Multifamily Design+Construction magazine surveyed respondents on how their amenities were affected by the pandemic and presented the results in June 2021. There were, not surprisingly, numerous examples of property managers closing fitness centers, pools, playgrounds, and game rooms, at least temporarily; other respondents removed amenities, pushed activities outdoors, or made modifications, such as using plexiglass separators in fitness areas. However, more than half said they had not made changes, either because a given construction/installation project was already far along, or because they believed the best course of action was to “weather the storm.” The pandemic era will continue to raise difficult questions about how multifamily housing—including the amenities—should be designed in ways that best support occupant health and wellness.
Key Words: Access Controls, Audio/Video, Communications, Energy Management, Home Assistants, Home Networking, Home Theater, HVAC, Identification Systems, Installation Equip/Diagnostics