Although the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel appears to be approaching, the pandemic has fundamentally changed how many view their dwellings. After spending a majority of time inside, buyers will likely continue to value those showcasing opportunities to encourage productivity and emphasize personal well-being. 

“We need to our home to do more for us than it ever has before. Especially during Covid it became our gym, it became our office, and so now the trend with design in is really about the flexibility and functionality,” said Suzana Goncalves, MLA Canada EVP of sales and marketing, in an MLA Intel video last month.   

“How can we create spaces that are flexible and movable allowing you to do whatever it is you need to do?” We're seeing just a ton of really creative thought [such as] flexible furniture, flexible fixtures, flexible spaces so that we can do more and more in the home, which is also getting smaller and smaller.” 

Developers have taken notice and are incorporating novel features and amenities into the latest projects to satisfy all five senses. From setting up co-working areas to spa services, we take a look at how two different pre-sales are evolving to meet contemporary needs. 

O2 Metrotown 

This collection of 285 condominiums by Keltic Development is centrally located in the heart of Metrotown. Covid-19 has shone a spotlight on the importance of indoor air quality, and O2 is responding via the installation of an air purification system in each unit allowing occupants to breathe easier. Even the water has built-in filtration, ensuring every drop is clean, pure and free of contaminants.  

A particularly unique addition is steam showers in every principal bathroom, yielding a range of benefits like rapid post-workout recovery and reduced stress. O2 promotes an active, healthy lifestyle and provides a number of ways for people to stay fit and relax including an health and fitness centre, adjoining yoga room and an expansive outdoor courtyard. 

Redbridge  

There has perhaps never been an amenity suite as comprehensive as the one at Kingswood Properties’ Redbridge, featuring one, two and three bedroom condos and townhouses against the spectacular backdrop of Squamish. Called Base Camp, the over 20,000 square-foot oasis of shared services is advertised as an extension of the home and a place for growth, connection and wellness.  

Split into three categories nourishing the mind, body and soul, among the offerings are a maker lab, video conference room, games loft, hot and cold plunge pools, far infrared sauna, Zen garden and pet spa. Residents experience next-level convenience as well, as a smart parcel locker and delivery system mean packages will never be missed.    

For additional information on the above two developments and others, visit the MLA Canada website.