Luxury buyers are looking for more than generous floorplans, impressive finishes and a good view. They want homes that feel comfortable, private and easy to live in, both now and in the years ahead.
“Beautiful materials and finishes are expected at this end of the market. The real difference is how a place works and how it makes you feel when you’re there,” said Kimberly Withrow, Project Director at Wentworth Equities, who is overseeing the delivery of Hamilton Grove on Brisbane’s riverside.
“For me, luxury is about how everything comes together to make everyday life better.”
Ms Withrow said the idea of luxury living has changed considerably since the early 2000s, when high rise living was still relatively new for many Australians and large floorplans, waterfront locations and premium fittings were often enough to set a development apart.
“Buyers are more discerning now,” she said. “They still want space and quality, but the bigger shift is that people are asking what their home will actually allow them to do and how it will make them feel. Can they entertain comfortably? Is there somewhere quiet to work? Does the building offer a sense of community while still allowing them to retreat and have privacy?”
Inspired by The Grove in Los Angeles, Hamilton Grove brings together residences, hospitality, leisure and shared spaces to create a riverside precinct with its own sense of place.
“We wanted to give Brisbane something a little different. With a hotel concierge and a wonderful range of amenities, coming home to Hamilton Grove feels a lot like coming home to a beautiful hotel by the river,” Ms Withrow said.
“We’re bringing together premium appliances, beautifully considered finishes and amenities with top of the line equipment, alongside a strong focus on wellness.
“It’s having a kitchen you love cooking in, spaces where you can comfortably entertain family and friends, and fitness and wellness facilities you actually want to use.
“Then there are the things you feel every day: natural light, good acoustics, privacy and a layout that works. That attention to detail is what turns a beautiful space into a lovely home.”
Feng Shui Master Jane Langof has been involved in Hamilton Grove from early in the project.
“Jane’s input adds another perspective to how the spaces connect and flow, and how people experience them,” Ms Withrow said.
Ms Withrow said developments also need to be designed with the next two decades in mind, particularly as Brisbane grows in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“People’s needs change. A room might need to work as a study today and serve a different purpose later. We also need to think about ageing in place, changing family arrangements, electric vehicles and how buildings respond to Brisbane’s climate.
“These aren’t just trends. They need to be part of the design from the beginning, so buildings can adapt as people’s lives change.
“You can’t predict every change, but you can make thoughtful decisions now that give people flexibility and make their homes a pleasure to live in for a long time. To me, that’s a much more meaningful definition of luxury.”
Hamilton Grove is Wentworth Equities’ first foray into the South East Queensland market, with Wentworth Equities Executive Chairman Sameh Ibrahim having established a strong reputation as a recognised and respected luxury property manager and developer in Sydney.