March 2020
Condo homes are shrinking in size. Ensuring they remain comfortable for adults and families will require better amenities to compensate for loss of space in the suite.
Here are some enhanced amenities we anticipate seeing in complete condo communities.
Working Spaces
Smaller suites leave little room for an office. Today, those who don’t want to work alone in a living room or kitchen rely on local coffee shops. Common areas are rarely suited for work which is not actively encouraged. Among the features currently lacking in many of today’s common areas is seating with internet access, screens for electronic devices, and outlets. Also missing is “watering hole” space that includes a fridge, access to beverages and social area where those working can take a break.
CentreCourt is creating the first condo community to include a working space complete with private meeting rooms and printers. For condo residents without a place to work in their buildings, companies such as WeWork offer shared work space.
Enhanced Package Receiving
Urban shopping has changed and the popularity of online shopping is disrupting communities. Condo concierges struggle to keep up with growing volumes of packages sitting behind desks and in storage areas for days or weeks waiting to be retrieved.
Larger and better storage spaces are needed. For food orders, which grow in frequency with smaller spaces, cold storage lockers allow food to be delivered and remain unspoiled until picked up.
Enhanced resident communications should include mobile notifications informing when packages have been received and pickup deadlines before they are returned to sender.
Flexible Amenity Spaces
It makes no sense to maintain a party room or board room that goes unused for much of the day. Far better is a flexible space with movable walls, seating with internet access, screens for electronic devices, and outlets. Allowing multiple small groups to share a space makes it more accessible to all.
Dynamic Fitness Facilities
Condo community fitness facilities are frequently limited to equipment for solitary activities such as cycling or running. The space may be windowless, hot and dreary. Flexible spaces should be designed so residents can be offered classes ranging from yoga to Crossfit at all fitness levels. This allows residents to interact and socialize during fitness activities.
