Many communities rely on the use of cutting-edge technology for eco-friendly considerations and energy-saving solutions to cut utility costs. With the rising awareness and importance of sustainability within multifamily communities to become net-zero buildings, there are numerous sustainable multifamily trends circulating, and here are the top 5 that you are likely to see:
1. The Installation of Smart Amenities
More general contractors are installing smart amenities within their multifamily projects to reduce energy consumption as well as lowering utility bills for the residents. An example that is widely used is the investment of smart, programmable thermostats, which manage room temperature systematically to avoid wasting heat or cooling. Other amenities that buyers are paying attention to are smart lights, smart security systems, and smart locks.
2. Energy Efficient Exteriors
Focusing on the exterior of the building is one of the best ways to enhance a community’s sustainability. You will notice that more general contractors are improving major exterior features, such as adding solar shingles on the roof and utilizing commercial sunshades to reduce energy costs. You may even see residential wind turbines as well on properties. These eco-friendly aspects drastically help with energy savings and make the location much more attractive to potential buyers and their desires.
3. Daylighting
Something to take note of is the daylighting approach. This means that the use of artificial lighting can be cut down exponentially by designing bigger windows in ideal locations where they can get the most sunlight during the day. With windows strategically placed, it reduces the need for energy-absorbing lightbulbs and subsequently lower electric costs.
4. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Another notable feature is the heightened number of electric vehicle charging stations being installed in multifamily communities. Millions of dollars have been poured into the development of these stations, and they provide a competitive advantage over places that do not have them. Though electric cars are still not as utilized as standard ones, it is undoubtedly becoming more accessible to the point that charging stations are now deemed a critical multifamily housing investment.
5. Energy Efficient Appliances
In many cases, the quality and age of appliances can make or break someone from wanting to live in a particular multifamily community. People now more than ever know what their options are and seek to have the best, or close to the best appliances available. This means energy-efficient refrigerators, washer and dryers, stoves, and everything else in-between. This is an easy way to be eco-friendly and save residents money long term.
Sustainability and green buildings are a vital factor in today’s society and will continue to be for the foreseeable future. These trends not only increase property value, but promote a much better lifestyle for multifamily residents to live comfortably. Even with these trends taking a front seat in design, there is still a continuous strive to develop innovative ideas and methods to enhance living conditions. It is refreshing to see how far these trends have come, and it is exciting to see how far it will go.
FaverGray is dedicated to building multifamily housing communities that not only aid in a positive quality of life for residents, but also provide our clients for an opportunity to receive the best return on their investment. Contact us today to start the conversation about your next project.
