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$2 billion lotto win tears family apart

<p>A man who won one of the biggest lottery jackpots in American history has been accused of cutting his family out of their promised share after winning $2 billion (AUD) in the Mega Millions jackpot. </p> <p>The unidentified man has been in a legal battle with his daughter’s mum since November, after he accused her of violating a nondisclosure agreement by telling the rest of the family about his fortune before their daughter's 18th birthday in 2032, according to the Independent. </p> <p>He bought the winning ticket in Lebanon, Maine on January 13 2023. </p> <p>The mum – identified by a pseudonym, Sara Smith – claimed that he was the one who told his family about his lotto winnings, not her. </p> <p>The man's father supported Smith's claim and said that his son told him about the win and all the things he planned to do with his new-found fortune, which he collected through an LLC in a lump sum of over $750 million. </p> <p>“February or March of 2023, my son came to my house … and informed me and my wife that he won a large amount of money in the Maine State Lottery,” his father wrote in new court documents. </p> <p>“I understand that my son has stated that he told me nothing about his money ‘other than the simple fact that I had won’,” the dad wrote. “That is not true.”</p> <p>He also claimed that he didn't ask his son for any money, but the lotto-winner allegedly made a bunch of promises, including building his dad a garage to fix up old cars, buying his childhood home, setting up a million-dollar trust fund and funding future medical expenses for his dad and stepmum.</p> <p>The lotto-winner also allegedly demanded his father to not talk to Smith. </p> <p>"I told him … ‘You are not the son I knew’,” his dad wrote in the filing.</p> <p>“He got angry, calling me a ‘dictator’ and an ‘a**ehole’. I have not heard from my son since, and he has not done any of [the] things he promised.”</p> <p>The half-billionaire refuted his dad and Smith's claims. </p> <p>“I made the mistake of telling my father that I had won the lottery without having him sign a confidentiality agreement,” he wrote. </p> <p>“Our relationship deteriorated quickly thereafter,” he continued.</p> <p>“I did not tell him what I was doing with my money, how I was going to benefit my daughter, or any facts other than the simple fact that I had won.” </p> <p>He also accused his ex-partner of trying to reveal his identity to the world and that she wrongly accused him of trying to kidnap their daughter after he refused to pay for her and her new boyfriend's vacation. </p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p> <p> </p>

Legal

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Husband and wife with dementia reunite after 30 years apart

<p>A former husband and wife with dementia have been reunited after 30 years apart when they moved into the same care home. </p> <p>Nancy, 86, and Stan, 91, were first married in 1957 in Edinburgh, despite their parents "forbidding" their romance and not approving of their union. </p> <p>The couple went on to have three children and lived happily, until Nancy was nearly killed by a brain haemorrhage when she was in her mid-50s. </p> <p>Nancy had to undergo life-altering surgery and a lengthy recovery time, which ultimately led to the downfall of her relationship with Stan and they filed for divorce. </p> <p>After their split, Stan met another woman when he was in his 70s, while Nancy never had another romance. </p> <p>When Nancy and Stan entered their 80s, they both began to show signs of dementia and could no longer care for themselves. </p> <p>Around Christmas time last year, their daughter Karen made the decision to put her father Stan, who suffered a fall while being cared for in Scotland, in the same home as Nancy, which is where she captured the heartwarming footage of them being reunited.</p> <p>In the clip, Nancy tells Stan he is "not bad looking for his age", while her ex-husband replies, "I recognise your face but I couldn't place who it was".</p> <p>The couple then agree to go on a date together and have a cup of tea, before having a kiss for "old time's sake."</p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; caret-color: #323338; color: #323338; font-family: Figtree, Roboto, 'Noto Sans Hebrew', 'Noto Kufi Arabic', 'Noto Sans JP', sans-serif; outline: currentcolor !important;">The video was posted to TikTok by Karen's daughter Sarah-Ashleigh, who spoke to the <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13196325/Heartwarming-moment-former-husband-wife-dementia-reunited-care-home-30-years-apart.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a></em> about the family's decision to put both Nancy and Stan in the same care home. </p> <div class="embed" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: currentcolor !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; border-style: none; vertical-align: baseline; width: 600px; max-width: 100%; outline: currentcolor !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7341697620181519648&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40sarahashleighflorals%2Fvideo%2F7341697620181519648&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign-useast2a.tiktokcdn.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-useast2a-p-0037-euttp%2F4189e3105ed04778a3de6a83a40077b6_1709372224%3Fx-expires%3D1712448000%26x-signature%3DcpIHZABQ%252FDnAqGU7bJYeryVnJlU%253D&key=59e3ae3acaa649a5a98672932445e203&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> <p>"We were so worried how this would go. It's so good to see them be friends again," she said.</p> <p>"Dementia is a horrible disease, but it's moments like this which we really just hold on to."</p> <p>"Granny struggles a bit more in general and gets anxious and confused but I think having someone there who she knows has done wonders for her."</p> <p>"She's always looking for him (even when he's right next to her) and they sit together a lot and bicker like the married couple they used to be."</p> <p>"Love might not be the same kind of love forever, it is a shape shifter, but it never leaves."</p> <p>"Their marriage didn't last forever but just seeing them have a friendship again just shows that love never dies."</p> <p><em>Image credits: TikTok</em></p>

Caring

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“Meant to be”: Twins give birth just 22 minutes apart

