The owners of multifamily properties have long relied on amenities to set their buildings apart from their competitors. But as monthly apartment rents continue to rise, renters today expect even more amenities in their common areas.
We interviewed Jonathan Treble, founder and chief executive officer of WithMe, Inc. about this trend. WithMe provides wireless printing and barista-quality coffee machines for multifamily properties and offices.
Here is some of what Treble had to say about the power of common-area amenities and how they can help multifamily owners keep their properties full.
What are some of the more innovative ways you’ve seen multifamily buildings use their common areas to help make thei properties more attractive to tenants?
Jonathan Treble: The best properties aren’t just checking the “amenity” box – they’re designing spaces that actually enhance how people live, work and connect.
One of the biggest shifts? Workspaces that actually work. With remote jobs now the norm, the smartest communities aren’t just setting up a few desks and chairs in an empty room and calling it a day. They’re curating true coworking experiences – soundproof booths for deep work, flexible seating for collaboration and seamless on-demand printing (because we all know the struggle). Some spaces even double as event spaces at night, giving residents more reasons to engage.
Jonathan Treble, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, WithMe, Inc.
Then there’s the outdoor experience. A lonely firepit and some scattered chairs won’t cut it anymore. Now, we’re seeing rooftop lounges that feel like boutique hotel terraces, outdoor kitchens built for actual cooking (not just a mediocre grill) and green spaces that bring nature into city living. The best properties turn outdoor areas into an extension of home – a space where people genuinely want to spend time.
But here’s the real game-changer – programming. A great space is nothing without great experiences. Communities that are winning are activating these spaces with curated events – chef-led cooking classes, yoga under the stars, movie nights, book clubs in cozy lounges. It’s not just about giving residents a place to gather – it’s about giving them a reason to. That’s how you build community. That’s how you turn an apartment into a home.
Multifamily living isn’t just about four walls and a roof. It’s about creating a place where people want to be.
How important are common spaces to renters? I’m sure renters focus first on their individual units, but do common-area amenities and spaces make a big difference when looking for a new place to rent?
It’s true that when people start their apartment search, they’re often focused on the unit itself – the layout, the finishes, maybe the view. That’s the first impression. But what I’ve seen over and over again is that it’s the common spaces that shape the actual living experience and, ultimately, impact whether someone chooses to sign a lease – or renew one.
A great apartment can attract interest, but what sets a community apart is how it feels beyond those four walls. People want to be part of something bigger than just their unit. Thoughtfully designed coworking lounges, inviting outdoor spaces or even something as simple as a well-stocked coffee bar can foster that sense of connection and make a place feel like home.
And in competitive markets, those details really matter. A renter might tour two or three places with similar floor plans and rent prices, but if one offers spaces and amenities that genuinely enhance their daily life – like a flexible work environment, a high-quality fitness center or vibrant communal areas – that’s often the deciding factor.
While renters may initially focus on their unit, the reality is that common spaces play a huge role in how people experience where they live. When they add value, make life easier or create opportunities for connection, that’s what turns a building into a true community. And that’s what keeps people around long-term.
How do shared spaces differ in urban vs. suburban locations? Is there a difference in the amenities and spaces that suburban and urban properties tend to offer?
Absolutely. The way shared spaces are designed really depends on the lifestyle of the residents and the space constraints of the location.
In urban communities, where square footage is at a premium, efficiency is key. You see amenities that are compact but high-impact – coworking lounges, rooftop gardens and boutique-style fitness studios. Convenience also plays a huge role. Smart lockers, premium coffee stations and secure bike storage cater to city dwellers who are always on the move. Every square foot needs to work harder in an urban setting.
Suburban communities, on the other hand, have more room to play with – and that changes everything. You’ll often find larger, more family-friendly spaces like playgrounds, pet parks and expansive pools. There’s also a bigger emphasis on outdoor living – walking trails, barbecue areas and community gardens are common because residents value having more room to spread out and connect with family, friends and nature.
So while both urban and suburban properties focus on creating a sense of community, they do it in different ways. City properties lean into efficiency and convenience, while suburban communities take advantage of space to encourage relaxation and gathering. It all comes down to understanding what enhances the lifestyle of the people who live there.
How can the owners of older apartment properties that might not have as many shared spaces compete with newer properties that can offer amenities such as fitness centers, pools and package pick-up rooms?
Owners of older properties actually have a huge opportunity to stand out. It’s not always about having the biggest or newest amenities – it’s about meeting residents where they are and making thoughtful improvements that enhance their daily experience.
One of the best ways to do that is by repurposing underused spaces. A storage room or outdated lounge can be reimagined as a coworking space, while a flexible community room or a dedicated fitness corner with on-demand workouts can add even more value.
Even small, intentional upgrades – like adding high-speed Wi-Fi, installing smart locks or offering a community printer – can go a long way in showing residents that their needs are top of mind.
Beyond physical upgrades, experience matters. Hosting pop-up fitness classes, bringing in food trucks or creating resident appreciation events can build community without major capital investments.
At the end of the day, great property management is a competitive edge. When residents feel heard and supported, it builds loyalty that’s hard to shake – even when a flashier, newer property moves in down the street.
Older communities might not have all the bells and whistles, but with the right strategy, they can offer something just as valuable – a place that feels like home.
What are some of the most important common-area amenities that apartment owners can offer today?
The best common-area amenities are those that reflect modern priorities and improve daily life. It’s less about the flashiest features and more about understanding what residents really need and designing spaces that make their lives easier, better and more connected.
Fitness centers are a great example. A decade ago, they were a luxury. Now, they’re an expectation. But it’s not just about throwing in some treadmills. The best communities are thinking beyond that with functional training areas, yoga spaces and even virtual fitness classes.
Convenience is huge, too. App-controlled package lockers, self-serve printing stations and smart home tech aren’t just perks – they’re problem solvers. These features save time, reduce hassle and make everyday tasks smoother. And that’s what renters really value.
Social spaces still matter. A great coffee lounge, a well-designed outdoor space or a cozy clubhouse can completely change how people interact in a building. People want a sense of community, whether it’s through casual conversations or organized events. The right common areas make that happen naturally.
For environmentally conscious renters, sustainability-focused amenities like EV charging stations, recycling programs and energy-efficient lighting are also becoming key differentiators.
At the heart of it, the best amenities are the ones that improve residents’ daily lives while demonstrating that the property is forward-thinking and in tune with what matters to them.
