Community is at the core of Vancouver’s culture. Comprised of over 20 municipalities, Metro Vancouver offers a colourful array of neighbourhoods to call home. Deciding in which neighbourhood to purchase a condo, you will have some very creative, out of the condo-box options to consider.
Condo life is like living in a micro community and developers have picked up on this trend by including amenities to reflect the lifestyles of the buyers. Just a few years ago parking, storage and a gym or pool were the norm for added bonuses to your condo purchase. Today, the list is way outside of the box.
Speaking with Monique Janower, SVP Marketing, Polygon, one of HAVAN’s member builders, Monique advised, “it’s not okay to create cookie cutter spaces; amenities must be a reflection of who homeowners are, their interests, values and how they want to spend their time today and into the future. Understanding our buyers translates both into the thoughtful design of our homes and also the unique, customized amenity spaces we create.”
Amenities offered vary greatly by development depending on the condo’s culture. Take for instance two Polygon developments in Richmond. Years ago you would assumed two developments by one developer in one neighbourhood would offer a similar lifestyle. Not the case today.
Polygon’s Avanti condo includes a 4 floor jewel-box-style clubhouse including a soundproof recording studio, a Googleplex-inspired lounge with pod chairs and dance and yoga studios with private instructors. Wow!
Monique said “the Carrera condo homeowners love to collect and enjoy great wines. Recognizing this, Polygon provided homeowners the opportunity to purchase temperature controlled wine lockers. And, for those looking to enjoy a special vintage in a stunning environment, a luxurious tasting pavilion overlooking an infinity edged water feature is included in the exclusive residents-only clubhouse.”
Looking at condo developments around the city, the amenities offered varied greatly.
What would make your condo feel like home? Check out this list:
• free delivery of organic fruit and vegetables
• Onsite car share club
• Design studios complete with pottery kilns
• Workshop complete with tools
• Condo specific social media platforms
• Sound proof recording studio
• Dance studio
When living in close proximity, in smaller spaces, a harmonious community becomes very important. Sharing, connecting and building trust with your neighbours through shared amenities will help make your condo feel like a home.
Imagine being able to log on to your private network and reach out to your neighbours for help with dog sitting or to be able to go down to the communal workshop and meet a neighbour with some helpful tips. The benefits of living in a community environment are endless.
Just as you would consider the culture of a neighbourhood in general when buying any home, make sure to consider the condo’s amenities as they will be a great indicator of the condo’s micro-culture. Check out the rest of our site for a complete list of builder-developers.
