While there is no exact accounting on the number of gated communities within Greater Vancouver BC, there are multiple locations in the region that are designated residential areas with restricted access. Suburban areas such as Point Grey, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Tsawwassen have them and/or are slated for new developments. The benefits of gated communities include enhanced security, increased privacy, and a strong sense of solidarity among homeowners, all of which generally lead to higher property values. Then of course, there are the exclusive amenities which are located within or adjacent to gated community clubhouses. It’s the latter that we’re focusing on today.

As a property management service or developer charged with creating more enjoyable common areas, you are considering an interior design upgrade (existing property) or integration (new development) for the clubhouse of your gated community. Below is an overview of the top things to consider prior to booking a consultation with an interior design firm.

What to Consider When Planning an Interior Design Upgrade to the Clubhouse of Your Gated Community

Cohesion for common areas

Gated community clubhouses typically feature fitness centers, pools, dining rooms, and event spaces. They may also feature game rooms, meeting facilities, and spaces for social interaction. While homes in gated communities do not always look identical (nor are they required to) they do have regulations regarding exterior appearance to maintain a cohesive aesthetic. This cohesive aesthetic should be evident in all aforementioned spaces within or adjacent to clubhouses. Ensure that your prospective interior designer has access to installations, furnishings, and materials that protect existing cohesion and enhance it where required.

Designing for Gated Community Trends

There are three trends being embedded within gated communities that clubhouse interior design must account for, because these trends will most certainly become mainstays. These include the following:

Eco-luxury living: This trend combines luxurious experiences and practices with a focus on environmental sustainability and ethical considerations. Select an interior designer with experience in such upgrades, and one that has access to textiles and materials that answer the call for environmental sustainability and ethical manufacturing of said textiles and materials.
Smart technology: For the intent and purpose of today’s topic, smart technology involves the integration of smart devices and AI / machine learning systems into a gated community clubhouse’s design to enhance functionality, convenience, and user experience. All of this must also be accomplished while optimizing for the greatest possible energy efficiency. Select an interior designer with experience in such installations, namely via mechanized window coverings and adaptive lighting systems.
Wellness amenities: The third trend in gated community interior design involves the introduction (or enhancement) of wellness amenities. While selection of these amenities is at the discretion of the homeowners association / property management, an interior designer should be brought in during the planning process in order to enhance the amenities. This will be accomplished by prioritizing natural elements, being more mindful of material selection, and being more thoughtful during space planning. A designer will likely recommend more natural light, greenery, and calming colors to create a serene and restorative environment. Ergonomic furnishings and acoustic design will further promote comfort and subsequently reduce feelings of anxiety and stress by all who venture into the clubhouse environment.

Calvert Design provides for all of the details above, as we’re not just interior designers, we’re international interior architects (learn more here). As a result, we are more qualified than other Vancouver firms to take on all aspects of gated community clubhouse interior design. If your gated community is in the Greater Vancouver BC area, be sure to schedule an appointment with Calvert Design Studio to discuss the interior design of your clubhouses and common areas. Call us today for a FREE 20-minute phone consultation to get started.