Increasingly, new developments have to adapt to trends both within the property world and wider society. These changes can impact the communal amenities provided and the repurposing of outdoor space.

A new type of resident is entering the new-build market attracted to the lifestyle it provides and all the amenities it offers. In turn, luxury developments are constantly innovating to offer incredible services that reflect the needs of the market: club rooms, flexible working spaces, gym & fitness facilities and communal green spaces are all high on the list.

A working culture shift has occurred in the last 10 years, as more companies offer employees the opportunity to work flexibly. This has influenced how new-build developments are approaching communal spaces.

Traditional workspace is rapidly changing – lots of people enjoy flexible working and increasingly are working from home.  However, they don’t want to feel isolated and would rather live somewhere where they can meet and interact with other people.  Every resident of Embassy Gardens, for example, can become a member of the Eg:le Club, granting access to private, first-class amenities, along with the world’s first sky pool, a gym and spa, and an indoor swimming pool.

Wellness continues to be an important focus of residents. At London's Television Centre development, the Soho House gym is an integral part of the offering of the development. The health club has an 18.5m pool, steam room, sauna, fitness and yoga studios as well as a spa that gives a full range of beauty treatments – all in a high-end, contemporary space.

Small basement gyms are largely a  thing of the past, developers today realise that they will have to maximise amenity space to benefit residents, who are looking for a more complete fitness experience.  

In addition to facilities for exercise, developments are increasingly accommodating a rise in cycling – either for fitness or as alternative to the daily commute. Developments, such as Bedford House in Balham, offer secure indoor cycle storage and each household is given a contribution to assist with greener modes of transport; such as buying a bike.  Bedford House has great cycling facilities. Close to Cycle Superhighway 7, residents can safely ride uninterrupted all the way from Balham into the city. 

Outside London, Frith Park on Walton-on-the-Hill also has built-in cycle storage for each home, allowing residents to easily jump on their bikes and head straight out to nearby Box Hill for a Sunday spin.

Further information

Contact Savills Residential Development Sales