Vertical living in a virtual world

Condo living has rapidly evolved and transformed the way we lived during the last two years. Prior to the pandemic, we designed large, open communal spaces for community living. Today, the criteria for condo dwellers has drastically changed because of the new narrative of living a life focused on health and wellness.

Designers for condominium communities are now mandated to re-evaluate our design formula for common amenities and shared spaces, from social distancing, segregated and smaller common amenity rooms, gyms and workspaces to breakout pods in libraries and individual Wi-Fi study zones. The need for more bicycle storage and bicycle parking is also being addressed. Touchless technology, such as hands-free door sensors and virtual concierges, is being integrated into condo buildings, as well. We are incorporating larger storage rooms for parcel and mail pick-ups and refrigerated rooms for grocery drop-off and pick-up.

Luxurious condominium projects are incorporating more contemporary spaces for relaxation, meditation and self-reflection, including spa-like wellness facilities. Another example involves replacing regular terraces or garden patios with gardening centres where residents can grow their own food.

Vertical communities

Dedicated space for children and teens is now important for vertical communities to thrive and grow. We have taken children’s spaces to a whole new level with indoor year-round spaces that cater to families. These may include fun fantasy play spaces filled with sensory activities, climbing walls, playhouses, theatres, whimsical art installations and virtual and video arcade lounges. The younger generation in condos now have their own sense of identity with gathering spaces that inspire them to form bonds for years to come.

We have also seen a major shift in decor colour preferences, from cool monochromatic tones to earthy warm colours and textures inspired by Mother Nature. A spectrum of warmer tones, such as desert sand, copper, bronze and gold, will continue to grow in popularity because they bring the outdoors in and provide a grounded and balanced ambiance. Natural light, textures, minimalism, nature and simplicity are all elements we are seeing incorporated into new condominium buildings.

Organic modern design inspired by nature has been linked with reducing stress, improving our cognitive well-being and creativity, and inducing a more harmonious living environment. The design world has seen a significant shift toward biophilic elements. Biophilic design refers to blurring the lines of indoor and outdoor spaces. This simple concept is being introduced by opening up common amenity areas and integrating them with outdoor patio spaces. By incorporating organic materials and natural textures, as well earthy elements such as plants, water and fire, we create spaces that are thoughtful, relaxing and promote a more balanced mindset.

Functionality vs opulence

Nowadays, functionality overrides opulence, and comfort dominates design. More so than ever, our private dwellings and quality of life in vertical communities have become the pinnacle of our mental well-being. We live, sleep, play, recharge, and recentre in our private abodes and shared common amenities.

Our priorities have been revisited, re-evaluated and revised. Organization, functionality and dual-purpose dwelling are now a focus. We have adopted a “less is more” mindset as we create Zen-inspired spaces that focus on overall health and well-being. This is an exciting time to embrace the simplicity of vertical living in a virtual world.