<p dir="ltr">Just days after sharing their 33rd birthday, twin sisters Nicole and Renee Baillie have given birth on the same day. </p> <p dir="ltr">The women, from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, were shocked when they fell pregnant around the same time, with their due dates just two weeks apart. </p> <p dir="ltr">“We magically fell pregnant at the same time, which was crazy,” Nicole told <em><a href="https://7news.com.au/news/sunshine-coast-twins-give-birth-just-22-minutes-apart--c-13517897">7News</a></em>. </p> <p dir="ltr">Nicole was already at the hospital ready to give birth to her baby when Renee went into labour early. </p> <p dir="ltr">Renee rushed to the hospital just in time to give birth in the hospital foyer,  welcoming a baby girl named Ruby.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I was just about to have a bath when I heard someone had a baby in the corridor,” Nicole said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I couldn’t believe it,” Renee said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When I got here, into this room after we had (the baby), I wasn’t sure how far along Nicole was. I didn’t want her (Nicole) to know I’d already had my baby, just in case it, like, threw her off.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Renee soon found out Nicole had given birth to a baby boy, named Zavian, only 22 minutes earlier.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I thought I had a few days left, but they decided they wanted to be born on the same day,” Renee said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It was just meant to be, and I think everyone has just manifested this happening,” Nicole said.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: 7News</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Rebel Wilson shows off the inside of her INSANE Bondi Beach apartment

<p>When you're a superstar like Rebel Wilson, directing and starring in a movie can be tough. But, as the <em>Pitch Perfect</em> actress revealed recently, it can be a whole lot easier when you have Airbnb in your corner, providing you with a luxurious penthouse that feels like a working holiday.</p> <p>Rebel, who is currently in Sydney to make her directorial debut in the film <em>The Deb</em>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CyZRuXyvpUX/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">took to Instagram</a> to showcase the stunning Bondi penthouse she's been staying in with her one-year-old daughter Royce and fiancée Ramona Agruma. And while the jaw-dropping views of Bondi Beach are nothing to scoff at, what really stood out was the repeated shout-outs to Airbnb for "hooking me up".</p> <p>In a series of photos that would make any Instagram influencer jealous, Rebel flaunted the opulent penthouse with 360-degree views of the iconic beach. If that's not enough to make you green with envy, there's also an infinity swimming pool and a barbecue area that screams "I'm on a working vacation".</p> <p>Rebel's fiancée, Ramona, also joined in on the Instagram love, taking to the comment section to thank Airbnb. (Because when Airbnb provides you with a penthouse that oozes luxury, gratitude is really the <em>least </em>you can do.)</p> <p>Initially, Rebel didn't specify if this was a sponsored post. But after <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/celebrity-photos/inside-stunning-bondi-penthouse-rebel-wilson-has-been-staying-in/news-story/1fe2e7f9ea8ad9e0c935a32d9a0f58a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au approached Airbnb</a> for a comment, she added the magic letters "ad" to her caption. Well, it seems even celebrities have to adhere to the rules of disclosure – who knew?</p> <p>Rebel's stay in this Bondi Beach haven comes as she takes a break from her usual LA-based lifestyle. She recently <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/property/real-estate/rebel-wilson-lists-home-and-shares-her-favourite-feature" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listed her primary Sydney Harbour home</a> for a cool $9 million, which sold for an undisclosed sum in June. She said, "There's something special about this house, its location, its vibe," before explaining that she was working overseas and wanted someone else to appreciate it. </p> <p>In addition to her Australian properties, Rebel also owns a place in London. At least, she told <em>The Sun</em> in 2021 that she "bought a place" there, and then later confirmed her relocation to the British capital in early 2022. It seems like Rebel is collecting homes like some people collect stamps or vintage action figures.</p> <p>Of course, she also has a mansion in the celebrity mecca of Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles, which she acquired in 2016. And let's not forget her apartment in New York's swanky Tribeca neighbourhood, which she purchased in 2017. All in all, it appears that Rebel is an international property mogul, and her recent Bondi Beach getaway sponsored by Airbnb is just another entry in her portfolio of luxurious abodes.</p> <p>So, the next time you find yourself gazing out of your office window at a drab cityscape, remember that Rebel is out there living her best life in a Bondi penthouse with a pool and breathtaking views, thanks to Airbnb. Who knew directing a movie could be so relaxing?</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Double murder investigation launched into elderly couple who died a year apart

<p>Detectives are treating the deaths of Brenda and Lynton Anderson, both aged 94, as a double murder, with the main suspect believed to be someone close to the victims. The couple, who were great-grandparents, passed away a year apart under suspicious circumstances.</p> <p>Speaking at a press conference, Detective Inspector Mark McEachern revealed that both deaths were deliberate acts carried out by the same person, who had a close relationship with the Andersons.</p> <p>"Both were deliberately murdered by the same person who was known and close to both of them," Detective Inspector Mark McEachern told reporters.</p> <p>The suspicions arose due to similarities and irregularities found in the toxicology reports of the deceased couple. It was discovered that the presence of certain medications in their systems was unexplained and raised concerns.</p> <p>"The medication that was in there should not have been there, there was no reason for the medication to have been in their system and that's raised concerns in respect of both deaths," McEachern said.</p> <p>Brenda Anderson's demise initially occurred while she was receiving medical treatment at Noarlunga Hospital in March of the previous year. As her condition worsened, she was transferred to Flinders Medical Centre, where she eventually passed away.</p> <p>During the coronial investigation process, her hospital death came under scrutiny when significant abnormalities were found in the toxicology results. After ruling out any innocent explanation for these irregularities, the investigation turned its focus to the possibility of foul play by a third party known to Mrs. Anderson. The police have expressed confidence in the level of care provided by both hospitals.</p> <p>"Mrs Anderson's hospital death was identified during the coronial investigation process after toxicology results gave significant rise for concern.</p> <p>"When an innocent explanation for toxicology abnormalities was eliminated, the possibility Mrs Anderson's death being a deliberate act by another party became the primary subject of the investigation.</p> <p>"It is believed Mrs Anderson was killed by a person known to her and in close enough relationship to have been visiting her while she was in hospital.</p> <p>"Police have no concerns about the level of care in either hospital, which was exemplary," <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">McEachern</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> said.</span></p> <p>In the case of Lynton Anderson, he was discovered unconscious at his residence in Hackham by a caregiver on April 30. He was immediately transported to Flinders Medical Centre by SA Ambulance but succumbed to his condition the following day.</p> <p>Detectives also became suspicious of the toxicology results for Lynton after analysing Brenda's case. However, they have ruled out the involvement of external carers in his death. The police have identified a suspect but declined to provide further details at this stage of the investigation.</p> <p>Authorities are now urging anyone who had contact with the Anderson couple and possesses information related to their deaths and the events leading up to them to come forward. They are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who may have knowledge of any prescribed or non-prescribed medications used by the couple or discussed by them.</p> <p>The community has been left shocked and saddened by the tragic deaths of Brenda and Lynton Anderson. As the investigation into these distressing circumstances unfolds, the hope is that justice will be served and the truth behind these untimely losses will be revealed.</p> <p><em>Images: SA Police</em></p>

Legal

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Could sleeping separately save your relationship?

