When considering purchasing a new home, visiting the Robertson Opus Showflat is often one of the first steps prospective buyers take to get a feel for the development’s style, layout, and overall ambiance. However, it is important to understand that showflats are designed with a specific purpose in mind—to showcase the potential of a unit in the best possible light. This means there can be some noticeable differences between the showflat and the actual unit you eventually receive. Understanding these differences will help set realistic expectations and assist in making an informed decision.
The official Robertson Opus Showflat website provides comprehensive details about the project, but knowing what to expect beyond the showroom floor is essential for any homebuyer.
Purpose and Design of the Showflat
The primary goal of the Robertson Opus showflat is to inspire potential buyers by highlighting the unit’s design possibilities and showcasing premium finishes, spacious layouts, and stylish furnishings. Interior designers carefully stage the showflat using high-end furniture, decorations, and lighting to create an aspirational living environment.
Because of this, the showflat often features larger furniture pieces, decorative items, and sophisticated lighting schemes that are not part of the actual unit. The purpose is to help visitors visualize how the space can be used to its fullest potential.
Actual Unit: The Bare Canvas
The actual unit that buyers will receive is generally delivered as a bare or semi-finished space depending on the developer’s specifications. This means that many of the decorative elements seen in the showflat, such as built-in wardrobes, furniture, rugs, and artwork, will not be included.
The unit will come with standard finishes, fittings, and appliances as outlined in the sales agreement, but it will lack the added styling touches that make the showflat feel warm and lived-in. This is an important distinction, as the empty unit may initially feel less inviting or spacious until the buyer adds their own furnishings and personal touches.
Space Perception: Showflat vs Actual Unit
One of the most common differences between a showflat and the actual unit is how space is perceived. Showflats often use clever design tricks to make rooms appear larger and more open. These include strategic placement of mirrors, lighting, and furniture that enhances the room’s dimensions.
In the actual unit, without these staging elements, rooms might feel smaller or less airy. This can be surprising for buyers who have only seen the showflat but is a normal part of the process. It’s recommended to review the floor plans carefully and, if possible, visit a completed or near-completed unit to better understand the true spatial layout.
Finishes and Fixtures
Showflats usually display the highest quality finishes, with premium materials and fixtures prominently highlighted to attract buyers. Developers often upgrade certain elements in the showflat as a way of demonstrating potential luxury, even if these upgrades are optional or available only at an extra cost.
In the actual unit, standard finishes may differ slightly in texture, color, or brand. While the overall quality remains good, buyers should clarify which features are included in the base price and which require additional expenditure.
Customization and Upgrades
While the showflat is a fixed setup, buyers of the Robertson Opus units may have options to customize certain aspects of their actual unit. This can include choices around cabinetry, flooring, kitchen appliances, and bathroom fixtures.
However, the showflat may depict some of these upgrades already installed, which might lead to confusion. It’s important to discuss with the sales team exactly what comes standard and what can be added later, along with associated costs and timelines.
Furnishings and Appliances
Another significant difference is the presence of furnishings and appliances. The showflat is fully furnished with tastefully chosen furniture, lighting, and decorative items, making the space feel complete and luxurious.
In contrast, the actual unit is typically delivered without any furniture or non-built-in appliances. Buyers must plan for furnishing costs and logistics as part of their overall move-in budget.
Lighting and Ambiance
Showflats are meticulously lit to create a warm, inviting ambiance that accentuates architectural features and design elements. They often use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting, which may not be fully installed in the actual unit upon handover.
Buyers should anticipate installing additional lighting fixtures to replicate the showflat’s atmosphere or customize the lighting according to personal preference.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the differences between the Robertson Opus Showflat and the actual units is crucial for setting realistic expectations and making an informed homebuying decision. The showflat serves as an idealized representation of the possibilities, helping buyers envision how their future home could look once fully furnished and personalized.
To gain the clearest picture, prospective buyers should review official floor plans, consult with sales representatives about standard inclusions and upgrades, and if possible, visit completed units or request virtual tours of actual units. This due diligence ensures buyers have a comprehensive understanding of what to expect when moving into their new home.