Building Communities in NYC

While article after article may lament that millennials don’t speak to each other and have their eyes stuck to their phones, it’s not entirely true. While the younger generation may be overdoing it on screen time, they’re craving community in alternate ways – like their homes.

New York City can be where it’s hard to get to know your neighbors. People may move after just a year inside their apartment, and striking up a conversation in the elevator is more uncommon than preferred. Because of this, certain enclaves in the city are redefining community outside, on Facebook or Instagram, by building said communities into their homes.

Let’s talk about co-living.

No, we’re not talking about getting a random roommate.

Co-living with roommates is having its moment in New York City. Described as similar to “adult dorms,” co-living allows you to have your private bedroom while sharing more communal elements like kitchens and living rooms with other New Yorkers.

Companies like Ollie and Common popped up to allow New Yorkers to have flexible leases and make friends along the way while they take care of the hassle.

Most importantly, these co-living communities come with community engagement and built-in experiences – the ultimate new amenity. Ollie invites residents to everything from rooftop socializing events to day trips skiing. The company also organizes volunteer opportunities for residents and vacations for the group.

Do people want this?

It seems so. The new amenity is the experience – specifically, the no-hassle experience. A large group of New Yorkers is enamored by the idea of having less “stuff” and more unique opportunities to try something cool. New York is a great city that can feel very lonely, and these built-in activities are a great way to build community while exploring the city instantly. A shared kitchen often translates to shared dinners, and shared meals translate to new friends.

What if you want some incredible experiences but still want your apartment?

Well, developers are paying attention to these people as well! Many buildings are now showcasing amenities that give people the option to build communities. A trendy choice is the community garden, which allows residents to feel like they aren’t in New York and have an opportunity to grow their food. Staten Island’s significant development includes a 4,500-square-foot garden and a guide to help you grow your produce.

At 225 East 39^th Street in Murray Hill, the building showcases a bocce ball court and a shuffleboard court. These simple amenities allow residents to interact in a no-pressure situation and encourage residents to befriend each other. Hence, they have someone to engage in these activities.

A connection is critical.

Many buildings also offer events for residents, like movie viewings or Superbowl parties. Therefore, shared lounges or working spaces are a must. Mima in Hell’s Kitchen provides a building basketball league, summer movie events, and dog “yappy” hours for residents who own dogs to get to know one another. People living in small apartments need a scenery change once in a while, and the lounge offers the perfect opportunity to leave your apartment technically.

Anything that helps people connect, whether it be yoga class or book club, is what the new wave of renters and homeowners is looking for. It’s no longer about your private wine fridge but meeting your neighbors over a carefully curated wine tasting.