<p>Admit you're sleeping in a separate room to your partner and you may as well have said your relationship is on the rocks, or you're having an affair. That's the response most couples get when they reveal they sleep apart.</p> <p>It's far from the norm, yet a recent survey of nearly 3000 Australians by medical devices company CPAP found that 20 per cent of respondents spent between three and seven nights a week in separate bedrooms because of their or their partner's sleep problems.</p> <p>Far from being something that solo sleepers need to be ashamed of, scientific research into sleep paints a convincing picture for separate beds. In her new book, <em>Sleeping Apart Not Falling Apart</em>, author Jennifer Adams (herself a solo sleeper) writes that the benefits of snoozing alone are many: "If you've suffered prolonged sleep deprivation, sleeping apart is good for your mental and physical health – and good for the health of your relationship."</p> <p>Prolonged sleep deprivation can lead to high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, memory loss, premature ageing, increased risk of obesity, heart disease and diabetes. It also lowers testosterone, which interferes with sexual desire.</p> <p>Adams, 47, from Brisbane, decided to go it alone after finding that her boyfriend (now husband) was a chronic snorer. It was exacerbated by his being an "early to rise, early to bed" type, while she's a night owl. After one week of sharing, they went their separate ways and haven't looked back. Of the reasons driving couples to separate beds, she explains, snoring tops the list. The partner of the typical snorer is robbed of 49 precious minutes' sleep nightly, according to a 2005 US National Sleep Foundation poll.</p> <p>Other complaints include one partner being whacked by the other during energetic dreams, noisy toilet trips (men go twice as often as females at night), tossing and turning (we all move about 20 times a night, but men more than women), heavy breathers, different bedtimes and different body-temperature needs (women frequently use partners as human hot-water bottles).</p> <p>Because of the emphasis on bed-sharing as a barometer of a happy relationship, separate sleepers will often go to great lengths to hide their sleeping arrangements from others, even presenting their nightly sanctuary as a "spare room" where the relatives crash. Yet having separate beds can be a marriage saver if both partners wake up refreshed and rested. Adams found from her interviews that far from cruelling a couple's sex life, separate beds could actually spice it up.</p> <p>"Our decision to sleep apart has solidified our relationship. If one of us wants sex, we go to the other person's room, and because we know we're not going to see each other in bed at night, we're more purposeful about intimacy," she says. "Couples I interviewed spoke about making sure sex happened, as they knew the importance of it in their relationship. Separate beds have, for many, brought back creativity and excitement to their sex lives."</p> <p>One solo sleeper Adams interviewed put it this way: "Separate rooms has made our sex lives more exciting because we visit each other's rooms and I feel less 'on tap'."</p> <p>Dr David Cunnington, a sleep physician at the Melbourne Sleep Disorders Centre, recommends separate beds to many of his patients who have sleep-related issues such as insomnia, snoring and different body clocks. "For light sleepers and couples who have different sleep behaviours and needs, separate beds are a lifesaver. It's also more considerate and compassionate to their partner if they sleep in another room."</p> <p>John, a 58-year-old builder married for 30 years, is a solo sleeper because his wife works shifts as a night-time supermarket manager. "Margaret was getting home at 2am and coming to bed at 4.30am. She complained that I thrashed around and snored. We agreed that she moved to the downstairs bedroom and we're both happy."</p> <p>Mary, 74, had to consider separate beds from day one of her marriage. "In those days, you didn't 'try before you buy' and on our first night together on honeymoon, I had one quarter of the bed and he had the rest, taking the blanket with him," she says. "He also snored loudly, while I was a light sleeper."</p> <p>Adams admits sleeping separately isn't for everyone. "But done well, with both partners agreeing to the terms, it helps the relationship flourish ... and they get great sleep to keep them functioning."</p> <p>Jennifer Adams' book <em>Sleeping Apart Not Falling Apart</em> is published by Finch.</p> <p>Tips for sweeter dreams</p> <ul> <li>If you're not ready for twin beds, consider small changes: the late reader could read in the lounge room or buy an e-reader (it's quieter than turning pages); or try sleeping on a mattress with two different firmness levels.</li> <li>Make verbal contracts with your partner: for example, after the second time their snoring wakes you, you're allowed to wake them.</li> <li>Solo sleepers need to work hard to maintain intimacy: invite your partner to your room for a date night – with benefits!</li> </ul> <p><em>First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></a>.</em></p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Relationships

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Chris Hemsworth eyeing out Melbourne apartment development

<p>Aussie actor Chris Hemsworth has been spotted checking out a potential Melbourne bolthole, where ex-Socceroo Harry Kewell could be his neighbour.</p> <p>According to<em> The Herald Sun</em>, the Hollywood great was seen eyeing out the construction site of the 103 Beach St, Port Melbourne, apartment development, set to be completed in September 2024.</p> <p>While he hasn’t purchased anything yet, it is understood that Hemsworth is working with a representative to inspect properties for his first Victorian base.</p> <p>The Marvel star is originally from Melbourne and spent his adolescence in Phillip Island but has no known property assets in the state.</p> <p>He and his wife Elsa Pataky currently own an incredible $30 million mansion in Byron Bay, boasting a gym, steam room, media room, games room and 50m rooftop infinity pool with ocean views.</p> <p>Hemsworth is also an avid Bulldogs supporter and has been seen in the past watching his AFL team play at Marvel Stadium.</p> <p>It comes after about a third of the luxury Beach St apartments were swiftly taken from the plan, with those remaining available ranging from $2.7 million up to $18.5m for the penthouse suites.</p> <p>Industry sources claim former Socceroo and Liverpool player Kewell has also engaged a buyer’s agent from Sydney to inquire about the project.</p> <p>Marshall White Projects director Leonard Teplin declined to comment on the identities of prospective buyers but revealed the complex had attracted interest from “some pretty high-profile people” across Australia, including some well-known business personalities who have already purchased.</p> <p>“It’s one of the more popular apartment projects we’ve had,” he said.</p> <p>“The day we went live there were over 400 registrations of interest … and in the first 72 hours it had 83,000 (website) impressions, which is massive.”</p> <p><em>Image credit: Getty / Realestate.com.au</em></p>

