Must-Have High-Rise Amenities of 2017

For those living in high-rise buildings, convenience and location are often at the top of the priority list. However, the amenities offered can significantly influence potential homebuyers. Over the years, tastes have evolved from card rooms for bridge and poker to business centers with internet access. Nowadays, the focus has shifted to yoga studios and children’s playrooms to meet the changing needs of residents.

To keep a high-rise building appealing, its amenities should reflect the current desires of both residents and potential buyers. Modernizing amenities not only enhances the lifestyle of those living there but can also increase marketability and property values. Fortunately, updating these features doesn't have to break the bank. Explore some of the most popular high-rise amenities for 2017 and discover ways to incorporate these trends on any budget.

Offer Concierge-Level Service

Exceptional service stands out as one of the most valuable amenities in high-rise living. The quality and skills of the building staff can greatly enhance the resident experience. Without a talented and professional team, providing outstanding service becomes a challenge. The happiness and satisfaction of residents are key components to building a thriving community.

Partnering with a professional property management company helps in hiring the best team tailored to residents' needs. Implementing specialized training programs can ensure staff deliver superior service. Depending on the location, these services can be offered by the on-site staff or through external contractors.

An adept front desk team plays a crucial role in providing residents with extra services like personal training sessions, making restaurant reservations, and offering resort-like concierge services. Promoting the surrounding neighborhood as an amenity further enhances resident satisfaction. A well-informed team familiar with the local area helps residents make the most of their surroundings.

In bustling cities like New York, concierge-style service is a staple for high-rise living. This includes employing highly trained front desk staff. Many buildings choose to contract expert firms that provide a range of services such as arranging transportation, securing restaurant bookings, organizing events, procuring show tickets, and handling deliveries and pickups.

Bring in Outside Vendors

Establishing partnerships with outside vendors offers residents added convenience without significant expenses. In some New York City buildings, unused spaces have been repurposed into valet stations. These are leased to vendors, like dry cleaners, who also manage package deliveries and pickups for residents. With the rise of online shopping, this solution helps alleviate package congestion at front desks.

In Ontario, mixed-use buildings on ground floors include retail outlets. These serve as a convenient spot for residents to grab groceries or enjoy coffee and juice bars. Some even offer dry cleaning services or a bank branch right within the building, making everyday errands effortless.

Add Simple Upgrades to Existing Amenities

While pools and fitness centers are standard, their design and functionality can differ vastly. Fitness centers are incredibly popular, with newer buildings creating larger, more technologically advanced spaces. Older buildings are expanding facilities and including designated areas for yoga and Pilates. Modern gym equipment often features virtual exercise experiences, taking users on scenic adventures.

Fitness centers in many buildings are enhancing their appeal by employing professional attendants. These staff members offer amenities such as fresh towels and bottled water, and they facilitate personal training sessions for residents. When space allows, incorporating luxurious features like plush robes and elaborate locker rooms can elevate the experience.

For cost-effective updates, consider transforming underused rooms into yoga and Pilates studios. A seldom-used conference room or business center could be converted with fresh paint and appropriate lighting, making it a trendy new amenity. Stocking a mini-fridge with bottled water is a simple addition that can provide excellent returns.

Upgrading pool areas can be as simple as adding a juice bar. This can range from a basic counter with fresh fruit and a juicer to a full-scale built-in bar. Offering chilled fruit, water, and snacks via a glass-fronted fridge is another way to enhance the pool experience. Providing a towel service with monogrammed towels and branded water bottles adds an exclusive touch.

Understand Your Residents’ Wants and Needs

Knowing the demographic of building residents helps in tailoring the right amenities to attract and retain them. For family-focused buildings, transforming an unused card room into a vibrant children’s playroom with games and comfy furniture is ideal. Parking garage roofs can potentially be repurposed into sports areas with facilities for soccer, volleyball, and basketball. For communities with many pet owners, consider installing a pet spa. It might be as simple as having a space to clean dogs after outdoor walks, or as extensive as offering grooming and dog walking services. The same garage roof could become a dog park instead of a sports area, according to resident preferences.

Updating building amenities is essential for maintaining marketability and appeal. Not only does it keep the community engaged, but it also attracts new residents by offering fresh and desirable features.