Why developers are designing for community

A post-COVID world left us yearning for community. Community is crucial for the way in which we live, work, and play, and when the pandemic took that away, we realised how much we depended on it. Property developers around Australia recognise the huge part community plays in our general wellbeing in their projects, such as those created by renowned developers Sekisui House Australia and Golden Age Group.

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve come to appreciate the profound importance of community in our daily lives. It's an inherent part of our human nature to seek connection and a sense of belonging, offering us not only security but an enhanced quality of life.

This craving for community has become more pronounced in the wake of 2020 – a sentiment that hasn't gone unnoticed by property developers across Australia.

The outcome? Remarkable residential projects that exemplify the principles of a community-driven development: prime location, abundant amenities, and unmatched convenience.

Sekisui House Australia and Golden Age Group are among those who share this perspective.

“The impact of COVID-19 has been notable in shaping the priorities of our purchasers,” said Taku Hashimoto, Project Director, Apartment & Mixed-Use Developments – West Village & Ripley.

“They now place even greater emphasis on finding a community that not only aligns with their lifestyle but also provides essential convenience and opportunities to connect with others.

“The pandemic highlighted the importance of strong local networks and the need for accessible amenities.

“As a result, our purchasers are increasingly seeking environments that not only cater to their immediate needs but also foster a sense of belonging and the chance to forge new connections.

“We particularly saw this with purchasers in our latest residential offering, the Allere Collection, with incredible enquiry numbers and 85% of residences now sold out.”

Located in Sekisui House’s multi-award-winning West Village precinct, The Allere Collection is the epitome of community-led living in the Sunshine State, boasting resident-only rooftop amenities, a near-perfect walk score in an inner-city location, and seamless access to West Village’s extensive facilities.

“We often see residents engaging with their neighbours, whether it's catching up for a casual dinner, a coffee chat, or attending one of the numerous events we host on-site,” Hashimoto revealed.

“With a 99/100 walk score at West Village, our residents have unparalleled convenience at their doorstep.

“From the medical hub located in the Eaves to the convenience of Harris Farm Markets, Woolworths, Goodlife Health Clubs, and Soak Bathhouse, along with a diverse array of over 30 dining and retail options.”

Sekisui House Australia’s goal for community-led living extends to their masterplanned project in Norwest, NSW – Veue Central at The Orchards.

“Research shows that one of the strongest elements appreciated by apartment owners is convenient location followed by flexibility, space, and community,” said George Gesouras, Project Director, Apartment & Mixed-Use Developments – The Orchards.

“The flexible design innovation that apartments at The Orchards feature is in line with Sekisui House’s strong focus on designing homes that can ‘grow with you.’”

Comprising 210 apartments with one to four-bedroom floorplans, Veue Central is the latest stage in Sekisui House’s extensive masterplanned community in The Hills, The Orchards.

“The Orchards offers unrivalled access to the best things in life – from connection and convenience to abundant green spaces and stunning golf course and water views.

“Community amenities that are being delivered at The Orchards include an indoor wellness centre, featuring an indoor heated pool, gymnasium, and community function centre.

“Along with an outdoor lagoon pool, outdoor cinema, walking trails, The Orchards’ parklands, BBQ and entertaining facilities, The Orchards boasts one of largest community facilities in Sydney’s Northwest.

“The importance of community to purchasers when purchasing an apartment can vary significantly depending on individual preferences, lifestyle, and specific circumstances.”

Melbourne-based developer Golden Age Group hones this community-led way of life for families through its new townhome project in Glen Waverley, Floret. Designed by award-winning architects Rothelowman, Floret offers expansive four-bedroom townhomes within 1,000 sqm of green spaces.

Founding principal and chairman of Rothelowman, Shane Rothe, believes community goes hand-in-hand with security when purchasers are looking to buy their next property.

“Downsizers and upsizers value the sense of community and security,” Rothe said.

“At Floret, this involved the central park as the primary amenity.

“Families with kids can create friendships within the neighbourhood as the central parkland and children’s playground is a great place for kids to spend time outside the home.

“Living in a connected, welcoming, and safe neighbourhood is crucial, and this is also what makes Floret unique, especially in this location in Glen Waverley.”

Residences are quickly selling in these three community-led projects. Whether you seek community in a vibrant inner-city address, a masterplanned community in The Hills, or a tranquil family-focused community walking distance from schools, you will find it in these projects.

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Header image of The Allere Collection, The Orchards, and Floret (L-R).