Local downsizers turned out in force last week at Fanuli's flagship Sydney showroom to enjoy an evening of design inspiration, property insights, and a first look at Fanuli's new Italian furniture collection, co-hosted by leading property developer, Abadeen and Downsizer.com.

Held within Fanuli's contemporary Cremorne gallery, the sold-out event brought together future residents, rightsizers, and design enthusiasts for an intimate evening of conversation, canapés, and thought-provoking discussion on the future of downsizing and design-led apartment living.

Industry luminary Justin Brown, Executive Chairman and Founder of Abadeen, has long been recognised as the leading force behind the evolution of premium downsizer living. Drawing on decades of experience and a sharp understanding of market demand, he has continually refined Abadeen's downsizer offering to meet the real, lived needs of those transitioning from large family homes to low-maintenance luxury.

Presented by Abadeen's Sales Director, Jay Carter, the evening sparked a lively and insightful discussion among a highly engaged audience of downsizers. Their thoughtful questions and genuine curiosity underscored the depth of interest in this market segment, clearly highlighting that continued education and accessible information remain essential for supporting and empowering this growing buyer pool.

Guests previewed Abadeen's premium collection of Lower North Shore residences including KOYO Crows Nest, Hampden Mosman, ENSO Neutral Bay, and Park Residences Cremorne, each designed to meet the growing demand for sophisticated, low-maintenance living in Sydney's most sought-after suburbs.

Keynote speaker Michael Blythe, former Chief Economist at the Commonwealth Bank and now Economist in Residence at Downsizer, shared an optimistic market outlook and highlighted the compelling financial advantages of downsizing.

“Downsizing is not just a lifestyle choice — it's a smart financial decision,” Mr Blythe said.
“In areas like Sydney's North Shore, the opportunity to unlock significant home equity, improve cash flow, and enhance wellbeing later in life is substantial.”

Brent Davidson, Chief Growth Officer at Downsizer, introduced the company's innovative Deposit Bond solution, which enables buyers to secure an off-the-plan property with a minimal upfront cash deposit, an approach simplifying the transition for many downsizers.

“A deposit bond is a safe, secure and cost-effective alternative to using a cash deposit when purchasing an apartment,” he said. “The bond acts as a guarantee of the deposit payment and can be issued based on the net equity in your current home, money in high interest savings accounts, superannuation and more.”

Guests also heard from Fanuli's design specialists, who shared practical styling advice for curating smaller spaces with purpose, proportion and personality.

Abadeen Leads the Charge in the Downsizer Market

Abadeen's Executive Chairman and Founder, Justin Brown said “I'm unbelievably proud to see the Lower North Shore community come together for this fantastic event, held in partnership with our longstanding collaborators at Fanuli and Downsizer.”

“Downsizing is one of the most significant lifestyle shifts we're seeing in the Australian property market — it's not just about moving into a smaller home; it's about moving into the right home. Our buyers are seeking elevated design, functionality, and a sense of belonging, and that's exactly what Abadeen is delivering through our portfolio.”

Mr Brown noted that the downsizer trend has evolved beyond traditional retirement decisions, with a growing number of professionals and active couples choosing to rightsize earlier for lifestyle, financial and wellbeing benefits.

“We're seeing strong demand from homeowners aged 50–70 who want to simplify their lives without compromising on quality or location,” he added. “That's driving new benchmarks for design and amenity across the North Shore.”

How to Downsize with Confidence: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

1. Decide to Downsize
   Choosing to move from a large family home to a more manageable space often stems from a desire to simplify life, reduce maintenance, and unlock home equity for the future.
2. Search for the Right Property
   Consider lifestyle, accessibility, and design. Platforms such as Downsizer.com help buyers explore premium off-the-plan apartments suited to a low-maintenance lifestyle.
3. Secure Your New Home Off-the-Plan
   Eligible downsizers can access the Deposit Bond program through Downsizer.com, signing contracts and planning their move while their new apartment is under construction.
4. Sell the Family Home (Later in the Process)
   Most downsizers wait until their new residence nears completion before selling, allowing time to prepare, declutter, and stage the property for maximum value.
5. Reimagine the Interior
   Measure, plan, and invest in furniture suited to your new home's scale. Many purchasers take the opportunity to refresh their space with fit-for-purpose luxury — curated pieces from Fanuli being a popular choice.

Abadeen's Newly Completed KOYO & ENSO: The Ideal Downsizer Destinations

Designed by Koichi Takada Architects, KOYO Crows Nest and ENSO Neutral Bay embody the future of design-led downsizing — elegant, efficient and effortlessly liveable.

Highlights include:

• Low-maintenance, architecturally designed apartments
• Lift access and ground-floor garden options
• Premium finishes and energy-efficient appliances
• Resident-only community spaces like games rooms & rooftop entertaining
• Proximity to cafés, restaurants, shops, and parks

Only a handful of three-bedroom residences remain, including a spectacular penthouse in both newly completed boutique developments.