How developers are catering to the modern downsizer

Developers and designers have been busy reimaging what downsizing means. As people are increasingly turning to the lifestyle which apartment living affords, they’re seeking multipurpose areas, wellness spaces, rooftop sanctuaries, outdoor kitchens and work and study zones.

And small apartments no longer cut it for people who are downsizing from a large home. More and more, people are looking for spacious apartments with house-like proportions or designer terraces with amenities that have been thoughtfully considered to improve their quality of life.

This trend of downsizing has been reshaping the way architects and developers think about their projects and how they can best address buyers’ needs.

“The emphasis with many of the developments we are doing now is for much fewer studio and one-bedroom apartments, with the majority being two and three-bedroom with two bathrooms,” says John Andreas, director of WMK Architecture.

“Plus, there is a desire for a more resort-like feel to the public areas, both internally and externally, and a diversity of amenities for residents.”

Although downsizers want to move on from properties that require upkeep and maintenance, they’re not willing to compromise on quality and spacious interiors.

Developers and architects are answering their call with boutique developments that combine high-end living with functional floor plans and quality finishes – whether this is in the guise of apartments with house-like proportions or designer terrace houses embracing modern luxuries.

The amenities that developers are adding to the mix also add to the overall appeal of these lifestyle properties. These include concierge services and private lift access, multiple living spaces (including media rooms or study zones), gourmet kitchens and grand-sized main suites with walk-in wardrobes and en suite bathrooms. Plus, spacious courtyards and balconies that function as extended living areas.

“Generally, our experience is showing an emphasis on the larger two to three-bedroom units coupled with creating greater common area amenity such as incorporating WeWork-style [co-working] spaces on the ground floor, both internally and externally,” Andreas says. “We’re also seeing the inclusion of a parcel room, with some developers looking at cool rooms for food deliveries.”

Yet, it’s not just apartments that are switching things up; traditional terrace houses are also being revitalised. In Sydney’s inner city, Glebe’s newest boutique development has taken the terrace-house concept and turned it on its head, with Millard Place offering a collection of 15 four-bedroom luxury terrace homes.

A contemporary spin on the historic terraces of Glebe, the terraces of Millard Place ticks all the right boxes for those looking to downsize. Sitting across three levels with private internal lifts, the residences have open living areas that extend into an internal atrium garden, opulent kitchens, spa-like bathrooms and double parking.

“In working with the floor plan, our interior design for Millard Place features all the luxurious finishes and fixtures found in a modern contemporary home,” says Jean-Pierre Biasol, director of Melbourne-based Biasol Studio.

“It was important for us to consider and maximise storage and ensure natural light flowed through the space. And while there is a focus on beautiful materiality, the design of joinery and equipment integration was equally a focal point to balance open living spaces with practicality and functionality.”

With all the luxuries of a modern home, Millard Place is setting the new standard of what buyers can come to expect from new boutique developments in lifestyle areas.

“Millard Place is a well-crafted resort-like residence that has the convenience of an inner-city location and offers a relaxing environment that’s an escape from the city. This will attract many different buyers in the market,” Andreas says.