Optimising individual lifestyle

Central to a high class of living are elegant amenities and top-notch inclusions, which bring your lifestyle experience to the next level

From outdoor firepits and heated spas to interior games rooms with built-in bars or kitted-out home theatres, they have the power to transform a space into a truly luxe haven.

According to Willing Build Construction Director Dayne Willing, these days, people are opting for features customised to their own needs.

He said facilities which were once only accessible by heading outside the home were now being integrated into builds.

“We’re seeing very considered amenities from clients these days – things which are tailored or suited to their individual lifestyle.” Mr Willing said.

“Amenities which, once upon a time, you would have had to travel for are now being included in custom builds – home gyms, saunas, yoga and Pilates rooms, and butler’s pantries are now quite common.”

Even garages are being constructed with a focus on versatility, now often functioning as a living space to allow owners to gaze upon their cars while enjoying a round of snooker.

Furthering the theme of clients prizing personalised and controlled spaces, Mr Willing said zones tailored for showcasing art pieces and furniture were being incorporated into home design.

“These spaces really allow the occupants to enjoy more time in their own dwellings, with the ability to enjoy relaxation and amenity without leaving the home.” he said

Despite all these ultra-modern concepts, Mr Willing said there was also special focus being given to organic elements.

“One of the trends we’re currently seeing is bringing the outside in via gardens and visible greenery.” he said.

According to Oswald Homes Senior Designer Michal Kurtis, for an inclusion to be luxurious, it needs to go beyond just serving a functional purpose.

“With urban infill, the trend is maximising smaller lots by putting useable private outdoor spaces on top of the home such as a rooftop terrace.” he said.

“The idea of large minor bedrooms with mini ensuites to accommodate the changing dynamics of a growing family is also popular with multi-generational homes – especially amidst the housing crisis.”

As well as rooftop terraces, Mr Kurtis said some of the most luxurious amenities clients sought out included internal swimming pools, atriums and even hidden rooms.

“The amenity becomes a feature – an attraction adding to the overall ambience and architectural character of the residence,” he said. “It’s something which can be enjoyed by all or exclusively by some of the occupants.

“Some clients have even requested an internal koi pond viewable from multiple rooms, a secret whisky room with hidden access, a home theatre with its own snack bar and a split-level pool with a connecting water slide.”

Mr Kurtis said other favourites desired by high-end clients included hotel-style master bedrooms with attached living spaces, opulent ensuites with views, dressing rooms instead of walk-in robes, raking or cathedral ceilings to family spaces and external alfrescos.  

Nowadays, standard home designs are more often just a starting point,” he said. “People are paying a premium for ling space, so they are demanding a level of customisation to secure a home which is both functional and enjoyable for their individual block”

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