August 2021

Home is a place of comfort and sanctuary.  There is a growing recognition that this can be improved upon in the post-COVID world by making better use of existing spaces as we adjust to new lifestyles.

We now spend more time at home working, studying or just relaxing.  Common areas are being reconsidered to accommodate these growing trends as designers look at how residents can better enjoy their amenities in the post-COVID world.

Greater flexibility in how spaces can be utilized is important.  Residents in high-rise communities have others above, below and next to them.  There is no space for expansion so they are dependent on common areas.

Interest in multipurpose “flex-spaces” is growing for both personal and common spaces.  In the home room is needed to study, work, play and relax.  Buyers are interested in homes where rooms can easily convert from one role to another throughout the day.  More are expecting to work from home on a permanent or part-time basis.  Some require a permanent office while others desire flexibility to repurpose any office space they create.

In high-rise communities both flexible coworking spaces and single occupancy pods offer solutions.  With common area spaces being limited, greater importance is placed on spaces being used for multiple purposes.  Convertible furniture options that are easy to store or rearrange include pop-up desks, collapsible conference tables, segmental seating arrangements, and modular wall panels.  Spaces planned and arranged in this way can serve multiple purposes and quickly be rearranged as needed.

Different fabrics and surfaces with antimicrobial properties are being recommended that are easier to keep safe and clean.  Fewer throw pillows in lobbies and common areas mean fewer surfaces to transmit germs and surfaces to clean.  Vinyl coverings are more durable and easier to clean.  For countertops and desks, non-porous materials like quartz and soapstone are easier to clean, disinfect and maintain.

Hand sanitizer systems are available in a variety of finishes, colours and materials to fit with modern designs.  Some can be customized with room numbers and lighting.

Elevators, lighting and entries can be made touchless.  Ventilation systems incorporating high-efficiency filters and UV lights can invisibly offer cleaner air.

Residents want greater access to outdoors and light which can be accomplished by creating indoor/outdoor spaces with more windows, green walls and sliding walls.  Balconies, terraces, roof decks and courtyards all provide outdoor space and are increasingly popular.

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