Evolution of Corporate Housing
Corporate housing has evolved significantly over the past few years. Once a solution primarily aimed at business travelers, it has transformed into a broader concept that caters to remote and hybrid workers, and those seeking long-term, flexible living arrangements. As work culture changes, so does the way companies approach temporary accommodations for their workforce.
How Has Remote and Hybrid Work Impacted Corporate Housing?
The Need for High-End Amenities: Personal and Business Needs
Today’s employees often need more than a place to stay—accommodations supporting work and leisure. High-speed internet, reliable business centers, lounges, swimming pools, and co-working spaces have become essential amenities for remote workers. Corporate housing providers now offer spaces catering to employees’ needs who require a professional environment to stay productive while also offering relaxation areas for downtime.
The Need for Adaptable Housing Solutions
The rise of remote and hybrid work models has also brought about the need for adaptable housing solutions. As workers divide their time between the office, remote locations, and sometimes multiple cities, the need for flexibility in housing arrangements has grown. This includes flexible leasing options, varied lengths of stay, and customizable services catering to an employee’s needs. From the ability to adjust furniture layouts to having access to extra services like housekeeping, parking, and dry cleaning, employee housing must now cater to a wide range of preferences.
The Need for a Home-Like Environment
Many employees now spend most of their workday in their furnished apartment, requiring an environment that fosters comfort and productivity. Business accommodations must provide more than just a bed and a desk—they need to create an atmosphere that feels welcoming, comforting, and conducive to long-term stays.
How Has Sustainability Influenced Business Housing?
The Importance of LEED Certifications
In response to the growing demand for eco-conscious living, many properties focus on obtaining LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certifications. These certifications ensure the buildings are designed and maintained with environmentally responsible practices. As companies strive to meet sustainability goals and employees increasingly seek eco-friendly options, LEED certification has become a benchmark for corporate housing providers offering greener living spaces.
Eco-Friendly Furniture and Fixtures
In addition to LEED certification, another way sustainability is incorporated into corporate housing is by selecting eco-friendly furniture and fixtures. These include furniture made from sustainable materials, low-VOC paints, and energy-efficient lighting. By choosing environmentally responsible products, corporate housing providers can minimize their ecological footprint while providing a comfortable living experience for their guests.
Recycling Programs and Community Contributions
Recycling programs have become an essential part of sustainability efforts in corporate housing. For example, we’ve implemented a recycling program at Manilow Suites that encourages guests to separate aluminum cans in designated bags. Our housekeeping team then collects these bags and donates the recyclable materials to the A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter for recycling. This initiative reduces waste and supports a local charity, demonstrating our commitment to environmental and social responsibility. This kind of community-based recycling effort helps reduce the overall carbon footprint of corporate housing properties while encouraging residents to participate in sustainable practices.
Incorporating Eco-Friendly Solutions for Guests
Sustainability also extends to the guest experience. At Manilow Suites, we offer reusable water bottles and tote bags to encourage environmentally friendly behavior among our guests. These items are designed to help reduce single-use plastics and promote sustainable living practices during their stay. Providing guests with tools to minimize waste supports sustainability efforts and empowers them to make environmentally conscious choices.
Conclusion: The Future of Corporate Housing
The evolution of corporate housing is closely tied to the changes in how we work and think about the environment. The rise of remote and hybrid work models has created a greater need for flexible, well-equipped, and comfortable living spaces. Meanwhile, the growing emphasis on sustainability has pushed corporate housing providers to adopt greener practices, such as LEED certifications, eco-friendly furniture, and recycling initiatives. As remote work grows and sustainability becomes an even greater priority, corporate housing will continue to evolve. By embracing flexibility, comfort, and sustainability, corporate housing providers can meet the changing needs of today’s workforce while contributing to a more sustainable and responsible future.