Crafting the ultimate resident oasis at The Bath House

Anew has recently completed an amenity space for residents at this exciting new BtR development in the heart of Birmingham. An opportunity to build a community, these spaces—whether lounges, recreational areas, or serene gardens—extend the comfort of home, improving daily living experiences.

Understanding the Purpose of Amenity Spaces

The key to designing effective amenity spaces lies in understanding their intended use. At The Bath House, we worked with Howells to incorporate quiet spaces for reflection, including comfortable seating with soft lighting to encourage relaxation. We also added large co-working spaces and open layouts for social gatherings, with communal tables.

Choosing the Right Furniture

Choosing the right furniture is crucial for creating inviting spaces. Functionality should always come first. We selected pieces that allow easy movement and can adapt to various activities.

For instance, modular seating can effortlessly shift to accommodate both small gatherings and larger parties. In fact, a study found that buildings with flexible furniture options experienced a 30% increase in resident engagement in community events. Durable materials should also be top of mind, ensuring that furniture stands up to daily wear.

Aesthetic Appeal

Opt for furniture that harmonises with the overall design theme. Consider the architectural style—whether modern, rustic, or a blend—and choose materials that complement those elements.

At The Bath House, we selected furniture with a contemporary aesthetic, in keeping with the industrial interior. Some of the artwork throughout the space pays homage to Kent Street Baths history as the first public baths in Birmingham, which opened to the public in 1851.

Seamless Transitions

Ensuring smooth transitions between these zones is essential. Use rugs, varying lighting choices and wall colour to define each area without physical barriers. This approach enhances functionality and encourages residents to explore the entire space freely.

Creating a Sense of Community

The ultimate goal of an amenity space is to foster community among residents. Organising engaging events—like movie nights, gardening days, or cooking classes — can help residents connect over shared interests.

The Bath House recently hosted a Chinese New Year event, getting together to make friendship bracelets and lucky knots. A great use of the mezzanine space, which was easily seen by residents as they came and went via the reception area.

This sense of belonging is vital for satisfaction, with studies showing that strong community connections can improve resident retention rates by 20%.

Reception - Decorated for Chinese New Year

Feedback and Adaptation

Understanding residents' needs is another critical aspect of building community. Regularly seek feedback to identify ways the amenity space can evolve. Furniture and interiors should be flexible, allowing adaptations to changing preferences, which ensures these spaces remain valuable over time.

With a clear focus on residents' needs, an amenity space can transform into a cherished part of their home.

"Kerry was a pleasure to work with, making full use of the space and suggesting improvements while fulfilling the brief. The amenity space fosters a real sense of community and is regularly used by our residents. Feedback from viewings is overwhelmingly positive and the space is a large part of why many of our residents have moved into the building." Stephen Wilson, Head of Property Management, UK

With special thanks to #Howells and #CordingResidential

And of course our suppliers, #normanncopenhagen #tableplacechairs #workstories #hitchmylius #verco #ondaretta #deadgood #senator #liniedesign #westelm