Real Estate

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Red Symons' ex-wife Elly lists luxe apartment in award-winning Fitzroy House

<p>Australian-Greek community leader Elly Symons has listed her lavish apartment inside the award-winning Fitzroy House complex.</p> <p>Symons was married to TV and radio personality Red Symons for over 25 years before they split in 2016, with their former Fitzroy North home selling for a then-suburb record of $5 million in 2018.</p> <p>She is actively involved in the Australian-Greek community, including her role as vice president of the Australian Parthenon Committee. She co-founded the Acropolis Research Group, which focuses on the restoration of Ancient Greek cultural artefacts.</p> <p>The 2/75 Argyle Street, Fitzroy property has been Symons’ home for the past three years after purchasing it for $1.375m in 2020, according to CoreLogic records.</p> <p>The luxe apartment is now on the market with a price guide of $1.55m-$1.65m ahead of its auction on May 13.</p> <p>It has two bedrooms and is part of architectural firm Piccolo’s development of the heritage-listed corner site known as Fitzroy House, in association with famed architects Jackson Clements Burrows and interior designer Hecker Guthrie, which won a gold award at the 2022 Melbourne Design Awards.</p> <p>The home features marble and oak finishes, with two modern bathrooms including a “resort-style” ensuite and a freestanding bathtub. The kitchen showcases Gaggenau appliances and marble benchtops.</p> <p>Jellis Craig Fitzroy partner Charles Atkins declined to comment on the vendor but shared the home had a “fantastic feel” with a high-standard design.</p> <p>“It has a fabulous terrace facing west which is generous in its proportions,” Atkins said.</p> <p>He added that the listing had attracted interest from several downsizers seeking a place with convenience and lifestyle aspects, as well as a handful of young professionals.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Getty/Realestate.com.au</em></p>

Real Estate

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Bob Hawke’s widow cops loss on luxury apartment

<p dir="ltr">Blanche d’Alpuget, the widow of former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, has offloaded her luxury apartment in the heart of Sydney’s CBD after offering a sizable discount.</p> <p dir="ltr">With an initial price guide of $4.3-4.5 million in July, the guide was reportedly adjusted to $4.2 million in September before eventually selling for an unconfirmed $3.73 million, per <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/news/bob-hawkes-widow-blanche-dalpuget-sells-372m-luxury-pad-in-the-one30-hyde-park-sydney/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>realestate.com.au</em></a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">D’Alpuget’s two-bedroom apartment in the One30 Hyde Park tower was sold after she switched listing agents from Ray White to <a href="https://boutiquepropertyagents.com/property/1403-130-elizabeth-street-sydney-nsw-2000/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boutique Property Agents</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The author and journalist moved in after she and Hawke settled on it in March 2019 and sold their waterfront property in Northbridge.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 131-square-metre apartment was originally three bedrooms before being reconfigured, and boasts views of Hyde Park and Sydney Harbour.</p> <p dir="ltr">After the apartment’s sale, d’Alpuget will be moving to the apartment tower next door, having spent $4.6 million on another apartment.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-99872eb3-7fff-9de9-27b3-848aa242d694"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty Images / Boutique Property Agents</em></p>

Real Estate

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“The gate is a no”: Apartment security gate draws ire online

<p dir="ltr">While security gates are meant to be secure, one installed at a property in the UK has left many questioning just how effective it will be.</p> <p dir="ltr">A photo shared by the account Design Fails shows a security gate that seems fully functional at first glance, but includes a glaring design flaw.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-e66f96fc-7fff-e187-a401-03dcf7d48f27"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Though it has locks and an intercom panel, the design of the gate itself lends it to being a handy ladder that could be used to get inside.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">security gate that doubles as a ladder <a href="https://t.co/TQWmZBiyc7">pic.twitter.com/TQWmZBiyc7</a></p> <p>— Design Fails (@epicdesignfails) <a href="https://twitter.com/epicdesignfails/status/1587076092791328768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“Security gate that doubles as a ladder,” the photo caption read, with the post soon attracting over 33,000 likes, over 6,000 shares and plenty of comments pointing out its fundamental flaw.</p> <p dir="ltr">“OMG What on mother Earth was the designer’s thought doing that,” one person commented.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The gym I never thought I needed. I’d purposefully forget my access card,” another joked.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Whoever designed this gate heaven is waiting for her/him,” a third shared.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So the thieves can climb over the gate 😑,” one user noted.</p> <p dir="ltr">While some tried to defend the design by pointing out that it could be electrified, others were quick to point out the flaws in that argument too.</p> <p dir="ltr">“If its (sic) electric and still has a key, thats weird. To be a gate and a ladder, while not thinking the violator can climb over the gate too is weird. Saying its electrical and not keeping in mind that its on the street is weird. Only turning it on at night is weird,” one person clarified.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The gate is a no.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-e05cfff1-7fff-fca4-5c90-a84d44232244"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Twitter</em></p>

Real Estate

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Aussie speedster Steven Bradbury sells luxe apartment

