Downsizing can be a daunting prospect for many who have grown accustomed to freestanding homes.
However, urban developments like the third stage of The Orchards by Sekisui House – Lumia, offer luxurious options for retirees and empty nesters.
This allows them to reduce space while enhancing their quality of life, making apartment living a more appealing prospect.
What is the luxury downsizing trend?
Lumia is the third stage of the Norwest development and consists of 330 apartments with one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom homes available starting from $800,000.
David Lee, Sales Manager at Sekisui House, said the range of sizes and floorplans available to buyers has been one of its main selling points.
“We have heard from existing buyers that they prefer Lumia’s design features, as a large number of apartments have been designed to provide an additional living space which are known as Max Apartments,” he explained.
A typical two-bedroom ‘Max’ apartment comprises 100sqm of living space while a three-bedroom apartment averages 120sqm.
Lumia’s offerings are perfectly aligned with the evolving luxury downsizing trend, capturing the interests of prospective buyers looking for upscale living alternatives.
Redefining luxury living for downsizers
Designed by award-winning studio Turner, Lumia celebrates the surrounding nature, which once included orange trees growing on the orchards on site.
Green outlooks can be found from floor-to-ceiling windows and large balconies, connecting the residents to their natural habitat.
The generously sized floorplans include large kitchens, a variety of storage spaces, study alcoves, and multipurpose rooms, redefining the misconception of cramped apartment living, according to Mr Lee.
“My discussions with downsizers have primarily been around whether their new home will have enough living and storage spaces – Lumia’s design features have taken this into consideration, offering larger sized apartments.
Additionally, each apartment comes with its own separate storage cage in the basement,” he said.
Upscale amenities for an active and luxe life
Residents of Lumia have access to hotel-style amenities, a level of luxury which is rarely found in freestanding homes.
Some of these future amenities include an outdoor pool and pavilion, modern fitness facilities, indoor and outdoor dining areas, an outdoor cinema, and a community centre.
Interviews with recent buyers highlight their positive experiences transitioning to luxury downsized apartments.
Many have shared how moving into a thoughtfully designed, award-winning development has improved their quality of life.
One buyer expressed, “For years, we were concerned about downsizing because we enjoyed the space in our home.
Lumia exceeded our expectations by providing large, comfortable living areas with exceptional amenities, making the transition smoother than we ever imagined.”
Accessibility to the best of Sydney
The Orchards, located around 30km north-west from Sydney’s CBD, is also well connected to the surrounding suburbs and community.
Sydney’s extended metro makes commuting a breeze for Lumia residents, with a roughly 35-minute ride from Norwest Station to the vibrant Barangaroo Station once the new line is finished.
This means residents can soak in the peace and luxury of Norwest while easily hopping into the city for work, dining, shopping, or exploring Sydney’s exciting spots.
Norwest Marketown is also a 10-minute walk away, where residents can find supermarkets, restaurants, and retail.
The future of downsizing in Australia
David Lee from Sekisui House discusses the shift towards active downsizing and its broader implications for future urban developments.
“Active downsizing goes beyond reducing space; it’s about enhancing lifestyle.
“Properties like Lumia are designed to cater to modern needs, providing luxury, convenience, and community,” he explained.
REA Group data also suggests a growing preference for downsized living among retirees, with a notable increase in demand for luxury apartments offering comprehensive amenities.
Future trends in downsizing are expected to include innovations in apartment design, sustainability initiatives, and evolving community features.
Innovations in these areas are set to redefine urban living for retirees.
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