Multifamily housing design has shifted significantly in recent years. Renters are no longer choosing an apartment based on square footage alone. Today’s successful multifamily developments are designed to foster connection, comfort, and long-term livability.
At Stone Group Architects, this people-first approach is guided by experienced leadership. Todd Stone, President and CEO, and Jordan Metzger, Principal Architect and Project Manager, lead multifamily projects with a focus on functionality, resident experience, and long-term value. Throughout this article, Stone and Metzger share their perspectives on the key design strategies that help transform multifamily housing into places where community can thrive.
Key Principles of Multifamily Housing Design
1: Design Multifamily Housing to Feel Like a Community
One of the defining characteristics of strong multifamily housing design is the inclusion of shared spaces that encourage residents to gather naturally throughout the year.
“Opportunity and spaces for people to gather and spend time together, all year long, are key,” says Stone.
Metzger notes that outdoor spaces play a particularly important role: “The community-building amenities and large courtyard are critical in providing spaces for renters to interact. The shape of the building around the courtyard guides communication with your neighbor, if desired.”
Key design elements that support community-focused multifamily housing include:
- Central courtyards that serve as social and visual anchors
- Building layouts that encourage casual interaction
- Shared amenities located along common circulation paths
- Indoor and outdoor gathering spaces designed for year-round use.
2: Prioritize Common Areas in Building Layouts
Common areas are not optional features in modern multifamily housing. They are essential to building community and creating places residents actually want to spend time.
“Common areas are a necessity,” says Stone. “Without them, people stay in their apartments to go elsewhere. There’s no sense of community.”
Metzger agrees, noting that variety matters just as much as access. “Having several types of amenities on-site allows residents to choose where they feel comfortable. Without these spaces, apartments become just a place to sleep.”
3: Balance Privacy and Community in Apartment Design
While shared spaces are essential, privacy is one of the biggest factors influencing renter satisfaction and retention. Poor sound control and poorly planned unit layouts are among the most common reasons residents choose to move.
“Sound control between spaces is one of the best ways to address privacy,” Stone explains. “While well lit hallways and garages offer an increased sense of security.”
“Noise is one of the biggest reasons that renters leave. The design of public spaces are very important to create those areas where tenants can interact or acknowledge their neighbors on each floor. But by creating that privacy as well, each tenant can interact or draw back as they feel comfortable.” says Metzger.
Our foundation of design strategies to help balance privacy and community include:
- Sound insulation between units and floors
- Intentional placement of bedrooms and shared walls
- Clear transitions between public and private spaces
- Consistent, well-planned lighting throughout the building
4: Integrate Safety and Comfort for Resident Well-Being
Safety-focused design decisions also contribute to stronger communities. When residents feel secure, they are more likely to engage with their surroundings.Well-lit indoor and outdoor spaces, along with communication tools like community emails, digital boards, or internal TV channels, are effective ways to keep residents informed and engaged.
Underground parking and connected buildings are also a major plus. Interior walking paths are especially beneficial for families with young children and older residents, particularly in colder climates.
Safety-driven multifamily design features often include:
- Secure parking and controlled access points
- Interior connections between buildings
- Clear sightlines in corridors and common areas
- Lighting that supports visibility without feeling harsh
5: Design for Accessibility and Inclusive Living
Accessibility and inclusivity are critical components of successful multifamily architecture. While code requirements establish a baseline, going beyond the minimum improves the experience for residents and visitors alike.
“In our designs, we make sure doors are 36 inches wide and think about the end user as well as visitors,” Metzger says. “Ease of accessibility from the main entry to shared amenities makes a difference.”
Stone also emphasizes the importance of cultural inclusivity. Community events and shared celebrations help residents feel welcome and connected.
Inclusive design considerations often include:
- Wider doorways and accessible routes throughout the building
- Service pet-friendly amenities
- Easy navigation from entrances to shared spaces
- Community programming that reflects diverse cultures.
Ready to Design Multifamily Housing That Builds Community?
At Stone Group Architects, we design multifamily housing with a focus on community, comfort, and long-term value. Our team understands how thoughtful planning, smart layouts, and well-designed shared spaces can shape how people live and connect. If you’re planning a multifamily project and want a design partner who puts residents first, contact us today.