Transforming Multi-Family Spaces with Hotel-Like Amenities
When I approach a new Clubhouse design for our clients, my goal is to create amenity spaces that truly make residents feel as if they’re living on a permanent vacation. It all begins with a Concept of course. One that is specifically tailored to the site, location, and demographic, A Concept that is unique to the brand or development project, and is authentic and integrated to the community, but also creative and inspirational. That kind of Resort Hotel quality.
Clubhouses may be soft-commercial, but they should never look it. These are spaces where people reside, so the overall design should be screaming residential: it’s warm, familiar, insanely comfortable. You walk in and immediately spot the sofa you want to sink into, the fireplace you want to camp out next to, the perfect lounge for game night or a glass of wine with neighbors. Surroundings that quietly spoil you and make you feel like you’re living that full-on resort hotel life, every single day.
So if you ask yourself, what makes a hotel so appealing? Reframe that to a good hotel, or better yet a Resort Hotel. Think back on your life experiences and travel, and you will probably determine that they all are different but they all have that seamless blend of comfort, convenience, and a carefully crafted vibe that feels artsy and inspiring relating to the theme.
And that doesn’t happen by accident. It’s thoughtful design, which in our opinion is the best design.
We are giving you our top 5 design hacks to transform ordinary clubhouses into desirable destinations, by fostering a sense of belonging and luxury that grabs residents from the moment they step in, and then keeps them there.
1. Lobby as a Lasting First Impression
Create lobbies so as they walk through the door they are in awe. Even if they were just there yesterday…and the day before.
Provide a space that just makes them feel good. The wow factor doesn’t need to be over the top. In fact, it’s usually just the opposite.
Think warm, inviting, and full of life. A friendly Leasing Concierge desk…or non-desk, cozy seating, moody artful lighting, a coffee bar or communal table. It’s both the first impression and the heartbeat of the community. A place where people want to be.
2. Resort-Style Pools, Rooftop Lounges, & Outdoor Spaces
Who doesn’t want a backyard that feels like a boutique resort? Who doesn’t love Nature?
Lush landscaping, cabanas, outdoor kitchens, lanterns, flames, and fire pits turn these spaces into private oases for both relaxation and entertainment.
3. State-of-the-Art Fitness & Wellness Areas
Modern residents want more than a gym, they want a lifestyle.
We’re talking yoga studios, designated functional rooms for that HIT or strength training, spa-inspired lockers or locker rooms, and wellness zones that encourage balance and rejuvenation.
When fitness feels elevated, residents are more likely to make it part of their daily ritual, benefiting the health longevity of the resident as well as the longevity of their stay with you. Read the reviews and they are almost always about the Gym. Good or bad. Enough said.
4. Co-Working Spaces & Business Lounges
Even when you are on vacation, you sometimes have to work. Work-life balance has a new meaning these days.
Offer a stylish and convenient alternative to working from home or braving the commute. Layer in good lighting, acoustics, and ergonomic comfort, and you’ve got a productivity haven residents won’t want to leave.
5. Timeless Design that’s Relatable
Trends come and go, but timeless design endures. Unless you’re intentionally recreating a historic style, keep the look fresh, current, and authentic to the era of the modern day.
Start with high-quality, enduring materials. Who doesn’t love wood, stone, brick?
Layer in elements like fire, water, and metal for texture and storytelling. These natural materials have been around forever, and nature isn’t going anywhere (if we stay out of it) Nature is what every child, adult, or elderly person loves.
Timeless designs bring a sense of familiar and comfort, bridges a connection between humans and the built environment…and that never goes out of style.
Plus, you don’t have to do a total rehaul in 10 years. Which would be the least of my reasons, but the highest reason to Devs.
