Incorporating Green Spaces in Urban Apartments

Improve your multifamily living spaces by expanding nature’s influence.

Urban life is where concrete and glass often dominate the skyline. That’s why green spaces have become so much more than a luxury — they’re a necessity. For residents of multi-family apartment buildings, access to greenery isn’t just about aesthetics. These spaces ultimately improve their quality of life, which is why building owners and designers should proactively seek ways to incorporate them.

Whether it’s a rooftop garden, a small courtyard with native plants, or a terrace filled with potted greenery, these pockets of nature offer a breath of fresh air (literally and figuratively). Green spaces reduce stress, help residents build mutual connections, and even foster better health. They soften the harshness of city living by providing a place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

But what exactly counts as a “green space”? More importantly, what does it take to create and maintain one in a multifamily setting?

SouthPark Interiors has designed and provided interior architecture on hundreds of properties in urban environments. We understand the residents and what they want in their properties, and have successfully incorporated green spaces across many of our projects. Let’s dig deeper.

What are green spaces in apartment complexes?

Think of green spaces as open, communal areas. These could take the form of clubhouses, activity and game rooms, or patios lined with plants and picnic tables.

That sounds a lot like shared spaces, right? The difference is that green spaces typically include natural elements, like plant life. They’re often more open air than your standard shared space, like an apartment building lobby. The idea is to provide a direct connection with nature.
Examples of green spaces include gardens, rooftop terraces, poolside amenities, grilling areas, or parks and playgrounds.

Why are green spaces a sought-after amenity of urban multi-family properties?

It’s no secret that metro apartments in center city areas or uptown urban streets lack yards. Instead of stepping outside your own front door to smell the flowers and enjoy nature, you have to head a few blocks down the street to the nearest park — where hundreds of others are doing the same.

This can be a lengthy and inconvenient commute. Not to mention it’s crowded, and in some cases, it’s not accessible.

Having a green space within your own apartment facility gives you instant access to nature, albeit in small doses. It’s not like having a whole park to yourself, but at least you can enjoy the immediate benefits of lush plant life, fresh air, and a much-needed break from the concrete jungle around you.

Green spaces tend to offer several benefits, including:

• Improved mental health
• A connection with nature
• Better quality of living

And for building owners, the benefits stretch even further. You have something special to offer, something that’s in demand with today’s residents. This means you can set your facility apart from those that don’t have green spaces, resulting in more signed leases and fewer vacancies.

Quite simply, we have found that a well-designed commercial space that provides unique amenities like green spaces are places people want to live. They hold onto their leases for longer, and often don’t mind paying a little more for them.

What makes great green spaces?

Green space is a pretty broad term, but there are a few key themes you’ll find in an urban multifamily green space setting. Let’s explore some of the basic elements of green spaces for apartment living.

Rich plant life

Plants put the “green” into green spaces. Low maintenance flora that requires little upkeep is the best option for multifamily spaces, like snake plants, trailing vines, peace lilies, and cast iron plants. These don’t need much watering and can thrive in low light conditions.

If possible, consider adding local or unique plant life if your space can support it. Having native plants in your space can add to the ambiance and reflect the area where you live.

Open air

An open-air layout invites sunlight, breeze, and a true connection to the outdoors. Urban areas aren’t exactly known for their fresh air, so these spaces can be a welcome retreat for your residents.

Plenty of seating

Good seating allows more people to enjoy the green spaces. Aim for a variety of benches, chairs, sofas, stools, and other seating so residents can choose how to relax and unwind. For an even more immersive experience, these seating areas could be made of natural materials like reclaimed wood or stone.

Mixing community with nature

Green spaces are more than landscaping. It’s a living, breathing part of your residential community. Make it a versatile communal space where people can gather and stay awhile. Community gardens are also on the rise as more people want the option to have freshly grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs readily available, even in an apartment setting.

Think social

People love a selfie. Create a place that sparks inspiration by providing artwork, unique finishings, and fantastic views. These photos become user-generated ads for your property.

Great flow and walkability

How you program your space can help guide people to seating, a walking path, or interesting features. Create separate quiet areas and activity spaces, and avoid overcrowding with non-functional furniture to create an intuitive layout.

Cleanliness

A beautiful space only thrives when it’s well kept. Clean paths, tidy plantings, and clutter-free corners keep it welcoming and safe for everyone.

Maintaining your green space

This sounds like a ton of upkeep and maintenance. It’s true: a well curated green space can require more rigorous upkeep than other communal areas.
We suggest doing the following to keep maintenance at a minimum:

• Be choosy about your plants. Consult with a local plant store for native plants that require minimal watering and low light requirements.
• Get the staff involved. Make the upkeep a point of pride for all of the staff on property. This can be a place for them to enjoy, as well.
• Fake it! Faux plants, especially real-touch flowers, can give you the same feel of natural greenery without the maintenance.

Getting expert consultations for your urban green spaces

When designing your new building in a metro area, make sure to consult with your design team about adding green space options. The right partner (and their experience) can make all the difference in making your green space sustainable and impactful.