ellivo (Studio Journal)

09.10.2025 (The Upside of Downsizing)

The Upside of Downsizing: Priorities + Desires

Study 2. Key Priorities and Desired Features in New Homes

Downsizers are discerning, with clear preferences for the type of dwelling and its internal features and amenities.

Key priorities and desires:

Preferred Dwelling Types:

• • Boutique Apartment Complex (less than 10 units) is highly preferred by some, avoiding high-rise buildings. i.e. Apartment or Townhouse
  • Some may upsize living space for a period (e.g. 60 – 75 years old) to accommodate visitors and a garden, before considering smaller, more assisted retirement living later

Layout & Size:

• • One-level living is crucial, especially for ageing and mobility
  • Typically, 2 or 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms are desired with a generously sized master bedroom
    • • A specific desire for the master bedroom to be 500mm longer to allow for furniture like tall drawer units or a bench seat at the foot of the bed, beyond just mirrored robes and hanging space
  • Dual living areas are a priority for some
  • Open plan design is desired

Interior Features & Finishes:

• • Kitchen:
    • • Good size kitchen with lots of cupboard and bench space is very important, especially for those who want to accommodate entertaining
      • A butler’s pantry is a highly desired feature for some
      • Modern kitchen
  • Laundry: A separate laundry is a non-negotiable for some, as many units combine the bathroom and laundry
  • Ceilings: Higher ceilings (e.g. 2.7m) are a definite plus in smaller apartments
  • Openings: Wide opening to the veranda from the lounge and bedroom is appreciated
  • Flooring: Engineered timber flooring is liked
  • Power Points: A request for additional power points everywhere, as there often aren’t enough originally
  • Wardrobes: Mirrored sliding doors to wardrobes in bedrooms are liked
  • Ventilation: Acknowledgment of no natural ventilation in bathrooms, but manageable
  • Overall Aesthetic: Clean lines, open living, and luxury fittings are desired

Storage Solutions:

• • Ample storage space is a critical consideration
  • Specific needs include storage for linen, towels, bulky items (like suitcases, garden tools, bikes, car washing equipment), and shelving in the garage area
  • Finding a place for infrequently used items, like Christmas decorations, can be a challenge

Downsizers want homes that stay organised, with smart storage and convenient parking, double garages and visitor parking, these priorities included:

Parking:

• • Parking for 2 vehicles is a priority
  • Visitors parking within the complex is also important

Balconies with views, space to entertain, and a touch of greenery offer a sense of openness and calm, without stepping beyond the front door.

Outdoor Space:

• • A balcony with a view is a priority
  • Room for outdoor entertaining. i.e. balcony or terrace
  • A small garden or room for a garden is sometimes desired