In recent years, the concept of wellness has permeated every aspect of our lives, from what we eat to how we work. Now, it’s reshaping the very spaces we call home.
Wellness real estate is a booming trend, particularly in high-density residential developments, where the integration of health-focused amenities and design principles is becoming the norm. This movement is more than just a fleeting trend; it represents a profound shift in how we think about our living environments, driven by an aging population, the desire for healthier lifestyles, and the increasing prevalence of remote work.
A New Kind of Home
Kate Ockwell from Plus Architecture, a leading figure in this field, shares insights into how her firm is redefining residential spaces. “Our designs now include areas that feel like a day spa,” she explains. “We make sure there are plenty of outdoor and relaxation areas, as well as spaces where residents can engage in wellness activities like yoga, Pilates, and meditation—right at home.”
This approach is not just about luxury; it’s about creating environments where people can thrive. “We want to age differently,” Ockwell says, emphasising the importance of community and connection. The goal is to design spaces that support wellbeing throughout life, reducing the need for less appealing options like retirement villages and aged care facilities.
Community and Connection
One of the most significant drivers of this trend is the recognition that community plays a vital role in our health. Studies from the Blue Zones—a concept that identifies regions with the longest-living people—highlight that a strong sense of community is one of the key factors in longevity. Wellness real estate developments are designed with this in mind, offering communal spaces for social interaction, group fitness, and even cooking classes.
These developments are about more than just physical health. They are designed to be multi-sensory experiences, with careful attention to lighting, sound, and even scent. For example, lighting in these buildings is often set to mimic the natural circadian rhythm, helping residents wake up gently and wind down peacefully at the end of the day. Biophilic design principles, which incorporate natural elements like plants and water, are also commonly used to create calming, restorative environments.
Playing huge respect to the surrounding natural landscape also has a huge impact on design. Placing large windows to capture the sun and views, outdoor spaces protected from the elements and of course being sympathetic to the environment both in materials and building design as much as possible.
Wellness Amenities: More Than Just Luxury
What sets wellness real estate apart are the thoughtfully curated amenities that cater to both physical and mental wellbeing. Modern residential buildings in this space are more than just places to live; they are comprehensive wellness environments. Imagine starting your day with a session in an infrared sauna, which helps detoxify the body and reduce inflammation. Follow that with a refreshing dip in a hot-cold plunge pool, a practice known to boost circulation, reduce muscle soreness, and improve overall vitality.
These residences often feature state-of-the-art fitness centres, equipped with everything from traditional gym equipment to spaces for Pilates, yoga, and meditation. For those who seek a holistic approach to wellness, dedicated meditation rooms offer a peaceful sanctuary to practice mindfulness, promoting mental clarity and reducing stress.
Bringing the Spa Home
Incorporating these amenities into residential living means that wellness is no longer an occasional indulgence but a daily ritual. Steam rooms and saunas, often associated with high-end spas, are becoming standard features in these wellness-centric developments. These facilities are not just for relaxation; they have well-documented health benefits, including improved cardiovascular function, detoxification, and enhanced skin health.
These wellness features aren’t confined to individual units; they’re integrated throughout the entire building. Community wellness rooms allow for private sessions with wellness practitioners, whether it’s a yoga instructor, a massage therapist, or a meditation guide. The idea is to bring the spa experience home, making it an integral part of daily life.
As wellness real estate continues to evolve, these amenities will likely become the new standard, transforming our homes into places that not only shelter us but actively contribute to our health and well-being.
Sustainability and Science-Backed Design
Beyond the wellness facilities themselves, the materials and technologies used in these buildings are carefully chosen to promote health. “The materials are respectful of the environment,” Ockwell notes, “with low-VOC paints, chemical-free pools, and air and water filtration systems that remove toxins.”
This commitment to sustainability and wellbeing is backed by science. Research has shown that exposure to natural light, clean air, and water, and even the use of certain colors and materials can have a profound impact on our health. For instance, lighting that changes throughout the day can help regulate our sleep-wake cycles, while clean air and water reduce the risk of respiratory and other health issues.
A Trend That’s Here to Stay
The wellness real estate trend shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, it’s expected to grow as more people become aware of the benefits of living in environments designed for health and wellbeing. For developers, these features are not just selling points; they are essential components of modern residential design. And for residents, they represent a new way of living—one that prioritises health, happiness, and community.
In a world where we are increasingly disconnected from one another and from nature, wellness real estate offers a way to reconnect. It’s about more than just a place to live; it’s about creating spaces where people can truly thrive. And as this trend continues to evolve, it will likely shape the future of housing for generations to come.
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