Private outdoor space, white glove service, flexible floor plans and distinctive architecture are hallmarks of luxury residential developments that will open in 2021, writes VL Hendrickson.

Although the Covid-19 pandemic has caused delays, developers around the world have used the time to reallocate the space to include more balconies and terraces connected to residences, redesigning floor plans better suited to work, and at home school, and install the best technology and contactless air. -filtration systems.

In fact, over 75% of developers were more likely to add cutting edge technology and home office space to their plans, according to Knight Frank’s Global Development Report. About 54 percent are also considering more outdoor space and are turning to virtual tours, 3D photography and video conferencing.

Designer residences, where owners can enjoy the comforts of home with the convenience and amenities of hotels, remain popular with wealthy buyers. These luxury homes also offer peace of mind to those who divide their time between more than one residence, believing that their investment is well maintained. These properties can generate income when managed as part of the brand’s rental program.

Here are five projects combining the best of amenities, space and safety with bold designs and a life of luxury.

Aman New York

The luxury hotel brand Aman is due to open its first urban hotel with residences in New York this spring. Aman redesigned the historic Crown Building on Fifth Avenue and 57th Street, built in 1921 by the architects of Grand Central Terminal Warren & Wetmore and which once housed the Museum of Modern Art. Belgian designer Jean-Michel Gathy was inspired by the idea of ​​creating a sanctuary in Midtown Manhattan. At the heart of the property is a 25,000 square foot spa, offering a full menu of treatments, facilities including a Moroccan hammam and Russian baths, as well as an indoor pool surrounded by fire pits and lounge chairs. There’s also a wraparound garden terrace overlooking Central Park, a wine cellar, an underground jazz club, and gourmet restaurants such as Arva, serving Italian fare, and the Japanese-inspired restaurant. The project will start on the fourth floor, with existing businesses, such as Bvlgari, on the ground floor. The 22 residences, which range from one to six bedrooms, feature soothing wood-burning fireplaces and designer pallets; many have private pools. Prices start at US $ 13.5 million (S $ 17.93 million), the Crown Jewel, a five-story penthouse, sold for US $ 180 million in 2018.

Rosewood Mayakoba Private Residences

The Rosewood Mayakoba resort, located in a 251-hectare nature reserve in the heart of Riviera Maya, Mexico, is launching its collection of beachfront villas this year. Lagoon-facing villas range from two to five bedrooms, measuring from 3 500 to over 7,000 square feet. The homes offer large outdoor terraces connected to the home with oversized bedrooms and separate dining and living areas. The first house, called Villa Magna, is due to open in April. Javier Sordo Madaleno, of Mexico City-based Sordo Madaleno Arquitectos, designed the six-bedroom, 16,300-square-foot home, using locally sourced wood, tile, and natural stone showcasing Mexican craftsmanship. Residents can arrange butler services, private eco-tours on the water, and 24-hour room service. They also have access to the on-site Sense Spa, several restaurants, and the Greg Norman Championship Golf Course. . Four additional villas are under development, with an asking price of US $ 9.75 million (S $ 12.95 million). Unbuilt land is also available.

Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans and private residences

Another historic renovation, the Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Orleans will transform the former World Trade Center into the city’s first luxury condominium, as well as its first serviced residential building. Built in 1968, the 33-story tower was designed by architect Edward Durell Stone, whose work also includes New York’s Radio City Music Hall and the Museum of Modern Art. The $ 460 million renovation will deliver 81 condominiums overlooking the Mississippi River, as well as penthouses on the upper floors of the building and 341 riverside hotel rooms in downtown New Orleans. Benefits for residents will include a private lobby with a 24-hour doorman and dedicated concierge, as well as optional services such as in-residence meals and catering, housekeeping, and valet parking. The building’s amenities are spread over 22,500 square feet and include an upscale restaurant, fitness center, 21-meter outdoor pool, and Four Seasons spa. Prices start at US $ 3.5 million (S $ 4.65 million) and the project is expected to open in the first quarter.

Crown Residences at One Barangaroo

Glass walls lead Sydney Harbor with its famous Opera House and Harbor Bridge into the lounges of the 82 units of the Crown Residences at One Barangaroo. Each house has a distinct floor plan, thanks to the twisted facade of the 75-story building, designed by Chris Wilkinson of London-based company One Barangaroo. The bespoke interiors, by New York-based design firm Meyer Davis, were heavily inspired by the location and surroundings on the waterfront. Residents will have access to all of the hotel’s amenities, including its spa, wellness center and conference rooms, as well as services including housekeeping, concierge and valet. Australia’s premier aparthotel, it will also feature a Crown Sydney members-only casino, residents’ pool and lounge, and tennis courts. The project opened in January, with residences of two to five bedrooms and a limited number of duplex penthouses. Prices start at A $ 9.5 million (S $ 9.79 million).

The Royal Atlantis Residences, Dubai

Located on Palm Jumeirah, Dubai’s man-made palm-shaped island, Royal Atlantis Residences has 230 units at Atlantis, The Palm Resort. It will also bring true luxury of living to this bling city when it opens in the third quarter of 2021. Homes, ranging from two to five bedrooms, offer views of the Gulf and Dubai skyline, and private outdoor spaces. , some with private swimming pool. Penthouses are also available, offering even more outdoor space with plunge pools and a number of garden suites that also have private pools and outdoor entertainment. The building’s stacked architecture, designed by New York-based KPF Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, adds a distinctive silhouette to the Dubai skyline. Resident-only amenities include private beach access, an open-air swimming pool perched 90 meters above ground, outdoor pools and lounge areas, and a private fitness center. Residents will also have access to the resort’s offerings, from concierge services to some of the world’s best restaurants, including Michelin-starred dinner by Heston Blumenthal and José Andrés’ tapas bar, Jaleo. Prices start at 6.995 million dirhams (S $ 2.53 million).

(Main and Featured Image: Aman New York)

This story appeared in the April issue of Prestige Singapore.