Other CRE Sectors Caught Up in the Amenity Wars

Mitchell Schear

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NEW YORK—The term “amenities wars” might be most closely associated with the apartment sector, but Mitchell Schear, Executive Partner at Camber Creek, tells GlobeSt.com it is spreading to other segments of commercial real estate.

“The trends in the commercial office space are similar to the multifamily space,” says Schear, the former President of Vornado/Charles E. Smith. “Commercial buildings are launching tenant engagement apps and offering pop-up massage sessions, car cleaning services, food trucks, nap rooms and treadmill desks. Of course, co-working spaces are famous for offering free beer and cold brew coffee on tap, entertainment centers and even in-house chefs.”

Schear said the amenities wars began with enhanced gyms, pools, bike storage and repair units and pet spas in apartments. “Now we are seeing movie theaters, cooking classes, personal shoppers, child-care services, digital driving ranges, climbing walls and even ‘community’ gardens with outsourced gardeners and home vegetable delivery—rooftop to table,” he says. “One building in New York City offers residents private wine tastings, advice on collecting and a full-time sommelier on speed-dial.”