Over Sixty Winter 2022 Digital

17 DOWNSIZING OVERSIXTY.COM.AU | WINTER 2022 installing a pull out airer, or setting up a simple admin space will make your new home super functional from the outset. Save on removalist costs Moving unwanted items to your new home is a no-no. The Struttons have a useful prompt when it comes to downsizing: Ask yourself, do I want to pay tomove this item that I don’t love and haven’t used in years? If the answer is “no”, then get rid of things like worn out sports equipment, rusted gardening tools, ancient linen, old books and knackered knick-knacks. Taking your entire home to your smaller space will be bedlam, cause stress and cost you more in removalist fees. Keep the lifestyle that makes you happy When downsizing to a smaller property, start by thinking about what activities you want your space to support. Don’t throw away everything. Focus on identifying what you need to enhance your new chapter. If you once loved golf but have EMMA MARTIN DOWNSIZING M oving from a family home to a smaller property can seem overwhelming, Storage and organisational experts, Dave and Briar Strutton’s philosophy onmoving to a smaller home is all about planning to live better with less. They sayplanning themovewell inadvance makes it easier to enjoy a quality lifestyle within the confines of the new smaller space. “Moving items that you don’t love or need will end up weighing you down and become a burden. The new space should reflect your personality and current interests,” says Briar. “Only keep the possessions that bring you joy and great memories and be kind to yourself by taking the time to go through the process thoughtfully. By planning and allocating time to assess possessions, people can have a positive experience by surrounding themselves with items that honour the past and support their future.” “We always advise our clients to take stock of the things that will support them in the life they want to live, so they are surrounded by the possessions that make them feel secure.” The couple run workshops to educate people about downsizing, how to keep the clutter out and storage ideas to solve small space challenges. In fact, they believe downsizing is as beneficial for the empty nesters or downsizers as it is for the children. “Often it’s the adult children that are left behind to clean out the garage full of dusty boxes filled with possessions that may not have seen the light of day for years.” Here is the Struttons’ downsizing checklist: Plan 12 months ahead for the big move to a smaller space Downsizing is also the process of planning for old age. As confronting as this may be, the Struttons’ advice is to make organisation a habit so clutter doesn’t build-up. Annual spring cleaning weekends make it easier to let go of things that no longer fit your lifestyle. The process of letting go can be enjoyable and make the eventual big move a relatively hassle-free and seamless transition. Downsizing tips for empty nesters now moved on to hiking, then keep your hiking gear but let go of the golf clubs. Keep a table to play bridge or cards if that’s what you do. Rather than viewing downsizing as losing yourself, reframe it as defining what’s important to you and how you would like to enjoy your next phase. Downsizing can bring enormous freedom. When done correctly, it allows people to refocus and allow for more time to spend with family and friends, volunteering and engaging in activities you love. “If you have a house full of stuff, start the de- clutter process now, it can be cathartic and help you identify how you want to live the next stage of your life.” If you don’t use it or love it, get rid of it Handle each item and ask yourself if you love it or need it. If it doesn’t fall into either category, then carefully consider why it deserves a place in your home. Sort items into three piles: Keep, Donate or Toss. Try and minimise items going to landfill. Today there are many options for donation to help others in the community. Visit your new home or get a copy of the floor plan Ask for a floor plan and one withmeasurements, so you have an idea of what items from your old home will fit in to your newhome. Even better, visit your new place and take photos so you can visualise the storage available and how your furniture and other belongings will fit. This will also give you an idea of where your photos and artwork will hang, plus where your favourite possessions can be displayed. Think about small storage solutions It’s inevitable when moving from a large family home that space and storage will be different and possibly reduced. You may need to install shelves and drawers or invest in clever storage solutions to help your home function more efficiently. You may want to freshen up the pantry or laundry with some stylish boxes that double as décor or containers that improve visibility and accessibility. Simple changes such as retro fitting drawers to existing cupboards, Dave Strutton is the owner of Howards Storage WorldMile End, Adelaide Photo: Courtesy Dave and Briar Strutton DOWNSIZING Saying goodbye to your family home – and possessions – to resettle into a more manageable dwelling can be made easier with this expert advice Over 77% of Australian households have at least one spare bedroom Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics Storage ideas: Dave and Briar Strutton