The world of property is a game with its own rules, and while some may bend or break them, the typical journey often involves starting small with an apartment, growing into a family home or two, and then, as the kids grow up and move out, it's time to downsize. But here's where it gets interesting: even the rich and famous follow this path, albeit with a touch of glamour and style. So, let's take a look at some of Australia's celebrities who have embraced the downsizing trend, and perhaps we can find some inspiration for our own journeys.
Downsizing in Style: 10 Aussie Celebrities Lead the Way
Kerri-Anne Kennerley: The iconic television host, Kerri-Anne, decided to downsize to an apartment in the prestigious Gladswood Gardens, Double Bay. She sold her large Woollahra house, bought with her late husband John, for a whopping $22 million. John's love for train sets and the sprawling home's maintenance eventually led to their decision to downsize. Kerri-Anne's new home is pet-friendly, a key requirement after the sad passing of her golden retriever, Digger.
Kylie Minogue: Pop princess Kylie Minogue made headlines when she sold her West London home for over $12 million, a $1.5 million profit. She then downsized to a four-bedroom home in Melbourne's eastern suburbs, a move that saved her around $4 million. Her new home boasts an outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and even a veggie patch, offering a cozy and sustainable lifestyle.
Cate Blanchett: Award-winning actress and producer Cate Blanchett and her husband, playwright Andrew Upton, showcase the unique ability of the super-rich to downsize and then upsize. They sold their historic Hunters Hill mansion for a record-breaking $18 million and downsized to an apartment in The Astor, a Sydney CBD treasure. However, their journey didn't stop there; they later moved to a sprawling 1890s manor in the UK countryside, once owned by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Lisa Wilkinson: The media power couple, Lisa Wilkinson and her husband, author Peter FitzSimons, sold their huge Cremorne home and downsized to a luxurious Mosman penthouse. With their children grown and flown, they no longer needed the five-bedroom estate and now enjoy a more intimate four-bedroom space with stunning city views and a rooftop terrace.
Warwick Ross: Award-winning film producer Warwick Ross sold his Bellevue Hill mansion for close to $50 million and downsized to a glamorous Woollahra residence. His new home, designed by acclaimed architect Michael Suttor, offers a low-maintenance lifestyle compared to his previous Hollywood-style pool and large grounds.
Stephen Liebowitz: The rag trader, Stephen Liebowitz, sold his Point Piper mansion for $55 million and moved to a penthouse in Double Bay. His new home, designed by Luigi Rosselli, offers a more manageable lifestyle with a private rooftop plunge pool and stunning harbor views.
Sue Ingham: The wife of the late Ingham chicken billionaire, Jack Ingham, sold her luxury penthouse in Point Piper for $29.5 million and moved to a four-bedroom penthouse in the nearby Piper development. Sue's new home offers open-plan living, a wine cellar, and incredible harbor views from the terrace.
Greg Duncan: Greg Duncan, former owner of the luxury car dealership Trivett, and his wife, Glenda, are moving into Sue Ingham's former home. Their new residence, designed by Alec Tzannes, offers a low-maintenance lifestyle with direct access to Seven Shillings Beach and a private pool overlooking the harbor.
Bill Roney: Former rugby legend Bill Roney and his wife, Sara, faced some challenges when downsizing. They bought a new apartment in the Ode development in Double Bay but had to accept a lower price for their Point Piper mansion. Nonetheless, their new home offers a modern and luxurious lifestyle with a rooftop terrace and plunge pool.
Steve and Carol Moss: Rag traders Steven and Carol Moss sold their Scottish baronial mansion, Uig Lodge, for a record $130 million. After an 18-month search, they found their "forever home" in a Bellevue Hill residence. Their new home, designed by Anthony Tzaneros, offers elegant living spaces and an infinity pool.
These celebrities' downsizing journeys showcase the diverse paths one can take when it comes to property. It's a reminder that even the rich and famous face the same decisions and challenges, but with a touch of glamour. So, what do you think? Are you inspired by these downsizing stories? Do you agree that sometimes less is more? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
