10 building amenities you should consider

What are building amenities?

Building amenities are shared features or services within a condominium, co-op, or multi-unit building that go beyond individual units. In Maryland, building amenities might include gyms, rooftop terraces, package rooms, or smart access systems. These extras raise resident satisfaction and help properties stand out in competitive markets.

This article is not intended to and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Board members and owners should consult their attorney to discuss the legal implications of their decisions or actions prior to proceeding.
 

The importance of updating and adding amenities

Updating or adding building amenities helps maintain property value and attract long-term residents. In Maryland’s evolving rental and condo markets, amenities signal that a building is current and responsive to resident needs. Buildings that neglect amenities may struggle with turnover, while those that invest strategically often see stronger occupancy and broader appeal. By evaluating costs, resident preferences, and long-term maintenance, boards can choose building amenities that deliver real returns.
 

10 popular amenities to consider

1. Fitness center

   A fitness center is a classic building amenity that residents expect. Offering equipment like cardio machines, weights, and strength gear gives residents an easy workout option without leaving home and strengthens retention for buildings competing on lifestyle.
    

2. Rooftop deck, terraces, or courtyards

   Outdoor common spaces like rooftop decks or courtyard gardens are among the most requested building amenities in Maryland. These areas offer relaxation, social space, and scenic views, especially valuable in urban or densely developed zones.
    

3. Package room and handling services

   With deliveries growing year over year, a location to accept packages, with a secure package room or lockers are building amenities that reduce theft risk and resident frustration. A centralized, lockable package area gives residents confidence that deliveries are safe even when they’re away.
    

4. Smart access

   Modern access systems like smart fobs, app-based door control, and video intercoms are becoming essential building amenities. They provide convenience and security, giving residents easy access while limiting unauthorized entry.
    

5. Co-working spaces

   With remote or hybrid work common, co-working spaces are among the building amenities that resonate deeply. A dedicated lounge or shared work room gives owners or tenants a place to focus without needing a separate office.
    

6. Pet amenities

   Pet-friendly amenities, such as dog run areas, grooming stations, or pet wash rooms, are strong differentiators among building amenities. Many Maryland residents own pets and prefer buildings that accommodate their four-legged companions.
    

7. EV charging

   Electric vehicle charging stations are rising on the list of desirable building amenities. As EV ownership grows in Maryland, adding charging points positions a building to compete in modern markets and appeal to eco-minded residents.
    

8. Amenity-level landscaping and outdoor lighting

   Well-designed landscaping, walking paths, and lighting help transform outdoor spaces into usable amenities. These attention-to-detail features may not always be front-of-mind, but they dramatically improve the experience of courtyard, walkway, and parking areas.
    

9. Concierge

   Concierge services such as handling visitor check-ins, or coordinating deliveries are high-end building amenities. When available, they elevate resident experience and relieve boards or property staff from handling many logistical tasks.
    

10. Multipurpose community rooms

    A shared multipurpose room or clubhouse is one of the more versatile building amenities. It can host resident gatherings, meetings, events, or quiet study sessions, making it a social and operational asset for a building.

Upgrading existing amenities 

You don’t always need to build something new to make your community feel new. Refreshing or upgrading existing amenities can deliver the same “wow” factor as adding new ones while containing costs. Modern finishes, smart technology, and creative use of space can breathe new life into common areas that residents already love. Sometimes, all it takes is a design update, better lighting, or a few well-planned additions to turn an overlooked space into a sought-after feature.

Does your building have a fitness room? Some buildings are updating these spaces with smart tech or creating designated spaces for Pilates, yoga, and tai chi. If you have a locker room, take a look at it. Can it be made more luxurious with some simple interior décor updates, maybe a higher-end countertop, better lighting, or upgraded showerheads?

If you have a spa, look at incorporating trendy features like aromatherapy options.

Pools and fitness centers can be found in almost every new building these days. How they are interpreted can vary from building to building, however. New buildings are making these spaces larger and more high-tech, while older buildings are expanding these fitness centers to include designated space for activities like Pilates and yoga.

Updating your fitness center does not have to break the bank. Convert unused space into a studio for Pilates and yoga by removing furniture from the room, painting the space in a soothing color and installing proper lighting. Contract with a local massage therapist to provide onsite services a few times a week and use the same space for that! Instantly, you have in-demand amenities without a big investment. Add dispensers of plain and infused water to add a welcoming touch without spending a lot. (It’s also more environmentally conscious than giving out bottled water!)

Another easy upgrade to consider is adding a juice bar to your pool deck. This can be as simple as adding a counter-style table that is staffed a few hours a day or it can be more elaborate and include a built-in bar. You can also start a towel service, complete with monogrammed towels and stock a glass-fronted fridge with cool hand towels, snacks, and beverages for residents to enjoy while at the pool. Both are easy to implement and easier on the budget than a lot of options.
 

Understand what your residents and buyers want

"Determining what building amenities will attract and retain residents starts with understanding your residents and buyers. If you don’t know what that is, survey your residents. Talk to local realtors — no one knows better than realtors what buyers are looking for. Then start planning."

Trent Harrison, president, FirstService Residential

If your building attracts a lot of dog lovers, you may want to think about adding a pet spa. This can be as simple as adding a washing station to clean off puppy paws after a walk. If you want to go the extra mile, add a full grooming salon and offer dog-walking services for a fee. Again, you can bring in an outside contractor who will happily pay for the privilege of accessing a new market, offsetting your expenses over time.

Many millennials have made it clear that they don’t want to leave the convenience of a new building just because they have a family. Cater to that! Convert an unused room into a playroom for children, complete with comfy couches, toys and gaming systems. If you have a lot of sports enthusiasts in the building, turn your parking garage roof into a sports area that offers basketball, soccer or volleyball.
 

Bring in the experts

Another great way to offer exceptional service without spending a lot of money is to make life easier through vendor relationships. You can easily convert unused space into a valet station for packages. Simply lease the space to a vendor and that business will serve as package valet for residents, delivering packages to resident units or holding them for pickup.

Some buildings are able to take it even further by offering retail stores on the lower floor(s). From grocery stores to dry cleaners, and restaurants to bank branches, residents can enjoy the convenience of picking up their dinner and dry cleaning on the way up to their unit.
 

How FirstService Residential can help

FirstService Residential helps boards and owners across Maryland plan smart improvements that elevate resident experience while protecting the budget. With more than 25 years of local expertise, our property managers guide communities across Baltimore, Annapolis, and the Capital Region through every step, from vendor coordination and budgeting to project oversight. We focus on upgrades that add real value, attract residents, and keep your property competitive.

If your board is exploring amenity enhancements or long-term improvements, contact FirstService Residential today to learn how our Maryland team can help your community achieve its goals efficiently and confidently.