Healthy homes: the residential developments leading the way in wellness
From padel tennis courts and rooftop running tracks to state-of-the-art spas, discover the developments that place health and wellbeing at their heart
For many of us the start of the new year means a renewed focus on improving our health and wellbeing. However, as anyone who has set a resolution to get fit knows, actually heading out to the gym - particularly in cold winter months - is another matter altogether. Imagine instead having world-class amenities right on your doorstep that go beyond typical fitness facilities, but are designed to ensure optimal performance of both mind and body.
This holistic approach to wellbeing is one that is being pioneered by London’s top developments, offering residents an effortless way to feel their very best. Both driving and responding to the latest trends in the sector, these amenities span state-of-the-art fitness technology and in-demand training techniques, to science-led approaches to rest and recovery.
“There’s certainly been a shift post-Covid with people placing increasing levels of importance on health and wellbeing,” says Sophie Davies, a Partner at Knight Frank. “What is interesting are the changes in how people actually approach fitness. We have gone from standard gyms and classes to more boutique fitness offerings (such as Barry’s and 1Rebel), and then to remote workouts during the pandemic. Now there is a huge focus on coaching and performance such as Hyrox and CrossFit.”
This diversity in offering has been noticed too by Priya Black, a Partner at Knight Frank, with developers incorporating a bespoke and tailored approach that also factors in all-important relaxation and recuperation. “There is certainly more demand for flexible spaces that can be booked for personal training or yoga sessions. Cardio and strength training are no longer the main priority for some, as mindfulness and meditation become key factors,” she says. “And it seems that trends such as the installation of ice baths, Reformer Pilates and access to green space are set to continue.”
The Sky Residences at One Bishopsgate Plaza
Health is taken seriously at this development in the heart of the City, with a comprehensive offering that includes expert oversight from the on-site Wellbeing Manager Robbie Leung, a former Olympic athlete. Whatever your goals, their team works in close collaboration to help achieve them. This could range from personal trainers working with your yoga instructor to ensure you get enough rest, to your facialist consulting with your nutritionist to solve any dietary issues affecting your skin. Within the 3,500 sq ft space dedicated to holistic wellness you’ll find tech-forward Tecnobody equipment, including its revolutionary D-Wall digital training system, and a state-of-the-art spa complete with a serene 60-ft swimming pool bathed in natural light.
Queens Cross, Royal Eden Docks
For those seeking a calmer pace of life in the capital, Queens Cross offers unparalleled and serene waterside living. Beyond the development’s 5,000 sq m of green space, take a stroll along the river and enjoy the range of watersports on your doorstep. Fitness-obsessed residents will relish the Peloton-powered gym, indoor cycling and yoga room at the residents’ club, with a 20-metre swimming pool, sauna, steam room and treatment rooms awaiting afterwards. Meanwhile, head to the rooftop athletics track - the first of its kind in London - to get some sprints in with sweeping views across the Olympic Park, Canary Wharf and the City.
The Ariel, set within the iconic Television Centre’s only tower building and part of Phase 2 of the development, is designed to restore balance to the lives of busy Londoners. This well-rounded vision includes the Wellness Suite. Work up a sweat in the personal training area or yoga and Pilates studio, before relaxing in the wellness lounge where you can enjoy a beautiful view over nature or indulge in the suite’s treatment room. Residents will also benefit from access to the nearby Soho House-managed gym, the largest from the group to date, and a chance to connect with the local community. Alongside best-in-class strength and cardio equipment you’ll find a wellness room, steam room, sauna, hammam, and a 17-metre indoor pool.
The redevelopment of this landmark building in London not only heralds the arrival of a collection of high-end residences but also the UK’s first Six Senses hotel, a company renowned for its dedication to wellness and sustainability. There are some rather fun ways to get your workout in, with a sports hall featuring a padel tennis court, half basketball court, volleyball and badminton court. Meanwhile, residents will also be able to access the elevated amenities of the hotel, including the 20m swimming pool, luxurious spa, gym and membership to Six Senses Place, a social club where wellness and community intertwine.
Among the many advantages of living at this prestigious development in Belgravia is exclusive access to The Garrison Club, an extraordinary space here to service your every need. Managed by Athletic Medical Performance, it takes in over 50,000 sq ft of amenities designed for, and by, sports enthusiasts to create a world-class experience. The gym enjoys a view over the multi-use sports hall with championship tennis court - perfect for those with a more competitive nature - while the 25m swimming pool and hydro pool are ideal for laps and relaxation alike.
Located in the vibrant and cultural South Bank, The Edit represents the very best of city-centre living. With a focus on creating a truly personalised experience for residents, a team of Curators will be on hand to impart insider knowledge on how to unlock the best of the capital’s dining, culture and more. This bespoke approach continues to its No.9 club, with everything you need to perfect your wellness routine. It has partnered with Peloton to create a comprehensive fitness experience at your fingertips, kitting out the gym with the latest Peloton bikes and Tread machines, alongside an extensive range of other equipment for the ultimate full-body workout. And helping you restore and reset will be a reinvigorating Brass Monkey ice bath and the high-tech Sunlighten mPulse Smart Sauna, which allows you to choose programmes to target specific health benefits.
