How is Gen Z influencing design or construction choices for new apartment buildings? – Real Estate NJ

We assembled a panel of industry experts to tackle this month’s question.

Here’s what they had to say:

Jillian Dorell, director of design, Larken Associates (Branchburg)

As the first cohort of ‘digital natives,’ Gen Z expects their apartment experience to be technology-driven like so many other aspects of their lives. This is already evident in the availability of mobile apps to replace traditional key fobs, dependable ultra-high-speed internet access found throughout buildings and fitness equipment controlled via smartphone apps. Moreover, the rising reliance on technology has led to the development of spaces tailored to Gen Z’s preference for flexibility in both work and living arrangements. Innovations such as dedicated den spaces in residences, coworking spaces, quiet rooms and work pods cater to their desire for diverse work environments.

Nevertheless, the demographic diversity within modern apartment complexes underscores the importance of striking a balance between catering to Gen Z’s preferences and accommodating the needs of older generations, who remain a significant portion of the resident population, particularly in newer luxury buildings.

Steve Lidster, director of development, Denholtz Properties (Red Bank)

Rather than being solely driven by the preferences of a single generation, today’s apartment design is increasingly influenced by cross-generational planning. It’s not uncommon to find a baby boomer residing next door to a millennial or a member of Gen Z, necessitating careful consideration of how to cater to the diverse needs of multiple age groups.

While there are notable differences between these generations, one common priority emerges: connectivity. Baby boomers, having often transitioned from larger houses to apartments, view their community as an extension of their living space. Meanwhile, Gen Z’s motivations reflect a disillusionment with being tied to a cube from 9 to 5, leading them to prioritize connectivity within their surrounding community. This emphasis on connectivity extends to considerations such as the presence of complementary retail tenants within the building, the walkability of the surrounding area or the availability of alternative workspaces beyond the confines of their apartment.

Raphael Mandelbaum, principal, Lantree Developments (Lakewood)

GenZ renters are looking for convenience and prioritize a range of factors when seeking rental accommodations. I have noticed that factors include locations that offer easy access to public transportation, shopping, dining, entertainment and other amenities. Affordability is paramount, as budget-conscious individuals seek transparent fee structures. Also, flexible lease options and short-term arrangements appeal to the generation’s mobile lifestyle. They may also prefer rental properties that provide convenient services such as package delivery lockers, on-site laundry facilities and 24/7 maintenance support.

Gen Z values technology, preferring high-speed internet, smart home features and connectivity. Sustainability is key, with an emphasis on ecofriendly features. GenZ prefers other features, such as community-oriented spaces, safety measures and pet-friendly policies that are also significant considerations and attract renters. As digital natives who are highly tech-savvy, they expect their luxury rental spaces to be equipped with the latest smart home technology, including smart thermostats, keyless entry systems, voice-activated assistants and high-speed internet.

Vincent Marchetto, principal, MHS Architecture (Hoboken)

Several of us at MHS Architecture also teach at the NJIT School of Architecture. It’s a way to stay in touch with the latest trends and recruit talent. A common thread we hear from our students and Gen Z employees is that, if forced to choose, they would prefer living in an active community over a lot of personal space. The transition from academic to professional life is often dramatic and it can feel lonely once you’re removed from all the organized activities on campus. Creating mixed-use buildings focused on common amenities helps foster interaction among residents and creates opportunities to build relationships. At the same time, we’ve developed hyper-efficient unit plans that make smaller studio apartments much more functional and affordable. For example, our Three Acres project in Jersey City does just that. The six-story building has 600 efficiently designed studio alcove units and the ground floor is packed with amenities such as a bar/restaurant, coffee shop, smoothie shop, yoga studio, art gallery, golf simulator, game room, lounge and pool. By placing the amenities in a strategic position, and keeping the units small and efficient, it’s possible to create exciting urban communities at a price point Gen Z can afford.

Gus Milano, president and chief operating officer, Hartz Mountain Industries (Secaucus)

The range of amenities available at new rental developments showcase Gen Z’s influence on the apartment industry. To cater to a generation that demands remote and hybrid work opportunities, developers are incorporating commercial-level coworking facilities into apartment towers. These spaces go beyond multipurpose lounge areas with tables and ‘Zoom rooms.’ Instead, they are intentionally crafted to facilitate and elevate the work-from-home experience.
Hartz Mountain’s latest multifamily development, Hoboken Point, exemplifies this shift. Designed by award-winning architecture and design firm CetraRuddy, Hoboken Point caters to the modern ‘hybrid’ professional, offering over 17,000 square feet of amenities including an expansive coworking space dubbed the Work Lab. With panoramic views of the Hudson River, this 5,200-square-foot private coworking space is equipped with conference rooms, meeting areas and a variety of technology — all just an elevator ride away from home.

Adam Pasternack, president of property management, Russo Development (Carlstadt)

The Gen-Z workforce in New Jersey desires several options for the modern evolving lifestyle. Russo Development’s communities answer that call with amenities with quick and convenient access to public transit to accommodate the evolution of the hybrid work schedule. Transit-oriented developments with our latest projects in Orange, Garwood, Harrison and Newark highlight anticipating those needs.

We have also put a strong emphasis on the inclusion of private and shared workspaces, in-house fitness and wellness programming, along with resident events that make our properties not only a place to live, but also a place to thrive. This new workforce demands both mobility and stability — our developments provide easy access to public transportation to major metro centers, plus the option of private parking. Our communities are located close to major highways, adding the opportunity for residents’ use of their private vehicles for business and pleasure.