Couple find their own piece of Eden

Gold Coast Bulletin | 13 January 2024

Gold Coast downsizers are embracing townhouse living like never before, looking for their own piece of beachside luxury living without compromising on space or location.

After more than 40 years in Palm Beach, downsizer couple Mick and Karen Havenaar are about to move into a high-end townhouse project in Tugun, The Eden Collection, that is nearing completion.

“We have only owned houses, so this will be our very first time living in a townhouse,” Mr Havenaar said.

“We were looking to downsize, but still be close to the beach and The Eden Collection will provide us with an amazing new lifestyle with all the modern amenities.”

The couple has purchased one of only five luxury villas in The Eden Collection, consisting of three and four-bedroom homes offering a northern frontage to parklands and a short walk to the beach.

Each townhouse features multiple living areas, polished concrete floors, stone benchtops and luxury appliances with outdoor areas and extensive green landscaping.

CBRE Residential senior director Nicholas Clydsdale said despite the current housing crisis and a focus on apartment living, luxury townhouse projects were an extremely popular choice for downsizers.

Mr Clydsdale said the southern Gold Coast in particular was experiencing a population boom from downsizers wanting a traditional beach lifestyle with a more laid-back atmosphere.

“The lifestyle is oriented around the naturally beautiful coastal geography that defines the area,” he said.

“It still maintains its surf village vibe which is a different feel to living more centrally on the Gold Coast.”

Jon Quayle, director of The Eden Collection developer Chapter Two, said the homes were tailored for downsizers transitioning to low-maintenance living.

“With plenty of space and simple yet refined interiors, The Eden Collection delivers a boutique lifestyle alternative to large unit complexes,” he said.