As a residential construction manager, I have witnessed the evolution of the construction industry shift in preferences from skyscrapers to mid-rise buildings. This change has numerous reasons, but it essentially boils down to one thing, PROFIT. Developers are salivating over the return on money these new modern mid-rise buildings can produce.
In this article, I will delve into the 5 reasons why mid-rise buildings are gaining popularity and provide three reasons why skyscrapers are falling out of favor. I will also offer my perspective on these new types of buildings and why they are so profitable!
1. Affordability
Mid-rise buildings are significantly more affordable compared to their high-rise counterparts. They require less expensive materials, and construction costs are comparatively lower. They are also much faster to build, generating revenue for the owners much sooner than in high-rise buildings.
Developers such as AvalonBay Communities and Greystar Real Estate Partners have been actively building mid-rise residential properties due to their cost-effectiveness and higher demand among potential tenants.
2. Wood Construction
New regulations have allowed for the use of wood in mid-rise buildings, making them the new go-to material for modern mid-rise developments. Timber-based mid-rise structures are much easier and faster to build than steel or concrete construction.
Wood has gained so much popularity that developers like Lendlease and Katerra, are committed to only creating sustainable and eco-friendly residential properties using timber construction from now on! General contractors are also catching onto the ideal that they can make more money by quickly building 2-3 mid-rise wood structure construction in the time it takes to build 1 high-rise. Check out this post about Gilbane and why they are one of the best GC's in America.
3. Sustainability
Mid-rise buildings tend to be more environmentally friendly than skyscrapers. They require fewer resources for construction and maintenance, and their lower height allows for better natural ventilation and sunlight penetration. Additionally, since wood is the new go-to material for mid-rise buildings, they have a lower environmental impact than traditional construction materials like steel or concrete. This makes them more energy-efficient, reducing the overall carbon footprint of the building.
4. Community-centric Design
Mid-rise buildings foster a sense of community among residents, as their smaller scale promotes social interaction and neighborhood engagement. The smaller scale eliminates the need for long elevator rides or navigating multiple floors, making daily life more convenient and comfortable for occupants.
They are also more accessible to residents, particularly seniors and those with mobility issues. This can be seen in the developments by Related Companies and Alliance Residential, which often feature communal spaces and amenities that encourage residents to connect with one another.
5. Flexibility in Design
Mid-rise buildings offer greater design flexibility and can easily blend into various urban and suburban environments. Architects and designers can create unique and visually appealing structures without being constrained by the limitations of skyscraper construction. This is evident in the innovative designs of mid-rise buildings by Toll Brothers Apartment Living and The Bozzuto Group.
While mid-rise buildings are rising, skyscrapers are facing a drastic decline in popularity. Here are the main reasons why:
1. Urban Congestion
Skyscrapers contribute to urban congestion and overcrowding, exacerbating traffic, pollution, and limited public spaces. Living in a skyscraper can also have adverse psychological effects on residents, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection from the surrounding community. This is due to the sheer size of these buildings, making it difficult for residents to engage with their neighbors and develop a sense of belonging.
Mid-rise buildings, on the other hand, foster a more intimate and community-oriented living experience. As cities become more densely populated, there is a growing need for residential developments that are more considerate of their surroundings and promote a higher quality of life.
3. Changing World Views
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how people see work, making remote work more commonplace. As a result, the demand for office space in high-rise buildings has decreased, leading to an oversupply of commercial skyscrapers and a decline in their overall appeal. Skyscrapers also consume substantial energy for heating, cooling, and lighting. As a result, they have a larger carbon footprint than mid-rise buildings.
With growing concerns about climate change and an increased focus on sustainable development, skyscrapers are becoming less desirable from an environmental perspective.
3. High Construction and Maintenance Costs
Skyscrapers are expensive to build and maintain, with construction costs soaring due to the complexity of their design and the need for specialized materials and labor. Additionally, the ongoing maintenance and operational expenses of skyscrapers can be excessive. Just think of the window cleaner alone and the feat that needs to be done in order to maintain them.
The residential construction industry is experiencing a preference shift, with mid-rise buildings becoming increasingly popular for their affordability, sustainability, and community-centric design. Developers and general contractors across America, including AvalonBay Communities, Greystar Real Estate Partners, Lendlease, and Katerra, recognize the advantages of mid-rise construction and are actively building these properties.
On the other hand, skyscrapers are declining in popularity due to high construction and maintenance costs, urban congestion, changing work habits, energy efficiency concerns, and the psychological impact on residents. As our society continues to evolve, it is clear that the demand for more sustainable, accessible, and community-oriented residential options will drive the construction industry toward mid-rise developments.
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