Over the years we have worked with countless property managers, both apartment and condo, – and one of the things we heard the most was “I need this one XXX [furniture, material] replaced but I can’t find an interior designer willing to work with us on such a small need.” Property Managers: SR/A hears you.
It is no secret that multifamily buildings need regular renovation for maintaining the property’s value and staying competitive in the market. Like the hospitality industry, many apartment buildings renovate on a 7 – 10-year schedule. A renovation can help to refresh amenities spaces, attract prospective occupants, and enrich the lifestyles of existing tenants. However, the existing building will still need some minor upgrades overtime before a substantial remodeling project is needed. Minor upgrades to multifamily buildings can include replacing existing items or materials that have been damaged or not aged well, upgrading furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF+E) to offer a refreshed look, and altering the space design to improve the utilization of the spaces for resident’s ever-changing needs.
To answer this need for ongoing, albeit small, design services, here at SR/A we have created the Fresh + Full program. Now in its third year, Fresh + Full is designed to provide our clients with services to tackle the minor upgrades and ensure the existing building always has a fresh, relevant, and appealing look to both its tenants and guests that is consistent with a building’s overall design story (no hodgepodge looking upgrades!). In addition to FF+E needs, we can aid with the construction upgrades as needed, making it possible for the property to maintain function, as well as an exquisite and unified aesthetic. Here are some highlights of past deliverables from our Fresh + Full program.
Dock 79 Club RoomThe existing lounge chairs in the clubroom are upgraded with new styles and colors that keep them feeling up to date while expressing a modern nautical aesthetic.
Dock 79 Model Unit SR/A upgraded the armchairs in the model units to reflect the latest design trends for attracting prospective tenants.
Shady Grove Lobby The existing coffee tables in the lobby seating area had been damaged; SR/A installed new tables in a similar look with updated accessories to freshen up this “first look” area for residents and potential residents.
Shady Grove Mailroom The bench in the mailroom had been damaged over the course of time, SR/A installed a new bench to incorporate the previously established designs into the space.
77H ClubroomSR/A upgraded new tables and chairs as step one for this clubroom refresh, giving the space a more contemporary and elegant look.
77H Lobby After discovering that the ceiling panels were coming loose from the ceiling, SR/A worked with the property and contractors to devise a cost-effective solution that repaired the damage and created an appealing ambiance as the visitor’s first impression when entering the lobby.
Ge Qin recently transitioned from an intern to Junior Designer at SR/A after graduating from Marymount University.
