s not possible, a permanent tabletop in the living room/kitchen area allows for flexibility. Room dividers or bookcases can be used to create distinct ‘zones’ within the larger space.

Sky’s the limit (luxury)? Integrate guest bedrooms where spouses or children may work and study separately. Having distinct, defined areas makes it easier to focus. Better yet, a dedicated office is the ultimate workspace.

Short on space (budget)? Bring in a breakfast nook for a sense of privacy, or an expansive kitchen island that can be used as a tabletop for work or school. Residents shouldn’t have to work from a couch or bed. Comfortable seating goes a long way.

2. Socially distanced amenities

For years, multifamily buildings were considered ‘lux’ if occupants had access to sleek coworking spaces, quaint cafés, and other community amenities—all onsite. Now that COVID-19 has forced us into seclusion, investors have to think practically. Once the pandemic hit, these luxuries became obsolete overnight. Moving forward, developers are focusing on fresh-air solutions and antimicrobial finishes whenever possible.

Sky’s the limit (luxury)? Continue to invest in well-spaced outdoor amenities including rooftop desks, courtyard gardens, walking trails, large balconies, and restaurants with garage doors that open to the street.

Short on space (budget)? Consider investing in antimicrobial furniture and fixtures to enhance safety in your building’s shared spaces. Promote physical distancing by positioning tables, chairs, and patio sets at least six feet apart.

3. Quarantine-friendly upgrades

The pandemic has renewed America’s focus on work and health. These key areas of life will be the driving forces in future multifamily trends, with buildings being outfitted with high-speed internet, charging stations, touchless entry, smart home integrations, and more. Families also want security for their deliverables, as more and more people are ordering food and other essentials via Amazon, Grubhub, HelloFresh, etc.

Sky’s the limit (luxury)? In addition to the latest smart features, forward-thinking designers are outfitting multifamily buildings with smart locker systems. Many are also introducing refrigerated storage for food delivery.

Short on space (budget)? If advanced technologies are not financially viable or appropriate for your space, consider a single upgrade. Improving internet access or increasing the number of outlets in each unit is a fantastic start.

Everest says: stay ahead of the curve