<p dir="ltr">Aussie Olympian Steven Bradbury has sold his beachside investment apartment in Queensland after holding onto it for over a decade.</p> <p dir="ltr">The gold medallist skater listed the four-bedroom ground-floor apartment in the coastal suburb of Kings Beach in Caloundra earlier this year and has gone on to offload the flat for an undisclosed price.</p> <p dir="ltr">After 11 years of owning the apartment, Bradbury initially <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/unit-2-kings-palazzo-4-6-orvieto-terrace-kings-beach-qld-4551-2017750581" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listed</a> the home for $2 million in May before agents Danelle Wiseman and Jonathan Pattinson of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate revised the price to $1.8 million, per <em><a href="https://www.smh.com.au/property/news/steven-bradbury-times-his-run-perfectly-with-kings-beach-pad-20220517-p5am5r.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sydney Morning Herald</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Even with the reduction, Bradbury’s potential earnings were more than double the amount his investment company, Pricefinder, paid in 2011.</p> <p dir="ltr">Prior to its sale on August 16, the home was maintained as a weekender and rental with an asking price of $660 a week in rent.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sitting just metres aware from the surf of King’s Beach, the 111-square-metre flat includes plenty of luxe amenities, such as its two courtyards - with one on each floor - timber herringbone hard floors in the living areas, and a large granite waterfall bench in the well-appointed kitchen.</p> <p dir="ltr">The flat also has access to the amenities offered by the Kings Palazzo complex, including a pool and BBQ area shared with just 11 other apartments.</p> <p dir="ltr">Bradbury, a four-time Olympian, shot to fame after his unlikely win at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games, getting through the semi-final and earning gold in the final after his competitors all crashed in the final seconds.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite trailing behind them all, Bradbury was able to skate into first place, giving rise to the phrase “doing a Bradbury” for winning as an underdog.</p> <p dir="ltr">Earlier this year, Bradbury took to Instagram to reflect on that fateful win 20 years later.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’ll always be seen as an overnight success, but it took me many years of sweat, tears and plenty of blood to get there and I’ll always appreciate those who helped me and backed me against the odds,” he <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CaBaljsvBl5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wrote</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Courage, belief, determination and a little luck, all helped me to be the original #lastmanstanding, and now it’s fantastic to see our next generation of @ausolympicteam legends taking our Winter Olympic Dream into the future!”</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-414adfac-7fff-b93d-0e1b-4618063616c7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: @stevenbradburyofficial (Instagram) / Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate</em></p>

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"This is the devil's work!": Nun pulls apart female models sharing a kiss

<p dir="ltr">A shocked nun caused quite a stir in the streets of Italy when she pulled away two female models who were kissing for a photoshoot.</p> <p dir="ltr">The nun was dressed in a white habit and rushed to stop Serena de Ferrari and Briton Kyshan Wilson who had locked lips in a Naples backstreet as they posed for a photo for Not Yet magazine.</p> <p dir="ltr">“What are you doing? This is the devil's work,” the nun shouted at them as they giggled.</p> <p dir="ltr">She looked around at the cameramen and crossed herself before saying: “Jesus, Joseph and Mary”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Make up artist Roberta Mastalia, who was on the shoot, said they had to ask the nun to leave thinking she was just joking.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We were on location in the Spanish Quarter in Naples, in a little sidestreet with the two models when all of a sudden the nun walked past,” he said, <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11027633/Italian-nun-splits-two-female-models-kissing-photoshoot-calling-devils-work.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Mail</a> reported.</p> <p dir="ltr">“She asked us if we had been to Mass that day and when we said 'No' she started blaming young people for Coronavirus and then she saw the two models posing up ready to kiss and that's when she ran forward to split them up.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Our first reaction was we were all stunned. They took it as a bit of a joke and you can see from the video the two girls are laughing.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We then had to ask the nun to leave as we explained we had work to do and she slowly walked off.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Both Serena and Briton shared clips of the incident to their social media with the caption “God doesn’t love LGBT”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Local priest Father Salvatore Giuliano The Church is constantly updating its views but some of the older generation have not yet accepted it.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Swapping stamp duty for land tax would push down house prices but push up apartment prices, new modelling finds

