Buying an off-the-plan apartment lets you create a stylish, personalized home from the beginning
Personalize an off-the-plan apartment your way,
Off-the-plan apartments offer a pathway to homeownership with benefits like government concessions, stamp duty savings, and lower deposits.
Additionally, these homes give you more time to save and prepare before moving in, easing the financial burden.
Typically, developments feature cost-effective designs and floor plans that benefit both the builder and the buyer.
While altering the floor plan might not be feasible, there are still opportunities to customize entry-level designs to suit your needs.
Developers tend to be open to incorporating your preferences during the early stages of planning and design.
However, as the project progresses, making changes can become more complicated and less flexible.
Samantha Darmarkis, interior design manager at Sherridon Homes, advises factoring in customizations before construction begins for smoother approval.
So, what customizations can you consider? Darmarkis shares key recommendations that will enhance your new off-the-plan apartment.
1. Modifying the layout
Developers are familiar with custom requests for floorplans and often accommodate changes based on buyer preferences.
Buyers may request adjustments such as a larger laundry, a study with built-in storage, or a bigger kitchen island.
These types of requests allow you to personalize your apartment to better match your lifestyle and daily routines.
However, changes involving structural elements, such as expanding a bathroom or relocating the kitchen due to plumbing, are typically not possible.
Nevertheless, layout modifications can still be made, depending on the specific request and the stage of development.
It’s crucial to discuss your preferred changes as early as possible for the best chance of approval.
Samantha Darmarkis advises that buyers without industry experience should understand that changes are much harder to implement later in the process.
2. Selection of fixtures and finishes
One of the most popular ways to customize your off-the-plan apartment is by selecting fixtures and finishes.
This includes everything from tapware and window coverings to tile choices and flooring options.
Upgrading your flooring can significantly influence the overall tone of your apartment, setting a stylish foundation.
Hardwood floors, engineered timber, and high-quality tiles not only enhance aesthetics but also offer durability and easy maintenance.
In wet areas, choosing floor-to-ceiling tiles is a high-impact option that adds a luxurious, hotel-like atmosphere.
Additionally, small details can make a big difference, so consider upgrading tapware and lighting fixtures for improved style and functionality.
3. Storage solutions and design
If you’re transitioning from a house to an apartment, storage space is likely to be a key concern.
Darmarkis explains that homebuyers downsizing later in life often come from larger homes and need to downsize their belongings.
However, many may not be accustomed to the storage limitations that come with apartment living.
“Storage needs to be well thought out in apartments,” Darmarkis advises. “Smart built-in joinery can significantly maximize available space.”
Incorporating built-in wardrobes, linen cabinets, and strategically placed shelves ensures that every inch of space is utilized effectively.
This approach applies to every room, from kitchens to bedrooms, ensuring maximum storage without sacrificing style.
In smaller apartments, optimizing space becomes even more essential. For example, in units without a dedicated laundry room, efficient designs matter.
“A well-planned European-style laundry, integrated within a cupboard, can truly make a difference,” Darmarkis suggests.
4. Lighting layout and design
Lighting has the power to completely transform the atmosphere of your apartment, impacting both functionality and aesthetics.
Darmarkis cautions that electrical work, particularly lighting, can be difficult to modify once the apartment setup is complete.
It’s important to carefully plan the placement of lighting and consider adding dimmers or feature lighting for flexibility.
This approach helps create a versatile living environment, balancing practical lighting with a desirable ambiance.
For example, task lighting in kitchens is essential, while mood lighting in living areas can set the right tone.
5. Kitchen upgrades
In any home, the kitchen tends to be the central hub, and modern apartments often feature open floorplans.
These layouts typically create a seamless flow from the kitchen to the living and dining areas, enhancing the space.
When designing your kitchen, focusing on the functionality and quality of appliances is key to a serene living environment.
In some cases, buyers may have the option to upgrade appliances, improving both the apartment’s functionality and overall aesthetic.
Darmarkis suggests integrating appliances so they blend into the design, making them functional but visually unobtrusive.
Additionally, she emphasizes that appliances should be efficient, particularly in terms of noise level and energy use.
Expert tip: Consult professionals for interior design decisions.
When selecting finishes for your apartment, you’ll want them to meet your expectations and enhance your overall living experience.
Modern apartments typically offer a high standard of finishes, often curated by professional design teams and firms.
However, as Darmarkis advises, it’s beneficial to consult a designer early in the process to ensure the best results.
“With apartments, the colour palette is usually set in advance, but you may not have access to a studio appointment.”
Given this, Darmarkis suggests engaging a designer to review plans, provide feedback, and assess whether storage is sufficient.
A designer can also advise if the layout can be improved or if any customizations are possible.
“As long as developers are open and changes are addressed early, there is typically some flexibility to customize,” she explained.
