Right-Sized Apartments Open the Door to Family Living

Many regional apartment communities have traditionally catered to singles and couples drawn to the Eastside’s strong job market and urban convenience. Sleek finishes, fitness centers, and proximity to major employers have long defined this rental market. 

But as demographics change and singles or couples anticipate having a family, new living needs become evident. Life changes quickly once a child arrives – and a one-bedroom that works for two people is no longer ideal.

As families determine what their next living situation will be, apartment living is now more feasible than ever. “Families can benefit from the flexibility of apartment living without sacrificing space, comfort or convenience, especially at a time when larger rental homes can be difficult to find,” says Matt Elley, SVP of development at AMLI. “Rather than asking residents to pick between urban convenience and family functionality, AMLI Redmond Way offers both.”

Choosing an apartment community with larger units and a place for children to run and play is a smart move for many families. Functional kitchens and ample storage are often on parents’ check lists, too. Larger apartment spaces, such as the 1,100-plus square foot apartment homes at AMLI Redmond Way, allow room for nurseries, laundry rooms and the everyday rhythms of family life.

Location, location, location

Apartment living can also offer the opportunity for families to live in desirable areas at a manageable price point that can be half the cost of buying a home. Redmond is a sought after location for its top-rated schools and access to the Northwest’s natural environment. For couples planning ahead or already welcoming a child, this right-sized apartment living also offers something increasingly valuable: stability. Families can remain in the community they love and know without immediately needing to purchase a home or search for a larger rental elsewhere. 

AMLI Redmond Way is situated within walking distance of Anderson Park, the Downtown Redmond light-rail, and nearby shops and services. Bike trails adjacent to the property make outdoor recreation and commuting convenient. Families with school-aged children may also appreciate access to Redmond Elementary School, which is frequently rated as a top performer in the state, compared to other schools.

The social side of family living

While apartment living may be a smart financial choice and allow families to remain in a desired location, it can provide another valuable resource as well: community.

Residents have numerous, natural opportunities to meet neighbors in similar stages of life living here. Parents can connect in the evenings, build friendships, share advice, and even coordinate babysitting or childcare.

Apartment communities where children have room to play and explore, and parents have access to coworking areas that allow them to be productive and close to their children are seen as increasingly necessary features for households managing hybrid or flexible work schedules.

Look for apartment communities where children have room to play and explore, along with coworking areas that allow caregivers to stay productive while remaining close to their children — an increasingly necessary feature for households managing hybrid or flexible work schedules.

“Free Play at AMLI Redmond Way is an interactive playroom designed for imagination and activity,” says Elley. “Any parent knows that a play space, especially during our Northwest winters, is a must for families. Additionally, we offer the Overlook Club with areas for both socializing and remote work, plus dedicated coworking areas with focus rooms, conference rooms, lounge seating and standing desks.”

The complex’s design goes beyond apartments — it helps create a neighborhood within the building itself. “This building has several amenities that function as a modern ‘third place,’” says Elley, a welcoming environment outside of home and work where relationships can grow. The courtyard, rooftop deck, shared play spaces and common areas all create opportunities for spontaneous connection that are often missing in more isolated housing environments.

Amenities designed for real family life

Amenities are key for families. Apartment communities can be game changer when they are built around what makes families tick and how they can thrive.

“AMLI Redmond Way’s apartment features respond to how families actually live. Each home includes in-unit laundry, and many have mudroom-style entry spaces where shoes, backpacks and coats are kept,” says Elley. “Options like stroller and bike storage help reduce clutter and provide flexibility for families to manage clutter. It’s these types of details that make apartment living not only doable, but desirable.”

Many families have four-legged members, too, so choosing a community that is also pet-friendly is imperative. Pet-owning families will appreciate the pet spa and two dog parks at AMLI Redmond Way, making it easier to care for furry family members. 

Apartment living is not just being inside four walls. Being outside in an enriching environment is a huge amenity.

“One of the most distinctive features parents will love is the central outdoor courtyard, designed as the heart of the property. Ground-floor residences open directly to this space, while upper-level homes overlook the enclosed area. This makes a great place for children to play that is visible and accessible to nearby parents.” says Elley.

Rooftop decks can add another outdoor gathering space where families can relax, play and enjoy fresh air together. For many families, these benefits can be just as meaningful as square footage.

Benefits of apartment living

When families look at the benefit of apartment living, there are many things that make it desirable. Not only is it a smart financial choice, it also helps children learn boundaries, communication and respect, while cutting down on cleaning and maintenance. It’s also a great way to create a neighborhood of friends and supporters. 

• Lower monthly costs with reduced rent, utilities, furniture and décor expenses.
• More money for priorities like travel, savings, college funds or a future down payment.
• Easier to maintain with faster cleaning and less time spent on upkeep.
• Less household stress because apartment spaces are often simpler to manage.
• Encourages mindful living by keeping what you use and avoiding excess clutter.
• Smarter buying habits with more thoughtful purchasing decisions.
• Stronger family connection through more shared time and everyday interaction.
• Better communication when family members are naturally more connected.
• Less isolation for kids than in homes where everyone disappears into separate rooms.
• Teaches boundaries and respect by learning to share space well.
• Lighter environmental footprint through lower energy use and reduced consumption.

Apartment-living tips for families

Apartment living is a viable choice for families. Here are some simple tips that make day-to-day living in a shared space easier: 

• Create multi-use rooms so each space serves two purposes, like dining plus homework, or play plus work.
• Think vertically with bunk beds, shelving, tall cabinets and wall-mounted storage.
• Use hidden storage such as under-bed bins, stackable containers and closet organizers.
• Define play zones to keep toys contained and cleanup simple.
• Reduce noise with rugs, curtains and soft wall décor that absorb sound.
• Set quiet hours and use white noise machines to support sleep routines.
• Simplify clothing with fewer items, capsule wardrobes and regular laundry routines.
• Plan kitchen space wisely with meal planning and stackable food containers.
• Create a family command center with calendars, chore charts and paper organizers.
• Keep clutter low to create a calmer, more functional home.
• Give everyone personal space — even a small corner can feel meaningful.
• Use community spaces and get outside whenever possible for room to move around.

As the cost of housing in Greater Seattle continues to rise so for many families, apartment living is no longer just a short-term stop. It can be a practical, flexible and rewarding long-term choice — especially when the community is designed with families in mind. 

Editor’s note: This article was sponsored by AMLI Redmond Way.