The future of lifestyle estates

South Africa's lifestyle estates are already sought after for many reasons: the security they offer, the family-orientated way of life and the idyllic environs in which children can be free to ride their bikes in the streets. Looking at global trends and lifestyle estates in other parts of the world, factors like sustainability, wellness amenities, opportunities for collaboration and smart features are also becoming the norm behind the secure walls of lifestyle estates. Jawitz Properties takes a look at some of the factors becoming prevalent in lifestyle estates around the world.

A stronger focus on sustainability and green living

Of course, in the South African context, any mention of the environmental benefits of going off the grid must be coupled with a reminder of the ever-prevalent loadshedding. "Green" considerations and concerns are far from the only reason that people want to be less reliant on Eskom. Globally, lifestyle estates are embracing factors like energy efficiency, renewable energy and biodiversity. From individual homes - complete with solar panels, inverters and the like - to indigenous, water-wise gardens, a strong focus of lifestyle estates around the world is a commitment to the environment. South Africans can expect to see an ever-increasing focus on oneness with nature in lifestyle estate designs.

A press release issued by New World Wealth earlier this year provides a list of the top ten lifestyle estates in the world for 2023. According to the report, environmental benefits are key determiners of top lifestyle estates. For example, estates that protect river systems that flow through the property, plant indigenous plants and trees and promote sustainable energy are highly sought after. Incidentally, the report lists South Africa's Steyn City (pictured) among its top ten global contenders.

More space allocated to wellness activities

While South Africans have grown accustomed to the presence of swimming pools, clubhouses and perhaps tennis courts in lifestyle estates, global trends indicate a stronger focus on lifestyle amenities and wellness activities in the future. Over and above gyms and fitness centres, we can expect to see features like yoga studios, outdoor recreation areas, spas and even meditation studios. On-site doctors and nurses - currently a feature of retirement estates in South Africa but not other lifestyle estates - will become increasingly prevalent. 

A greater focus on opportunities for connection and collaboration

Many of South Africa's lifestyle estates already offer communal gardens, and in the future, estates are likely to become even more collaborative. Looking at global examples, we can expect to see co-working areas and opportunities for residents to collaborate and share resources. Co-working facilities are likely to boast high-speed fibre, video conferencing facilities and open-plan "hotdesking" work areas.

Homes with technology built in from the foundations up

Smart home technology will play a bigger and bigger role in the lifestyle estates of tomorrow, with home automation systems being standard features. These systems will allow residents to remotely control their lighting, thermostat, security systems and built-in entertainment systems. As artificial intelligence and virtual reality continue to develop, estate residents will get to enjoy increasingly personalised and seamless services.

An increasingly 'resort-like' way of life

Over and above the security factor that has made lifestyle estates so popular in South Africa, residents look for added lifestyle opportunities, like lifestyle centres, safe bike routes, running trails and parks. Taking the "live, work, play" idea to the next level, developers of lifestyle estates are seeing the value in offering concierge-like services. Internationally, residents of some estates see this service extended to offer everything from house cleaning and dog walking to virtual assistants and private chefs.

The sky's the limit when it comes to the features that South African lifestyle estates could offer in the future - and there are many estates that already offer residents a way of life that's second to none. Get in touch with Jawitz Properties if you're interested in buying into one of South Africa's well-loved lifestyle estates.