In response to shifting lifestyles and evolving needs, real estate developers and hospitality professionals are increasingly investing in mid-term rental projects. These hybrid spaces, blending hotel amenities wiht residential living, are becoming a staple in urban centers across France.
One notable example is the recently launched Bikube project in Lyon,developed by Vinci Immobilier,located just a stone’s throw from the bustling Part-Dieu train station. Emilie Schlageter, the project director, shared insights about the initiative, which has been in development for five years.
Bikube offers a total of 146 apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units, with 55 designated for long-term stays of one to eight months. According to Schlageter, these long-term accommodations are fully booked, with rates starting at €120 per night or €940 per month, providing a service level comparable to a four-star hotel.
Schlageter highlights a significant gap in the market for such offerings, noting the challenges of urban housing, the rising demand for services, and the need to combat social isolation.
Creating Community Spaces
Along with private living spaces, Bikube features communal areas designed for social interaction and collaboration, including a well-appointed kitchen and lounge. A bar-restaurant that opens to the street is also part of the concept, aimed at fostering a vibrant atmosphere for both residents and passersby.”It’s essential to animate the space for residents and the community alike,” Schlageter explains, adding that “Bikube” translates to “hive” in Danish.
The clientele primarily consists of international interns and researchers who appreciate the ease of securing housing without the burden of extensive administrative processes, as well as professionals on temporary assignments.
Vinci Immobilier plans to expand the bikube brand, with another location set to open in Montpellier this summer and a third in Suresnes, a suburb of Paris, anticipated for 2026. Competing developer Bouygues Immobilier is also entering the market with its Nomo brand, which will feature 141 apartments in Bordeaux, slated to open in early 2025, followed by another project in Saint-Ouen in 2026.
“A concept at the intersection of serviced apartments and customary rental housing,” the group boasts, catering to stays ranging from “three days to nine months.”
Major hotel chains are also adapting to this trend. Singapore-based Ascott, known for its citadines serviced apartments, is launching a similar concept called Lyf. Following openings in Vienna and Frankfurt, the next Lyf location is set for Paris in April 2025, with additional projects underway in the UK.
Catering to Digital Nomads
The focus on “digital nomads”—individuals who work remotely while traveling—has become a key target demographic for these new developments. As the demand for flexible living arrangements continues to rise, the hybrid model of accommodation is poised to reshape urban living and hospitality.
As the hospitality industry evolves, the concept of hybrid accommodations is gaining traction, especially in urban settings. Vincent Compagnon, the president of Appart’City, a prominent chain with around 100 establishments across France, Belgium, and Switzerland, emphasizes the growing appeal of the “appart’hôtel” model. This innovative lodging option combines the flexibility of short-term rentals, akin to Airbnb, with the high service standards typically associated with hotels.
During a recent roundtable discussion on urban accommodation trends, Compagnon highlighted that while the concept of appart’hôtels is not new, it has never been more relevant.The modern traveler seeks a blend of comfort, convenience, and community, which these hybrid spaces provide. They cater to diverse clientele, from business travelers to families, by offering amenities that enhance the guest experience.
Philippe Mettey, vice president of sales and marketing for Ascott in Europe, echoed this sentiment, noting a strong interest in their Citadines residences. The group aims to expand its portfolio from ten to 150 locations worldwide by 2030, driven by a renovation program that enhances communal areas and accommodates various lengths of stay.
This shift towards hybrid accommodations reflects broader changes in consumer preferences, where the demand for community-oriented services is on the rise. As the market adapts,the integration of flexible living arrangements with traditional hospitality services is likely to shape the future of urban lodging,making it an exciting time for both travelers and industry stakeholders.
For those interested in exploring these trends further,a podcast episode titled “La place de l’immo: Le coliving,la solution idéale?” delves into the evolving landscape of urban living and accommodation options.Coliving: A Modern Solution for Evolving Lifestyles?
As urban living continues to evolve, the concept of coliving is gaining traction as a viable housing solution for many. This innovative approach to shared living spaces is not just a trend; it reflects significant shifts in societal norms, work patterns, and family structures.
Recent discussions among experts highlight the need for a transformation in real estate planning. François Bellanger, a sociologist, emphasized that traditional housing designs have remained largely unchanged as the time of Haussmann, despite the dramatic changes in how people live and work today. “The real estate plans have not adapted to the new realities of modern life,” he noted during a recent event focused on housing solutions.
