That being said, the survey, conducted for NMHC by Beck Research, also found that consumers don't have a clear definition of what “innovative” looks like when it comes to apartments. “Americans have difficulty describing the apartment of the future and describing a space beyond the status quo,” according to the survey. “Instead, Americans advocate for improvements to current services and amenities.” Convenience was a must for 92% of the 1,000 adults polled by Beck, while 78% said they valued having a convertible space that could transform to meet different needs.

“In the here and now, the multifamily industry largely knows what their customers want—and that connective technology is increasingly important,” says the trend report. It notes that NMHC recently published the results of the largest-ever survey of apartment renters ever, and found that the 272,000-plus survey respondents ranked amenities and features such as parking, pools and fitness centers, along with in-unit washers and dryers and dishwashers, as secondary to reliable cell reception and hi-speed Internet. Connectivity as well as creature comforts are standard fare for the current generation of class A properties.

“However, anticipating our residents' needs for tomorrow is more challenging,” the report states. There's no doubt that technology will continue to be a big determinant in the future value of apartment living.”

With that in mind, NMHC worked with KTGY Architecture + Planning to develop eight videos that showcase futuristic living spaces, including both private living areas and shared amenity spaces. Among the features these apartments of the future offer are moveable walls, interactive fitness and wellness amenities and 3D printers. Videos and renderings, as well as the full Disruption report, can be viewed by clicking here.