The ever-evolving landscape of condo living is swiftly adapting to modern lifestyles, with new trends redefining comfort and convenience. Especially as condos are becoming an increasingly popular choice amongst homeowners, developers are incorporating features to enhance the standard of living sustainably. These trends are not just enhancing the living experience but are being carefully curated to support a holistic, connected, and sustainable lifestyle in the heart of bustling cities.
Let’s take a look at some of the top trends in condo living:
Inclusivity
As we are becoming more conscious of inclusivity, new condo developments are being designed to make everyone feel welcome. Many experts believe that there will be a bigger focus on creating homes that cater to neurodiverse individuals. Considering different people respond differently to colours, textures, and lighting, it’s becoming important to create spaces where everyone feels comfortable, and can thrive. For example, using softer colours, neutral-toned finishings, and simpler patterns to create surroundings that are not distracting or overwhelming. As smart technology is becoming the status quo in new developments, a shift in focus to designing homes so the elderly can use them just as easily as their grandchildren is also expected. This could make independent living accessible to everyone.
Sustainable & Energy-efficient Homes
In line with Ontario’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint and becoming more environmentally friendly, a focus on sustainability is on the rise. Many new condos now come equipped with green features such as energy-efficient appliances, green roofs, low-flow toilets and showerheads, low VOC paints to improve indoor air quality, and more spaces for natural light and air to reduce energy consumption. These initiatives are further making way for technologies that will allow developers to construct buildings with zero carbon footprint. Following this trend, the City of Vancouver plans to transition to zero-emission buildings in all new construction by 2030.
Smart Technology
The incorporation of smart technologies in new developments is on the rise and is expected to reach new heights in the near future. Advancements are aimed at combining the growing demand for modern living, sustainability, and accessibility. Features such as smart security allow residents to access their security features through their smartphones. Smart lighting and smart thermostats that show real-time energy consumption are becoming the new normal with more condos being developed. These efforts to make new homes smarter are inspired by making residents’ lives easier. For example, a fridge that tells you what groceries you need to buy based on what you already have in order to reduce food waste.
Expanding Amenities
A more strategic and thoughtful approach to including amenities in buildings and homes has been in demand. Especially as the work paradigm has shifted to more people working from home, the need for communal workspaces or multifunctional layouts has gained momentum. Modern buildings are rich in amenities like never before. New developments feature amenities like fully-equipped gyms, swimming pools, rooftop gardens, barbecue areas, and even spaces for outdoor sports within the same building. In fact, the construction of mixed-use buildings has also gained popularity as more people prefer a space where they can access everyday necessities like convenience stores and cafés. With a growing demand for a convenient and luxurious lifestyle, this trend is expected to continue growing.
Focus on Self-care
The concept of home as a sanctuary has gained prominence, especially following the periods of lockdown, and the demand for condos to include wellness features has become prevalent. This shift sees condos transforming into holistic wellness hubs, where self-care extends beyond the traditional gym setting into daily living spaces. Elements like a bathroom that turns into a mini spa, underwater speakers, and spacious showers with accent lighting to soothe the senses. Residents now crave personal retreats within their homes for relaxation and rejuvenation, leading to innovative indoor designs promoting tranquillity and mental well-being. Equally, there’s a revitalized emphasis on accessible outdoor elements like balconies, parkettes, and rooftop gardens allowing residents to reconnect with nature without venturing far from home. This comprehensive approach to wellness underscores a deeper communal desire for a health-conscious lifestyle, balancing physical vitality with emotional and mental health.
We’re excited to see how these new trends take shape and completely transform the very definition of condo living. Learn more about how we are developing forward-thinking residential and commercial spaces here.