Re-thinking Community Space
Gyms and health clubs used to be a big selling point for multi-unit buildings, but even before the pandemic these facilities were rarely used. J.F. Finn, an architect at leading design firm Gensler explains “The pandemic has put us in a position to rethink barriers of the past and we don’t have a big window to make changes.
Much of existing real estate is underutilized and not very effective, so the principles of mixed use can be a bridge to provide more attainable, more secure, comfortable housing.”
Community space has been reinvented to offer features like a working lounge with countertops, couches, TV’, mixed use common rooms, and outdoor spaces for relaxation. These spaces provide a way for people to go outside of their homes during the pandemic, while still remaining in the comfort of their building.
“Expanding the offerings of residential buildings to match hybrid working needs of NYC tenants is imperative,'' says Choice NY Companies CEO Michael P. Feldman. “The development strategy makes sense for luxury properties with over 30 units. “