Micro Apartments.
Maximizing rental property returns and value through custom furnished, reconfigurable micro-apartments for young urban dwellers.
Client: Korman Residential Properties
Industry: Real Estate
Services: Product & Service Design, Sourcing and Manufacturing
Design Brief.
Korman Residential Properties (KP) was looking to maximize returns on a newly acquired high-rise building comprised of several suite layouts, including very limiting studio spaces. Together with Korman’s team, FutureTogether reimagined the studios as furnished micro-apartments.
Outcome.
The newly conceived micros—furnished with multifunctional, durable, and cost-effective wares—enabled KP to increase their rents and margins while simultaneously addressing the needs of potential renters like the reliable graduate student market of neighboring University of Pennsylvania.
Social Impact.
The furniture and accessories used to outfit the micro apartments were locally manufactured and support our network of responsible manufacturers. We delivered results for a family-owned real estate operation known for its social impact initiatives in the greater Philadelphia area.
Environmental Impact.
We always approach environmental impact holistically: The materials and finishes used to make the furniture were FSC-certified and low VOC. Manufacturing took place within a 100-mile radius to limit logistical impacts and support the local economy. All processes were vetted by our design team to optimize materials and reduce waste. And a working relationship was established with KP to be able to maintain and repair the furniture.
Fewer Better Things.
The limited square footage inspired our team to make the furnishings work harder, building in flexibility while maintaining reduced physical and environmental footprints.
The suite of products included:
· A hybrid dining worktable, with locking casters and a sturdy metal frame to ensure all kinds of social activities can take place on it.
· A hybrid TV console that has a deeper top so it can double as a desk.
· A coffee table that has built in storage and hidden casters allowing residents to slide it underneath the console for storage.
· A bed board that has floating nightstands with storage and built in LED lighting and electrical outlets.
In addition to these custom furnishings, we supplied other furnishings like lighting, acoustic panels, and shelving from our sister company MIO to create a warm and practical living space. Our teams installed the furnishings and provided the logistics and support to transform units as they became available.
A Manufacturing Feat.
All the custom furniture was made with local vendors to ensure reduced environmental and logistical impact. Each piece was made with environmentally preferable and domestically sourced materials and finishes—and each component was designed around the operational goals of the Korman leasing and maintenance teams.
Links & Press.