Over the last two decades we have seen competition between developers escalate when it comes to the provision of residential amenities. From gyms, spas, swimming pools, screening rooms and business suites to golf simulators and recording studios, we have seen it all and more. In the last couple of years, such offerings are increasingly aimed at the pursuit of ‘wellness’. 

So just what does this mean for the residents of London’s super-prime property?

There is no one size fits all – every new scheme should have its own USP, enabling potential buyers to choose the one that is most attuned to their lifestyle and expectations. But there's no doubt that what we are seeing is something truly exceptional; something for which wealthy buyers are prepared to pay a significant premium.

On nearly all of the super-prime projects I have the privilege of working on, wellness has indeed become the focal point of how the approach to amenities, and importantly services, is designed and delivered. From top-of-the-line air filtration, carbon dioxide sensors (to let the air-handling systems know when to boost the refresh rate), circadian lighting (to stimulate the brain for waking and sleeping) and the removal of VOC-emitting materials (volatile organic compounds), what developers are looking to build is moving well beyond what is merely required to meet the latest building code.

Developers are also beginning to provide programmes that encompass mental as well as physical health. In London, in particular, we are moving on from the gym, spa and even medical concierge.  

One of the first schemes to be offering something more is The Whiteley where, through the Six Senses Hotel, residents can access state-of-the-art wellness facilities providing everything from meditation and mental health resources through to a personalised vitamin intravenous drip. Indeed most of the significant schemes in the pipeline are also seeking to take it a step further and are looking to partner with big global names to do so. 

It’s about longevity and the quality of life; these schemes ensure a personalised programme attuned to residents’ needs. This individualised approach to wellness is gaining traction and where super-prime advocates lead, others, as they have in the past, are sure to follow.

Further information

Contact Tom Mann

Savills Residential Development