The Future of Apartment Living

The future is coming. In many ways, it’s already here. Recent innovations in tech, world events, and an ever-shifting culture have forever altered the way we live.

Property owners have had to adapt quickly to keep up with their residents’ needs. Successful managers and owners know that it’s important to stay abreast of recent housing trends to remain competitive in a growing market. The task can seem daunting, but don’t worry—Alfred has your back.

Keep reading to discover what’s on the horizon for apartment living.

1. A Focus on Community

In an era when many of us feel isolated, more and more apartment dwellers are seeking out properties that put a focus on community. Here are a few ways to foster a sense of community in a multi-family facility:

• Communication – Open and easy lines of communication are vital. When a resident has a problem, being able to contact a real human being who can help makes them feel heard and supported. This approach to resident services can be achieved through apps like Alfred
• Safe places to gather – Luxury apartment amenities are as important as ever, though the in-demand format has changed. A few years ago deluxe amenities like spas and bowling alleys reigned supreme. Nowadays residents desire safe, well-ventilated indoor and outdoor common spaces to entertain and socialize in. (Easier than installing a bowling alley, no?)
• A personalized approach – Managers and owners can foster a sense of community by getting to know their residents better. It sounds deceptively simple, but it’s true. This practice can range from simple surveys and social mixers to all-out luxury concierge services that understand residents’ every need.

2. Tech and Robotics

We can’t discuss the future without talking tech. We’re all reliant upon technology to keep our homes and businesses running smoothly—apartment living is no exception.

Touchless and Sanitary Technology

Innovation has always been driven by the problems of the day. Modern residents want to feel confident that their living space is well ventilated, sanitized, and safe. Here are a few ways technology has risen to meet the challenge:

• Air purification systems installed in elevators and communal spaces
• Touchless operation for doors and buttons
• Electrostatic disinfectant sprayers

An Integrated Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a technological model that links every device with an internet connection together in a web of communication.

Microchips make it possible for products like dishwashers, entertainment systems, wearables, phones, and smart mirrors to collect data and “talk” to one another. They can collaborate to accomplish tasks and solve problems in an unprecedented way. The possible applications of this technology in apartment buildings are paradigm-shifting.

The IoT is a massive innovation that’s still in its initial stages. Like with any cutting-edge technology, there are concerns about privacy and safety that must be addressed before it can be implemented on a large scale. However, with the data and insights collected, we’re already seeing proof that the Internet of Things will change our understanding of efficiency and convenience.

Small on Square Footage, Smart about Space

In the past, many residents have been willing to sacrifice space in favor of perks and amenities. Now that many of us are working from home, that trade-off is slightly less comfortable.

Tech companies have proposed an intriguing solution to this problem—robotic furniture that makes the most of a small footprint. There are all kind of proposed (and extant) models:

• Beds that lower from the ceiling to fit neatly over the living room set
• Desks that tuck themselves away into the sideboard
• Studio apartments that shift from office to home at the push of a button.

These innovations are lodged firmly in the high-end market for now, but it’s possible that we will see more and more smart modular spaces in the near future.

3. Live, Work, and Play Green

The modern renter is smart, savvy, and dedicated to their ideals. Statistics show that one of the strongest ideals that motivate renters is eco-consciousness. The worldwide “green” rental industry is projected to be worth over 50 billion dollars by 2025.

In uncertain times, renters want to feel that they are contributing to the well-being of their community. They also want to feel safe and supported.

Ecovillages are the future of sustainable, self-sufficient housing. They’re designed to generate their own clean energy, organic food, and pure water. Residents of these advanced communities can rest easy knowing that their needs will be met, even if the grid goes down. They can also feel good about what they take from the earth—and how they give back to it too.

Get in touch to learn more about Alfred’s net zero initiatives, starting with waste management.

4. Stay Current with Alfred

The future of apartment living changes from day to day. It can be difficult to keep up with shifting social landscapes and constant technological innovations. Luckily property owners and managers can rely on Alfred’s property management solutions to keep their residents satisfied and happy.

If you’re curious about how Alfred can assist you and your residents, send us an email at partners@helloalfred.com. As always, we’ll be happy to help.

Sources: 

New York Times. Covid Pushes Real Estate Into the Future. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/13/realestate/real-estate-coronavirus.html

Wired. What is the Internet of Things? https://www.wired.co.uk/article/internet-of-things-what-is-explained-iot

Business Wire. Multifamily Housing Green Buildings Market Report 2021. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210929005599/en/Multifamily-Housing-Green-Buildings-Global-Market-Report-2021—ResearchAndMarkets.com

Treehugger. This Eco-Village Is Designed to be Fully Self-Sufficient… https://www.treehugger.com/housing-development-designed-be-fully-self-sufficient-energy-food-waste-4858365