SOCIAL media influencer Rayne Bryant didn’t think she’d survive living in an apartment with her three kids when she agreed to put the high life to the test.
Like most, the 36-year-old thought high-density housing and families weren’t a good mix.
But after spending two months in a western suburbs development as part of a WA Apartment Advocacy trial, she has gone from sceptic to happy tenant.
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READ NOWMs Bryant now rents the three-bedroom, two-bathroom home she tried out at Claremont by Mirvac during the experiment, which was designed to challenge common perceptions about the apartment lifestyle.
She continues to broadcast the experience to her 26,000+ Instagram followers, posting about fitness sessions on the balcony and having Claremont Oval as a backyard.
Ms Bryant, who has signed a six-month lease, said the location won her over.
“I grew up in the area and there’s so many great things to see and do within walking distance,” she said.
“The oval is perfect for the kids to use whenever they like and I also love the expansive outlook from the apartment.
“We walk into Claremont Quarter regularly and quite often jump on a train to either the city or Fremantle.
“When I get some time to myself, I feel like I’m living in absolute luxury.
“I feel safe and the apartments are so quick and easy to clean.”
WA Apartment Advocacy director Samantha Reece said influencers Benna Catterick, Lidia Love and her family also gave apartment living their tick of approval after participating in the trial.
“A home doesn’t have to be a house,” Ms Reece said.
“Families and apartments work when you get the right amenities within the hub.
“Claremont by Mirvac has the oval and is near the golf course, pool, dining precinct and train, so it’s a prime example of the hubs we want to start seeing in Perth.”
Rayne’s tips for apartment living with kids
Embrace the minimalist lifestyle
When you live in a big house, it’s so easy to find somewhere for everything. In an apartment, it’s so liberating to have only what you need.
Location, location, location
Be really selective about your apartment’s location. The oval is a game-changer for us. My kids are old enough to let themselves up and down the lift and they love having a footy oval as a backyard. I’m not sure how we would go without the ability for them to run around whenever they want.
Set up the bedrooms as little sanctuaries
We all need a place to retreat to and if I’m having a wine with a girlfriend and we want to chat and listen to tunes, it’s great that the kids have their own space to chill out.
Be creative with your space
Define each space and set it up accordingly. When you live in a small area it’s important that everything has a place. The more specific about where things go and what space is used for, the easier it is to keep your apartment tidy and the kids will be able to take the reins with that too.