Our Blog.
May 22, 2026
Tips for building a sense of community within a purpose-built rental building
Design common spaces in multifamily rental buildings with connection in mind
They say home is where the heart is, especially when you reside in a purpose-built rental building that features a cohesive community.
In recent years, there have been countless think pieces on growing social isolation and the loneliness epidemic, and we propose that property managers have an important role to play in providing a cure.
Taking steps to build community within a multifamily rental building can drive resident satisfaction while providing a sense of connection, belonging and safety. That translates directly into tenant retention and long-term asset performance.
There are many ways to foster a strong sense of community within among a rental buildings’ residents.
Designing connection into common spaces and amenities
Purpose-built rentals come with a network of communal spaces and amenities like lounges, fitness centres, co-working areas, and outdoor terraces, that create natural opportunities for interaction.
Researchers out of Simon Fraser University suggest six design principles for fostering social cohesion and wellbeing within a multifamily context:
- Location: No one wants to hang out in a dark and dingy room that’s difficult to find. Host social features in clean, convenient and prominent locations with natural or inviting light.
- Invitation: Design places for residents to pause and have spontaneous interactions with neighbours, whether it’s a lounge or a mail room.
- Activation: Activating spaces is where community starts to take shape. Interesting, functional amenities – like gyms, games rooms or co-working areas – that come with intentional things to see and do turn elements of the built environment into icebreakers. Over time, these areas can organically grow into regular meeting points.
- Inclusion: A thoughtful approach to community-building considers diversity, to facilitate a shared environment where residents feel comfortable participating. Common spaces should be inviting, accessible and safe for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.
- Transition: Give residents a sense of control over their privacy and exposure to the public realm by balancing private units with common spaces that provide varying opportunities for interaction.
- Evolution: Where appropriate, allow spaces to evolve with residents over time to meet changing community needs and nurture a sense of belonging.
By following these principles, property management can use the built environment to create connection, familiarity and even friendship among residents, for a rental experience that feels genuinely welcoming.
Engage with effective tenant communication
Residents want to stay abreast of what’s happening in their building, from upcoming events to maintenance updates.
Clear communication is an essential part of fostering community through property management. Email, resident portals, and in-building signage are all appropriate channels, as long as they consistently keep residents informed.
Effective communication requires a back and forth, meaning residents also need to feel they are being heard. Providing opportunities for feedback through surveys or direct communication helps property managers understand resident needs and expectations.
Acknowledging and acting on feedback reinforces the relationship between residents and management, ultimately supporting a more connected community.
Make room for organic community building within purpose-built rentals
Building community within a purpose-built rental happens in everyday moments.
It shows ups in the ways residents use shared spaces, how well communication flows, and how naturally neighbours can connect.
Property managers know it’s working when residents start creating their own reasons to gather. That’s when a building’s community becomes part of its identity, and people don’t just happen to live there – they actively choose to stay.