<p>In the state budget, NSW have announced a switch from stamp duty to <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/nsw-to-phase-out-stamp-duty-introduce-property-tax-20220612-p5at3p.html">land tax</a>.</p> <p>It will become the second Australian jurisdiction to do so, with the ACT halfway through a <a href="https://www.treasury.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/1618407/cops-final-report.pdf">20-year</a> switchover.</p> <p>Homebuyers who accept the offer will be taxed annually on the value of their land, instead of hit with an upfront fee (that averaged $50,000 for Sydney in 2018) when they buy.</p> <p>Once they have accepted, their property will be out of the stamp duty system and subject only to land tax for future owners.</p> <p>It’s become conventional wisdom to say that such a revenue-neutral switch would <a href="https://www.treasury.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-10/FFR%20Final%20Report%20-%20200828%20%281%29.pdf">boost productivity</a>.</p> <p>Why? Moving house sets in motion a chain of transactions: residents engage lawyers to transfer titles, real estate agents to manage the property sale, removalists to transport possessions, and so on.</p> <p>Stamp duties compound these costs, by adding a significant, additional layer of taxation, which in some states makes up 80% of the total cost of moving house.</p> <p>Land tax, in contrast, is one of the least-damaging taxes. It encourages land owners to put land to its <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/publication/understanding-the-economy-wide-efficiency-and-incidence-of-major-australian-taxes">highest-value use</a>.</p> <p>In a landmark <a href="https://www.copsmodels.com/ftp/workpapr/g-330.pdf">modelling exercise</a> completed this month, my team at the Victoria University Centre of Policy Studies finds that the productivity gains are large by the standards of tax swaps.</p> <p>After 20 years, replacing stamp duty with a land tax would boost national income by A$0.30 for each dollar of revenue swapped, or up to $720 per household if implemented Australia-wide, about 0.34% of annual gross domestic product.</p> <p>Of greater interest for homeowners and buyers is what it would do to prices.</p> <h2>Houses versus apartments</h2> <p>Broadly, we find that the switch would put downward pressure on prices, but not for every type of home.</p> <p>Across the market as a whole, we expect downward pressure on the price paid by buyers of about 4.7%, and downward pressure on the price received by sellers of about 0.1%.</p> <p>But for houses, we expect much stronger downward pressure than the average suggests.</p> <p>We expect the price paid by house buyers to fall by about 7.6%, and the price received by sellers to fall 3%.</p> <p>Interestingly, for apartments we expect movements in the other direction, pushing up the price paid by buyers by 2%, and pushing up the price received by sellers by 6.4%.</p> <h2>What’s so different about apartments?</h2> <p>Why would the switch put downward pressure on the price of houses but upward pressure on the price of apartments?</p> <p>It is because of how two offsetting effects play out.</p> <p>One is that higher land taxes depress land prices. Buyers who know they will be lumbered with future bills find their purchases less valuable. This effect is much bigger on house prices than apartment prices, because houses occupy more land on average.</p> <p>The other effect is that removing stamp duty not only removes an impost on the current buyer, but also removes an impost that will have to be paid when the current buyer sells, and when the subsequent buyer sells, and so on, making resale more valuable to the current buyer than it would have been.</p> <p>For properties that aren’t turned over often this effect isn’t very important, but for properties that are turned over frequently, it becomes significant.</p> <p>Apartments are turned over twice as frequently as houses, meaning that for apartments the upward effect on prices from removing stamp duty overwhelms the downward effect from imposing land tax.</p> <h2>Much depends on exactly what’s proposed</h2> <p>It would be possible to lessen this upward pressure on apartment prices by imposing higher land taxes on higher density housing, an idea canvassed by the <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/review/the-australias-future-tax-system-review/publications">Henry Tax Review</a> in 2010. Planning and zoning rules could also play a role.</p> <p>Other policy design decisions could have other effects on prices. Our modelling is based on an immediate swap of stamp duty for land tax.</p> <p>This is not the same as the NSW government’s opt-in proposal, which could have different price consequences to the policy we modelled.</p> <p>The NSW government is also reported to be considering excluding the most <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/stamp-duty-move-puts-pressure-on-other-states-20220613-p5ataj.html">expensive 20%</a> of properties from the switchover, so it can continue to collect stamp duties on high-value transfers.</p> <p>In future work we plan to extend our modelling beyond a simple swap of stamp duty and land tax.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/swapping-stamp-duty-for-land-tax-would-push-down-house-prices-but-push-up-apartment-prices-new-modelling-finds-184381" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. </em></p>

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Inspired retirement apartments in Waitara, Sydney

<p>Kokoda Residences’ unique vertical village in Sydney’s upper North Shore offers a community heart with transport, retail and recreational convenience second to none.</p> <p>Constructed by Sydney’s highly regarded builder Richard Crookes Constructions, alongside the equally reputed WMK architects, Kokoda Residences’ inspiring apartments now stand for Waitara to see and admire.</p> <p>Whether it's a one, two or three-bedroom apartment, each has been purpose-built to be light and refreshingly open, with a superior level of design, finish and building integrity. Kokoda Residences offers an array of floorplan layouts and aspects, with generously sized balconies, and distinctly curated neutral colour palettes designed to suit any furnishings.</p> <p>Quality European appliances feature throughout luxuriously designed kitchens, with beautifully styled and easy-to-use taps, soft-closing drawers, along with ovens, thoughtfully positioned at a comfortable height and location. Each apartment is insulated for comfort in summer and winter, with double glazed windows, ducted reverse cycle and multi-zoned air conditioning, block out blinds that are automated in the dining and living area, luxurious 100% wool carpets underfoot and so much more. To watch display apartment videos, <a href="https://kokodaresidences.com.au/display-apartment-video/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">click here</a>.</p> <p>The ground floor spaces become the time and place where Kokoda Residences’ community can truly connect, grow, and flourish. A suite of engaging facilities will generate a real neighbourhood of friendly, active, and like-minded people. Featuring a bar and lounge with a toasty fireplace, café, hairdresser, cinema, terrace garden and gym with specialised over 55s HUR gym equipment. All of these amenities can be enjoyed by residents and their friends and family, so there's little need to even leave their home to have a warm cup of coffee, have a glass of red by the fire, get their hair cut or watch a movie on the big screen.</p> <p>Kokoda Residences’ location is proving to be its own inspiration with future residents, being so close to everything - and everyone - they love. The train station is less than 100m walk away where they're one stop from Westfield Hornsby or the beautifully quaint Wahroonga Village. Magpies Waitara is just a few steps up the road with PCYC Hornsby/Ku-ring-gai and Mark Taylor Oval right next door, so life’s never boring at Kokoda Residences.</p> <p>For the security minded, Kokoda Residences has the added peace of mind of secure underground parking, which provides swipe-card access to resident-only lifts. What's more, Kokoda Residences doesn't have renters or allow Airbnbs, so you can always feel safe knowing your neighbours. All of which allows those keen travellers to 'lock-up and leave' whenever they wish.</p> <p>The benefits of choosing retirement living are as reassuring as they are delightful, like having no home maintenance to worry about with Kokoda Residences’ gardens, all taken care of for residents. Kokoda Residences is an innovative development in retirement living, proudly created by Vasey Communities, a trusted not-for-profit organisation who has been operating four other retirement villages across Sydney, and this year is celebrating their 60-year Diamond Jubilee.</p> <p><a href="https://kokodaresidences.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kokoda Residences</a> still has a range of beautifully finished one and two-bedroom apartments from $599,000*, including their own car space and additional basement storage. So, if you want to discover how to make Kokoda Residences your time and your place, please call our sales team on (02) 9299 3953.</p> <p><em>*Correct as at June 2022. You may have to pay a departure fee when you leave this village.</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with <a href="https://vasey.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vasey Communities</a>.</em></p>

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How a blank cheque offer won the battle for a luxurious apartment

