The roads have been designed to keep down vehicle speeds – specifically with pedestrian safety in mind, and provide residents with maximum walk-ability. Extra-wide kerbs provide place for trees, gardens and plant barriers separating the cycle paths from the road.

The speed limit is 30 kph, while on the waterways boats are limited to 8 kph. The commercial hub of Thesen Islands – Thesen Harbour Town – features the adaptive re-use of old buildings such as the Saw Tooth Building, The Boatshed, an old timber storage shed and the Ply Wood building.

There are other old factory and manufacturing buildings which are integrated into delightful square and shopping areas filled with restaurants, boutiques, speciality shops and marine and sporting equipment. The newly built elements of Harbour Town, approximately 20 units, were constructed in a period of 6 – 8 months. These, with existing structure of re-adapted buildings, surround public squares and parking courtyards. There are covered arcades for all-weather shopping and ample parking is provided. All commercial, office space and apartment facilities are within an easy walk and connected by pedestrian links to the residential component of Thesen Islands.