As a trusted, repeat partner for this ownership group, Color Works was brought back to reimagine the next chapter of Emerald Place—a well-located but aging multifamily community in Durham, North Carolina. The client’s goal was clear: transform perception, elevate the resident experience, and create a model unit that didn’t just show a floor plan but told a story of modern living. Through thoughtful design, curated FF&E, and seamless project management, Color Works helped reposition the property for long-term success in a rapidly evolving market.

In Durham, North Carolina’s thriving multifamily market—anchored by a growing tech sector and a steady influx of young professionals and small families—competition continues to rise as new construction enters the market. Established communities like Emerald Place face the challenge of standing out without full-scale redevelopment. The ownership group, a repeat Color Works client, turned to the team once again to help elevate the property’s appeal and ensure it remained relevant for the next generation of renters.

Having previously experienced Color Works’ ability to transform multifamily assets with measurable ROI, the client re-engaged the team to address Emerald Place’s most pressing issue: its age. The property needed a thoughtful design intervention that could bring it forward by decades—bridging its solid structural bones with modern renter expectations.

The primary goal was to increase tour-to-lease conversion rates by transforming the model unit into a marketing showcase that illustrated what life could look like at Emerald Place. The challenge was to achieve this within limited CapEx and while maintaining occupancy, requiring efficiency, coordination, and a clear design vision.

A soft, neutral palette balanced warmth and sophistication, while layered textures added a sense of modern comfort. Each FF&E selection was chosen to feel intentional and attainable—creating a space that looked aspirational but livable. To communicate inclusivity and authenticity, Color Works included pet bowls in the kitchen vignette, signaling that Emerald Place welcomes all members of a resident’s household, paws included.

To complete the experience, the team also coordinated exterior updates, including a new paint scheme and refreshed pool furniture, ensuring that every touchpoint—from the curb to the clubhouse—felt cohesive and contemporary.

The updated model unit quickly became the centerpiece of Emerald Place’s leasing strategy. Leasing teams reported stronger engagement, with prospective residents spending more time in the model and commenting on how easily they could envision themselves living there. The combination of strategic staging, modern FF&E, and cohesive branding delivered a measurable lift in tour-to-lease conversion rates.

Key Results:

• Significant improvement in tour-to-lease conversion following redesign
• Repositioned an aging asset to compete with new Class A developments
• Enhanced resident perception through cohesive exterior and interior upgrades
• Strengthened owner-designer partnership through repeat collaboration

At Color Works, many of our most successful projects—like Emerald Place—begin with a simple goal: helping ownership see new potential in an existing space. Whether modernizing an aging asset, refreshing a model unit, or reimagining an amenity for today’s renter, our approach centers on measurable results and lasting partnerships.

If your property could benefit from renewed energy and stronger leasing performance, our team can help you uncover the design strategies that make your asset feel future-ready. 

Let’s start a conversation about what’s next for your portfolio.