<p dir="ltr">A Sydney home seller has pocketed a huge price for their luxurious property after a determined buyer showed their agent a signed blank cheque and invited them to fill in whatever price they wanted.</p> <p dir="ltr">The offer was made during an open inspection of the three-bedroom Barangaroo apartment, and proved to be too persuasive for the sellers to turn down. </p> <p dir="ltr">Despite being reluctant to sell their home, the owners signed the paperwork and accepted the cheque with their own asking value. </p> <p dir="ltr">Their price: $6.58 million. </p> <p dir="ltr">The eye-watering sum was $1.5 million above the price the sellers expected to make on the waterfront property, which was scheduled for auction just a few weeks later. </p> <p dir="ltr">It was not the only staggering offer the sellers received for the apartment on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-barangaroo-138857119?rsf=syn:news:nca:news:spa">601/19 Barangaroo Avenue.</a></p> <p dir="ltr">Another buyer reportedly showed selling agent Peter Li a banking app on his phone and offered to transfer the money to Mr Li directly to lock in the sale.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The successful buyer was the guy who brought his cheque book, he lived in the building and wanted to upsize to a three-bedroom apartment … this was the last three-bedroom option available,” Mr Li said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Five million was our initial price guide, we sold this for $1.5m more than the initial price guide – about 30 per cent.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“The vendor was determined to go to auction, but changed her mind when she saw the price we had already achieved. The same apartment sold (at the) off the plan launch for $2.95m. Now it’s more than double.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite Sydney’s current housing crisis, Mr Li believes many wealthy buyers are heading to Barangaroo. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The results that we are seeing in Barangaroo are extraordinary. People are moving away from Point Piper to Barangaroo … they are finding it difficult too, as no one is currently selling there.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Apparently, Barangaroo is immune to the current market slow down.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: realestate.com.au</em></p>

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Rupert Murdoch lists two jaw-dropping New York apartments

<p dir="ltr">Media mogul Rupert Murdoch is <a href="https://www.nine.com.au/property/news/rupert-murdoch-sells-two-new-york-city-apartments-for-usd-78-million/6f2cd734-5dc4-47cc-b62b-3a6fef0178f5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">selling</a> not one, but two apartments in New York City located just one floor apart - and hopes to make a combined $100 million from them.</p> <p dir="ltr">Having bought the apartments in 2014 for a combined $USD 57.9 million ($AUD 77.6 million).</p> <p dir="ltr">The first, a three-storey penthouse that takes up the entirety of the 58th, 59th and 60th floors of the One Madison tower near Madison Square Park, comes with stunning views and an <a href="https://www.corcoran.com/homes-for-sale/23-east-22nd-street-ph-manhattan-ny-10010/21655708/regionId=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">asking price</a> of USD $62 million ($AUD 83 million).</p> <p dir="ltr">As well as having five bedrooms, the penthouse includes a ‘staff room’, a kitchen with stunning city views, and a room with soaring six-metre ceilings and a wrap-around terrace.</p> <p dir="ltr">A curved glass staircase connects the first and second levels, while an internal lift connects all three.</p> <p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://www.corcoran.com/homes-for-sale/23-east-22nd-street-57a-manhattan-ny-10010/21655673/regionId=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">second</a>, a smaller three-bedroom apartment on the 57th floor, is on the market for $USD 16 million ($AUD 21.4 million).</p> <p dir="ltr">Deborah Grubman, the listing agent managing the sales from Corcoran Group, said Murdoch bought the penthouse and had it fitted out to his own specifications while he lived in the downstairs apartment.</p> <p dir="ltr">Once it was complete, Murdoch kept the smaller home for staff and guests.</p> <p dir="ltr">Before its most recent listing, Murdoch attempted to sell the penthouse in 2015 for $USD 72 million.</p> <p dir="ltr">Having failed to sell at the time, the mogul could walk away with a $30 million profit if he succeeds in selling the homes now for his desired price.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-84f24441-7fff-7703-d565-317a9debf572"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty Images, Corcoran Group</em></p>

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See inside the $100 million apartments at Crown Casino Tower

<p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">Rich property owners have been spending millions to snap up apartments in Sydney’s newest skyscraper, the Crown Casino tower, where residents are treated like royalty.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">Officially called One Barangaroo, the 71-storey tower has earned the title of Sydney’s tallest residential building after its completion in 2021.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">Selling agent Knight Frank has said that 90 percent of the building’s 82 units have already been sold, with many residents already fully moved-in.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">James Packer, the Crown’s largest shareholder, has even scored himself an apartment, spending $72.229 million for it.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">According to marketing material for the apartments, “the design and amenities of the residences are matched only by the effortless luxury of our impeccable hotel service, available day and night to every resident”.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">Residents can also enjoy sweeping views of the CBD, a pool deck, multiple gyms, and various restaurants, bars and cafes - where residents get priority reservations - as well as housekeeping and valet services.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">Other services <a style="background: transparent;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;vertical-align: baseline" href="https://onebarangaroo.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">include</a> an on-site luxury spa with various beauty treatments on offer, as well as “mindfulness training” and access to full-time personal trainers.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">According to Knight Frank, the pool deck area is one of the most popular spots within the development, with residents able to relax or invite friends, family, or grandchildren over.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">Erin van Tuil, Knight Frank’s marketing agent, said part of the appeal was that the homes were a “branded residence” under the Crown name.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">Hotel-branded apartments are also becoming an increasingly popular concept elsewhere in the world, and Ms van Tuil said it can offer a different service than regular apartment complexes.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">“A hotel concierge offers a different service than what you can find in serviced apartments. For example if you want to organise a sommelier or private chef they can do that for you - a normal concierge wouldn’t,” she <a style="background: transparent;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;vertical-align: baseline" href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10459507/Get-glimpse-life-inside-James-Packers-Sydney-Harbour-Crown-Casino-tower.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">explained</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">Though almost all of the residences have already sold, a two-storey penthouse still remains available for anyone looking to spend $100 million.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff">The six-bedroom apartment includes three private balconies - including one with a plunge pool - as well as three private bars and a butler’s kitchen that is separate from the main kitchen.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin: 0px 0px 5px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;font-size: 16px;vertical-align: baseline;color: #323338;font-family: Roboto, Arial;background-color: #ffffff"><em style="margin: 0px;padding: 0px;border: 0px;vertical-align: baseline">Images: One Barangaroo</em></p>

