A desire for real-world connection is driving developers to devote more space to shared apartment amenity, with rooftops once reserved for the penthouse emerging as communal backyards for all residents.
Lisa Henderson, design director at Brisbane-based architecture studio By Culprit, said the need for human connection has altered the course of residential building design.
“In today’s world, so much of our time is on technology, so to have spaces where you can bring people into their physical world is more important than ever,” she said. “People are wanting to socialise in person again, not just on their phones, and developers recognise this.
“It greatly adds to people’s happiness to have spaces where they can see and be seen.
“I don’t think we were meant to live in boxes and be compartmentalised in the way that the industry has been going.”
A more generous, holistic approach to amenity is making the modern residential apartment building a destination in itself, where residents could share a variety of experiences with neighbours, family and friends.
“In traditional towers you might only see people in the lift or the car park,” Henderson said. “What we want is to replicate the feel of a village where you could chat with your neighbours ‘along the fence line’ but instead that might be poolside or in the herb garden.”
The design firm is the creative behind Crescent, a boutique waterfront project approved for Palm Beach, where 1120sqm has been dedicated to resident amenity.
The rooftop offers a resort-style pool, sundeck with cabanas and sun lounges, alfresco BBQ and dining areas, a woodfired pizza oven, yoga lawn, fire pit, and a herb and zen garden. There’s also a dedicated walking and jogging loop with views over Tallebudgera Creek.
On Level 1, a private wellness retreat includes a gym, steam room, infrared sauna, traditional sauna, hot spa, cold plunge, and an ice bath.
Andrew Erwin of NPA Projects, who is leading sales and marketing, said the amenity at Crescent was “out of proportion” to the size of the building.
“You don’t get that much amenity in a 20-storey building, let alone a four-level design,” Erwin said. “It means every resident, no matter which apartment they choose, gets to enjoy the kind of wellness and leisure normally reserved for luxury resorts.”
Developed by DCS Property Group, Crescent offers two and three-bedroom residences, ranging from 119 to 283sqm and priced from $2.5 million. Builder SNBX Constructions has been appointed, with completion expected in mid to late 2028.
“Buyers have become so much more knowledgeable of what is out there and they’re looking for diversity in experiences that enhance the way they live,” Henderson said. “I’m excited to see this project be a catalyst for others to emulate because it’s appealing to have this much amenity within one building dedicated to all residents, and not just a select few.”
As Feature on Gold Coast Bulletin on 30th June 2026
