As Australia’s city skylines grow ever higher, denser, the opportunities for pushing the boundaries of penthouse architecture continue to expand.
The classic penthouse occupies the whole of the top floor of an apartment complex – thereby offering 360 degree views of the surrounding city. This penthouse will usually open onto outdoor terraces and a swimming pool. The penthouse will normally feature top of the range décor, household appliances, and some will have gym and spa facilities.
A more recent concept is that of the sub-penthouses – high-spec apartments on lower levels with penthouse-style layouts, fittings and furnishings.
Australia has some of the finest penthouse apartments in the world, commanding very high prices. The penthouse market record for sales prices is continually being broken as builders and architects create increasingly extravagant and opulent versions. Part of the reason that penthouses are so sought after are that they are viewed as a status symbol. Buyers who are interested is penthouses are generally wealthy, and they want something that is unusual, in scarce supply and something that identifies with their personal taste – it’s not just about the views and space.
Additional attractions are the views, city location, great natural light and the fact that penthouses are located way above the city streets means that they are usually peaceful and quiet locations.
As they are normally the largest apartment in a high-rise block, additional space and also access to outdoor areas such as roof-top terraces are a huge bonus. These buyers are particular with regard to the finishes in the apartment as well as the layout. These buyers are educated about property and will look at the efficiency of the apartment, particularly the flow between the kitchen, dining and living areas.
Located at the top of the building, privacy is a key advantage – away from neighbours on the same level and away from street level crowds and traffic as well. Depending on the block, there is usually slim chance of being overlooked.
Most penthouses will come parking for a few cars, and some will have a pool and/or spa, and due to all of the features mentioned, make for the most amazing entertainment spaces.