Coliving spaces are designed to cater to the needs of a diverse population, including young professionals, digital nomads, and even families seeking community-oriented living arrangements. These spaces often feature shared amenities,such as kitchens and lounges,fostering a sense of community among residents.Vincent Compagnon, a key player in the coliving movement, pointed out the evolution of kitchen spaces in residential designs.”Fifteen years ago, kitchenettes where hidden away; now they are celebrated as a central feature of living spaces,” he remarked. This shift not only reflects changing preferences but also a broader acceptance of communal living as a lifestyle choice.
The rise of coliving can also be attributed to the increasing demand for flexibility in housing. With remote work becoming more prevalent, individuals are seeking arrangements that allow for mobility and adaptability. Coliving offers a solution that combines affordability with the benefits of community living, making it an attractive option for many.
As cities continue to grapple with housing shortages and rising costs, coliving presents a forward-thinking alternative that aligns with contemporary lifestyles. By embracing this model,urban planners and developers can create spaces that not only meet the needs of today’s residents but also anticipate the demands of the future.
coliving is more than just a housing trend; it represents a significant shift in how we think about living spaces in an ever-changing world. As more people seek connection and community,this innovative approach to shared living is likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of urban housing.
Time.news Editor: Welcome, and thank you for joining us today. The emergence of mid-term rental projects,notably the hybrid spaces like the Bikube in Lyon,is a captivating trend in urban living.Can you tell us how the idea behind Bikube addresses current housing challenges?
Expert: Absolutely, and thank you for having me! The Bikube project is a brilliant response to the increasing demand for flexible living arrangements in urban centers. Emilie Schlageter,the project director,noted the significant gap in the market for accommodations that combine the comforts of home with hotel-like services. This is particularly crucial in cities where housing can often be quite challenging to navigate.
Time.news Editor: That’s an captivating point. The mention of blending private living spaces with communal areas is also noteworthy. What benefits do you see arising from such an arrangement?
Expert: Communal spaces foster social interaction and collaboration, which directly addresses the problem of social isolation that often accompanies urban living. By creating environments that encourage residents to mingle—like the kitchen and bar-restaurant in Bikube—these projects become more than just places to stay; they transform into vibrant communities.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of community, the target audience for Bikube includes international interns and professionals on temporary assignments. How does this demographic influence the design and operation of such hybrid spaces?
Expert: Great question! This demographic gravitates towards adaptability and ease of access. They often have limited time to settle into a place, so having fully furnished apartments available for longer terms—like the one to eight months offered at Bikube—makes it incredibly convenient. With competitive prices starting at €940 per month, this model not only attracts young professionals but also provides them with a support network in a new city.
Time.news Editor: Clearly, the demand for mid-term rentals is growing. We also see big developers like Bouygues Immobilier entering this space with their Nomo brand. What does this competition mean for the future of urban accommodations?
Expert: Increased competition is a clear indicator of the market’s potential. It drives innovation and can lead to improved offerings as developers strive to differentiate themselves. For instance, Bouygues’ Nomo and Vinci’s Bikube aim to target similar demographics but might approach them with unique features.As these models proliferate,we can expect more tailored accommodations that cater to specific needs,whether it’s for business travelers,families,or digital nomads.
Time.news Editor: Ah, the digital nomad trend is indeed a hot topic. How do you think this demographic shapes the future of urban living and hospitality?
Expert: Digital nomads value flexibility and community. Their preference for work-life balance influences urban accommodation models to pivot towards hybrid solutions. As they travel more frequently, the demand for adaptable living spaces will likely increase, pushing developers to offer services and amenities that cater specifically to their lifestyle—like co-working spaces or social events within the accommodation.
Time.news Editor: That’s a compelling vision for future urban living. Before we wrap up, can you summarize what you believe is the key takeaway from these emerging accommodation trends?
Expert: certainly! The rising trend of hybrid accommodations reflects not only our evolving lifestyles but also a transformation in how we view living spaces in urban settings. Today’s travelers seek comfort, flexibility, and a sense of community—qualities that these innovative projects aim to provide. As real estate developers and hospitality groups continue to invest in this model, we are likely on the brink of a significant shift in urban living dynamics.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insightful contributions! it’s clear that the future of accommodations is bright, and we look forward to following these trends as they develop.
