APARTMENT LIVING

Living near the beach at St Heliers is like being on vacation all year, writes Daria Kuprienko

Park picnics, summer swims and beach walks are all part of living in a two-bedroom apartment near the St Heliers shoreline, says Kate Bawden.

“It’s like being on holiday all the time because you are so close to the water.”

The view from the living and dining area in Kate’s second-level apartment also takes in Velleoweth Green, a green expanse and focal point of leisurely activity in the suburb. Cafes, restaurants, and shops are a short stroll away. The cosy 1970s home has two bedrooms and a separate laundry. It also has a conservatory facing the beach, perfect for reflection and relaxation.

“You can use the conservatory to read a book and relax and on a sunny morning you open it up and the apartment gets all-day sun.”

Kate renovated the single-level 125sq m apartment earlier this year. “I completely gutted it. Got rid of three solid walls and modernised the place,” she says.

What was once a separate kitchen and dining area is now an open-space kitchen. It has an island with drawers on one side and high sitting area on the other.

Kate also freshened up the bathroom and installed a new custom-made wardrobe in bedrooms.

The apartment is also well-insulated with double-glazed windows. Kate says she uses a heater only a few times a year.

She is sad to leave the apartment but is downsizing and will still be living near the beach.

The property will be ideal for a lock-up and leave as it’s so easy to look after, she says.

“It’ll suit someone who’s downsizing, wants the combination of security and easy living.”

Barfoot & Thompson agent Kelly Midwood says the new owner will enjoy being a short walk away from the water.

“This is a wonderfully secure lock-up-and-leave solution for busy people and professionals, or for retirees seeking a top location.”

The apartment entry is “tucked away”, which doesn’t crowd the area and means so you can be as involved with neighbours as you wish.

With only nine apartments in the building the neighbourhood is quiet and secure, with a shared garden for a summer barbecue or vegetable growing. A carport and storage shed are available.

An elevator was recently installed to make heavy duty shopping easier and knee-life longer.

The unit complex has no body corporate and was maintained by the owners’ association.

It also is in the Glendowie College area and is near the St Ignatius and St Heliers schools.