Home Buyers Put Safety First

Buyers of apartments in new developments are often prepared to compromise on many items on their wish-list but never on one of their priorities: security. 

With so many young first-home buyers and empty-nesters now buying units, the need to feel safe in their own home is paramount. 

“The extra security apartments can offer over houses is one of the reasons people actually choose to live in apartments,” says the president of Strata Community Australia (NSW), David Ferguson. 

“The idea of someone crawling through an open window at night… that’s a lot harder when you’re 20 floors up.” 

Research backs up the importance of good security. The final report of the major NSW consultation project on strata laws found one of the main gripes of strata dwellers in new buildings was: “Developers… accused of skimping on modern security provisions.”

Similarly, the University of NSW’s Governing the Compact City research project found security was an issue that came up again and again. It also played a starring role in the Grattan Institute’s What Matters Most? report. 

“It’s pretty much the case now that anyone buying anything is looking for good security,” says the Grattan report’s co-author, Jane-Frances Kelly. “It’s basic human need and is now a priority issue in decisions about buying a new dwelling, particularly for older people.” 

Both architects and developers are now acutely aware of those concerns. They were an important element in the design philosophy at the five-level, 15-apartment boutique building The Anchorage , planned for the old BP service station site in Woolloomooloo, says the principal of Eeles Trelease Architects, Kathy Trelease. 

The building, with its views straight along the Finger Wharf to the harbour beyond, edges onto the pavement along its three street frontages to ensure there are no dark lanes or spaces, while shops will keep those strips busy. The entrance will be obvious and easy to find, and the foyer will be brightly lit, with swipe keys for every area. 

The location of a building can also help its security.

“Good security should now be standard in all new apartment buildings,” Zonie Property Group developer Nick Tizzone says. “We know people want it, so developers should deliver.”

The Anchorage has two one-bedroom apartments (66sqm) left from $700,000; four two-bedders (109sqm) from $1,25 million; and one whole-floor, three-bedroom penthouse (370sqm) for more than $5 million. Phone 1800 900 649 or see www.theanchorage.net.au .

28-29 July 12 The Sydney Morning Herald Domain by Susan Wellings