A look inside Australia's 20 most expensive homes
The definition of luxury in the Australian property market has changed dramatically.
According to new data from Ray White Group, the entry price for luxury homes now starts at $2.52 million – a staggering 72% increase over the past decade. But it’s not just price tags that have evolved. Today’s high-end homes are defined by greater architectural sophistication, wellness integration and future-ready design.
Ray White Chief Economist Nerida Conisbee analysed the internal features of Australia’s 20 most expensive homes and discovered how the country’s wealthiest homeowners are investing in lifestyle, sustainability and uniqueness.
The 7 most common features of the most expensive homes
Interior lifestyle amenities. Every home analysed included high-end lifestyle features, such as private cinemas, day spa-level wellness suites, saunas, steam rooms and dedicated treatment spaces. These are no longer seen as indulgent extras, but are considered essential to competing in the ultra-premium market.
Multi-level functionality. Luxury buyers want space and volume, not just floor area. Basement levels are now being converted into high-value spaces like gyms, home theatres and wellness centres. In one case, a Sydney property increased its usable area by 42% with a subterranean wellness complex.
Material contrast and layering. These homes often feature exotic finishes such as Calacatta Viola marble and Tasmanian Blackwood, which contribute to both prestige and price premiums.
Indoor-outdoor integration. Expansive disappearing glass walls help dissolve the boundaries between indoor living and outdoor views – especially in waterfront homes.
Climate-responsive design. Homes now feature automated shading, cross-ventilation and temperature-sensitive louvre systems that reduce operating costs and improve comfort.
Architectural flexibility. Many properties include self-contained wings or reconfigurable rooms to suit multi-generational living or home-office arrangements.
Curved architectural elements. Curved walls and spiral staircases deliver unique visual impact and help reduce direct comparisons with other properties – a subtle but powerful value booster.
Properties with comprehensive wellness features tend to command a price premium of 10-25%, according to the report. This reflects a major shift in buyer priorities, with wellness now regarded as a central pillar of luxury rather than a luxury in itself.