The goals of the project included preservation of the historic fabric of the 100-room hotel building, which was built in the early 1930s. In the clubhouse, terra cotta tiles, ornate wrought iron detailing, lead-panel windows, and large entry arches were either restored or recreated to match the original building. “Residents can gather in the two-story clubhouse and feel very comfortable,” says Johnson. “We also included couches, artwork, and books–designed to feel like an extension to the residents’ homes.”
The look and feel of multifamily communities continues to change. Greater competition is forcing developers to differentiate their products–and it all starts with the clubhouse. There is a new focus on lifestyle, amenities, and services. Developers willing to provide excellent clubhouse design, not to mention quality amenities and services, will add value to their property and will successfully attract renters willing to pay premium rates.
–Christine Rombouts is a freelance writer based in Costa Mesa, Calif.
