Multifamily Design Trends To Watch In 2019

Architects are always looking for ways to make multifamily construction more efficient and less expensive. Here are some trends likely to take center stage in 2019:

The growth in co-housing is putting increased emphasis on sound mitigation– The number of co-housing communities in the U.S. will roughly double in the next five years. Find yourself wondering, “What is co-housing?” It’s where residents share common spaces like kitchens and laundries, but also want their private havens to be quiet. Look for more architects to specify wall assemblies that offer higher Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings. The UL-listed U350 interior wall assembly featuring LP^® FlameBlock^® sheathing meets this sound-reduction objective – and is easier to install than an area separation wall using shaft liner.

Modular construction will increase to help lower installation costs – Many sections of a typical apartment are now built off-site, then transported to the jobsite. This speeds the installation process and reduces material waste. In addition to kitchens and bathrooms, external wall assemblies and even stairwells are now being built this way. This mode of construction – pioneered in hotel builds – will accelerate next year in multifamily projects.

Building solutions that offer greater resilience – Architects and specifiers know that what used to be a “storm of the century” is now a frequent event. They’re eager to learn more about products like LP^® SmartSide^® Trim & Siding, which can withstand gale-force wind. In earthquake-prone areas, they’re looking for products like LP^® FlameBlock^® Fire-Rated OSB structural-1 rated sheathing panels that have superior shear strength.