Better by Design.

Better by design - how we create communities.

At AVJennings, we do much more than just build homes. For more than 90 years we’ve helped create communities where people want to live, and for how they want to live today. To make this happen, we consider good design at every stage - from our home interiors, exteriors, the streetscapes and landscapes, and the overall character of the community. Roger Wyatt, AVJennings National Design Manager explains how we do this.

Putting people first

Communities are first and foremost about people. Roger explains, “In every community we create we consult extensively with locals and local government to make sure each finished community will become part of the fabric of the wider neighbourhood. By putting people and their needs, ideas, cares and considerations first, we aim to make every AVJennings community a place people would love to live in.”

Respecting the landscape

“Nature doesn’t have straight lines and corners, so when planning a new community we try to fit in with and respect the local landscape’s curves, slopes, water and vegetation”, says Roger. We make sure all home sites have good access to green space - as well as good sun access to encourage use of solar energy. We aim to preserve, protect or replenish waterways and existing vegetation and trees where possible.

Variety is the spice of life

With a good mix of home sizes, types and prices, we bring together people of different ages, stages and backgrounds to enjoy life as a rich and vibrant neighbourhood.

Green space for active lifestyles

Now more than ever, we know it's important to take care of our health by being active and to encourage our kids to do the same. Roger says “That’s why we make sure parkland, play spaces and exercise areas are part of our communities. We’re always looking for interesting ways to make play areas attractive.” At our award winning Creekwood project, AVJennings enlisted the help of local schoolchildren to help create artwork and sculptural pieces that became integral features of the community’s Natural Play Area.

Keeping everyone connected

Good communities are well-connected, both inside and out. We build links to transport, schools, shopping, work, recreation and the wider area. We also build connections within each community - paths, trails and roads to help neighbours meet, socialise and explore. We prioritise people over cars without inconveniencing drivers. Roger explains, “AVJennings was actually the first developer to popularise the cul-de-sac as a way to create neighbourly street spaces with no through traffic”.

Roger shares how some connecting ideas don’t just take people places, they bring them together. “Some of our most popular initiatives are simple ones such as establishing public community gardens. It provides a place to meet and socialise with like-minded people. Neighbours share gardening tips and are also known to engage in a little gentle competition to see who has the greenest thumb!”