There is no doubt, the multifamily housing industry is facing some hurdles. But residents are still looking for visually appealing buildings, convenience, comfort, and of course safe and healthy living environment.
The Joint Center For Housing Studies of Harvard University, recently published an article, “Thoughtful Design Can Create High Quality, Affordable Multifamily Housing”, that examines cost cutting strategies for construction and design.
Simplify facades while still creating variation through big moves, colors, and materials
Facade materials need to be durable, visually appealing, and supportive of environmental objectives. Design guidelines often call for a mix of materials or encourage bays and other forms of facade manipulation to create variation.
Design unit layout and dimensions for flexibility and efficiency
A series of small tweaks can be combined to make more efficient units. Within units, areas that have multiple uses can replace space dedicated to circulation. Studios and one-bedroom units can be planned without entry halls or hallways. Spaces should be flexible—furniture, rather than walls, can be used to differentiate parts of a unit.
Kitchens and bathrooms can align to a single “wet” wall where plumbing is concentrated. Doors and walls can be reserved for separating spaces that require privacy, such as bathrooms and bedrooms. When possible, the number of interior corners can be reduced to simplify and expedite interior framing.
Reuse designs, rotate floor plans, and reduce costs
Developers already rely on repeated unit layouts to create more efficient designs and a simpler construction process for contractors. Typically, this repetition produces uniformity, but developers can work with architects to use repetitive units and building types more creatively without adding complexity. For example, rotating and mirroring can be used at the building or unit scale to create variation at little cost.
Creating quality multifamily housing starts with partnering with an experienced construction group
Partnering with the experienced team at SWET Construction Group, means you get the quality modern renovations you want without the high price tag.