14 California Buildings • Q1 2022
New Focus On Pandemic Era Multifamily Design
One of the most exciting and beneficial changes resulting from the pandemic is a refocus on multifamily design, and it comes at a time when apartment and condo living is becoming more popular than ever, especially among the young and seniors. There is a new focus on creating more outdoor spaces like balconies or other areas where residents can gather safely and enjoy a biophilic experience. We are realizing the benefits of healthier ventilation and keeping elevators and common areas safer from airborne infections with new technology. Technology is also being used more to provide better access and communication and used also to improve 24/7 delivery and mail access. And the massive work-from-home trend will result in designs that permit multifamily residents to work without encroaching on living spaces. Architects are devoting considerable attention to new multifamily requirements. Michael C. Lin, a design director of Gensler’s San Francisco office, says, “The role of home has evolved over the course of the pandemic. Now that people are spending more time at home, spaces need to accommodate different modes of living and working. For multifamily design, residents’ priorities have shifted to in-unit experience, well-designed spaces, and affordability. Shared amenities can help attract residents to the building, but they are currently not a primary driver for resident satisfaction. There is a new importance placed on designing versatile work zones, reliable internet connectivity, storage solutions, and lobby delivery systems. The pandemic has also
emphasized the importance of health and wellness, particularly through outdoor spaces, natural light, and ways to bring the outside in like operable windows and balconies. “It is critical to understand who spaces are designed for and their priorities. Units designed with a user-centric approach will consider diverse lifestyles, interests, expectations and the overall satisfaction of residents. According to our recent residential experience survey, respondents ranked affordability as the top driver for choosing a home, regardless of location, housing type, and income and they are willing to trade building amenities for affordable (Continued on page 16)
Above: Residents relax by the firepit at Atria Senior Living Foster Square. Credit: Photograph Sarah Mechling/Copyright Perkins Eastman.
