Elevating community clubhouses: design ideas that connect residents

In residential developments, shared amenities like clubhouses are more than just a nice-to-have - they’re a powerful tool for building community. Done right, they encourage residents to connect, socialise and enjoy the lifestyle your development promises.

At Elevate Creative & Design, we help developers and building managers across WA create amenity fit-outs that feel like a natural extension of home. If you’re designing or upgrading a clubhouse, here are a few ways to make it more welcoming, more functional, and more likely to be used.

Design for real use

Before choosing finishes or styling pieces, think about how residents will actually use the space. Will it host events? Be a quiet place to read or work? Accommodate families, older residents, or everyone in between? Clear purpose = better design decisions.

Create zones, not just open space

Large open-plan clubhouses can feel aimless without structure. Use furniture, layout and lighting to create defined zones - like a coffee corner, a reading nook, or a flexible group area. This encourages different types of use, without needing permanent walls.

Style it with warmth and personality

If it feels like a hotel lobby, it’s probably not right. Residents should feel at ease the moment they walk in. We use soft textures, layered lighting, greenery, and local artwork to add warmth, character and a sense of belonging.

Choose practical, durable finishes

Shared spaces see a lot of traffic - so furniture and surfaces need to be robust. Think wipeable fabrics, solid tables, non-slip floors and finishes that still look great after years of use. That way, your clubhouse stays inviting long after opening day.

Think beyond aesthetics

The best community spaces feel considered. That means power points in the right places, thoughtful lighting, acoustic treatments to reduce noise, and furniture that’s easy to move. These little details have a big impact on user experience.

Keep it flexible

A truly useful clubhouse can adapt. We love designing spaces that can shift from weekday quiet zones to weekend event venues with minimal effort. Flexible furniture, clever storage and multi-use layouts make it all possible.

A beautifully styled clubhouse doesn’t just add value - it builds community. If you want to create a space where residents can connect, recharge and feel proud to call home, we’d love to help.