How DTJ Experienced Innovation in 2024

In conversation with:
Dawn Duhamel, Associate Principal + Director of Business Development
Jason Cheng, Principal + Austin Director

When we wrapped up Experience Innovation 2024: Community Amenities in Austin, TX, the conversations didn’t stop at the venue doors. Insights, connections, and “aha moments” continued to resonate long after attendees returned to their home markets.

From Strangers to Collaborators

One of the most striking outcomes was how quickly the group dynamic shifted among people who began the event as strangers. Dawn captured it perfectly: “There might be something golden in the question they’re asking or the takeaway they’re sharing, and then suddenly, it clicks.”

This unfamiliarity sparked a different kind of curiosity. Attendees asked unexpected, thought-provoking questions and leaned into genuine discovery. Between sessions, conversations centered less on formalities and more on connecting—and collaborating. That organic process became one of the event’s greatest strengths.

“You start to see how people work together, how they problem-solve, and what solutions they think through,” added Dawn. “That’s what the ‘innovation’ in ‘Experience Innovation’ is about.”

Shared Challenges, Shared Solutions

What surprised many participants was the openness, especially among individuals whom are, technically, competitors.

“Everyone was open and willing to share points of view because we all have the common goal of trying to make better communities,” shared Jason.

This transparency revealed a valuable truth: there’s no “secret sauce.” Each firm approaches challenges differently and hearing how others tackle the same obstacles provided new strategies and perspectives.

Real-World Problem Solving

Activities were designed to mirror the complexities of real-life development. In one exercise, teams drafted amenity plans based on location, character, passion, elements, size, and unexpected wildcards—deliberate complications that reflected true-to-life roadblocks.

“Things don’t always go as planned, but working through the unexpected is when interactivity and creativity come to life.”

– Dawn Duhamel

Key Takeaways on Amenities

The discussions revealed several practical insights:

• Know Your Buyer Profile: The first step is understanding exactly who you’re building for. As Jason emphasized: “The depth to which that gets defined—buyer and renter profile—is critical.”
• Operations Matter: Great ideas may look strong on paper, but their performance in use may be surprising. For example, hammock groves might appear appealing, but theft can quickly become a real issue.
• Engagement is Everything: Amenities need more than presence; they require intention. Having a point person who understands the why is essential for success.

“The success of amenities lies in offering various opportunities for people to engage and use them.”

– Jason Cheng

• Technology Integration: Staying ahead of technological advancements helps communities stay competitive. Developers are now differentiating on lifestyle, offering concierge services and curated spaces that extend far beyond pools and gyms.
• The 60-70% Question: Is 60-70% amenity utilization “good enough?” Some argue the bar should be closer to 100%. The debate raises important questions about resource allocation and whether you’ve truly aligned with your buyer profile.

Want to go even deeper? 

Read how 1️⃣ intentional, nature-led amenity design builds community or 2️⃣ how strategy turns amenities into lasting investments.

The Austin Advantage

Hosting in Austin added depth to the conversation. Local voices blended with national perspectives to highlight what makes certain markets thrive.

“It was great to hear from locals and those from out of the state to hear what’s happening in our backyard,” Jason noted.

Austin didn’t just host the event—it actively shaped it.

Brains, Balance, and Belonging

In a room full of leaders, what stood out wasn’t hierarchy, it was presence.

Attendees described the collaborative nature of the event: no single voice dominated, and everyone had space to contribute. It also created moments to see industry peers not only as professionals, but as people.

“It was a great opportunity to take part in an event where it wasn’t about work or a project, but about the industry.”

– Dawn Duhamel

Looking Ahead

As we prepare for Experience Innovation 2025, these reflections remind us that innovation emerges at the intersection of curiosity, honesty, and a willingness to learn from both successes and failures. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about asking more intentional questions.

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