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How to decorate your senior apartment

<p>Ageing in place has been embraced by many older adults. Living comfortably in your own home or a separate apartment is a much-preferred option than living in a care facility. And if you have chosen an apartment clustered with tenants of the same age as you, it’ll be a fun experience for sure. You'll be able to connect with people of the same wavelength and who will probably be empathetic towards your concerns.</p> <p>Living in your senior apartment is an exciting idea. It’ll be much more exciting if you take extra steps to decorate it with comfort, mobility and your personality in mind.</p> <p>Here are some ways that you can decorate your senior apartment:</p> <p><strong>1. Add a few sentimental items</strong></p> <p>Adding a few sentimental items will not only make you remember happy times, but it’ll also jog your memories of the past and help exercise your neurons. Processing positive information is necessary for the successful formation of memories and is a helpful activity to prevent the early onset of dementia.</p> <p>Adding a few essential items from your past trips out of the country, like maybe a painting, a souvenir or an ornament, could help liven up your space and, at the same time, make you travel back down memory lane.</p> <p><strong>2. Display art on your wall</strong></p> <p>Adorning your walls with beautiful art pieces will make the space youthful, modern and lively. The visual and sensory feelings that art evokes may also lower stress, combat depression and connect with memories. You may hang <span><a rel="noopener" href="https://fineartamerica.com/wall-art" target="_blank">wall decor</a></span> in your apartment that brings back good memories to liven up the place.</p> <p>There are customisable wall decors available, and your options are unlimited. You can turn your posters, tapestries, metal prints, <span><a rel="noopener" href="https://fineartamerica.com/shop/framed+prints" target="_blank">framed prints</a></span> and even your photos into paintings.</p> <p>Wall art can refresh and enliven your walls and make excellent conversation pieces when you have guests over.</p> <p><strong>3. Downsize significantly</strong></p> <p>When transferring to your senior apartment, you don't have to take all your stuff with you. A lot of it might not fit in a smaller space anyway, so you better choose items that bring you joy. Even if you want to bring something with sentimental value, you must always think about ease and functionality first. Choose to <span><a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/property/downsizing/tips-to-make-the-most-of-downsizing" target="_blank">downsize</a></span> for your new home in order to gain a new perspective.</p> <p>Large furniture, like heavy antique sofas, may not be ideal in an apartment. You may opt for sofas with firm cushions because super soft and bouncy couches may be challenging to get in and out of. You don't want to find yourself stuck on it with no one to ask for help from.</p> <p>Choose simple and functional pieces of furniture that’ll make your space comfortable and practical.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7846732/adobestock_286258506_body.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e3d20d0d623b4c5ab8522d815f9ae90f" /></p> <p><strong>4. Embrace colours and patterns</strong></p> <p>It has been scientifically proven that bright colours can improve one's mood. And the colours people surround themselves with have a significant impact on their emotional wellbeing. Painting walls amber may give a sense of comfort and security, and the golden shade may create a joyful living environment, inspire creativity and raise alertness. Putting yellow accents like throw pillows gives the space a cosy ambience.</p> <p>Choosing blue, meanwhile, gives a feeling of comfort. Blue is a calming colour, and a pastel blue shade on the walls can create a soothing atmosphere and help you relieve stress and tension. You may also choose blue accents. An arctic blue sofa gives a feeling of relaxation and allows you to unwind and loosen up.</p> <p>Selecting green shades is said to promote healing, security and balance. Opting for light green shades, like mint green, creates a feeling of peace and tranquillity.</p> <p>Whichever colour you prefer for your space, you need to liven it up with patterns that suit your taste. You can choose geometric, striped, floral, or paisley patterns for your throw blankets, rugs and table runners.</p> <p><strong>5. Choose proper lighting</strong></p> <p>We need brighter lights in our homes as we age as our eyes don't absorb as much light; as opposed to younger people, seniors need 75% more light.</p> <p>When decorating your apartment, you may want to consider choosing bright lights for your dining room drop lights, your ceiling moldings, and especially your bathroom.</p> <p><strong>6. Add green with plants</strong></p> <p>Being around plants is said to increase the feeling of calmness and relaxation. Likewise, it also decreases anxiety, increases concentration, attentiveness, and improves memory. <span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.thespruce.com/big-houseplant-trends-2022-5210866" target="_blank">Having plants</a></span> around will also improve the air quality of a room.</p> <p>You may add small pots of succulents for accents or even place medium-sized vines in corners or strategic locations. One gorgeous and popular climbing evergreen perennial is <em>Monstera Deliciosa</em>, more commonly known as the 'Swiss cheese' plant because of its leaves.</p> <p>You may also add small pots of herbs like basil, thyme and oregano in colourful pots on your kitchen window sills that would work as decor and an ingredient for your home cooking too.</p> <p><strong>7. Use carpet on your floor</strong></p> <p>Carpets are a great addition to your apartment because of their functionality. Carpets increase the safety of your home, as a cushioned floor is a far better place to handle any stumbles or falls.</p> <p>Carpets will also make the room pop by making it look more significant, and increasing the room's insulation. The choice of colour for your carpet must complement your walls and your decorative accents. Carpets in neutral colours will make your room look bigger. You may also choose patterns that add a youthful vibe or lend elegance to a room.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p> <p>As we age, making our homes into an exciting place to live can only increase our quality of life. Having a place to enjoy retirement is something you have to give yourself. And it’s alright to splurge a little. You’ve worked hard all your life, and this is the best time to enjoy the fruits of your labour.</p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with </em><span><a rel="noopener" href="https://fineartamerica.com/shop/framed+prints" target="_blank"><em>Fine Art America</em></a></span><em>.</em></p> <p><em>Images: Supplied</em></p>

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