How three generations found sanctuary at KOYO by Abadeen

When Antoinette Chan and her architect husband, Peter, first began casually exploring the idea of buying an investment property, they had no idea it would lead to a transformative decision for their entire family. But a single visit to the display suite at Abadeen’s KOYO development in Crows Nest changed their course, setting the stage for an extraordinary journey that brought three generations together in one of Sydney’s most eagerly awaited residential communities.

Today, Antoinette, her mother Janet Khoo, and her sister (currently based in Singapore) have each secured their own apartment in the same building. The result is a rare and deeply personal multi-generational living arrangement, built on a foundation of thoughtful design, a strong sense of community, and everyday convenience.

A serendipitous journey to living side-by-side

“It wasn’t planned,” says Antoinette, who purchased a three-bedroom garden apartment with her husband and teenage daughter. 

“Peter came across KOYO and encouraged me to visit because he had a lot of respect for Abadeen’s previous work. As soon as we saw it, we knew it wasn’t just an investment — this was a home.”

Shortly after, Antoinette suggested her mother, Janet Khoo, take a look at the same development. A long-time inner-city resident who had recently sold her property in The Rocks, Janet had experienced some health setbacks and was contemplating a move closer to her daughter.

“I walked into the display apartment, and it just felt right,” says Janet. “I didn’t look anywhere else. The space, the simplicity of the design, the light — everything gave me a sense of peace. It’s a new beginning, but it also feels like home.”

In a stroke of serendipity, Janet selected the two-bedroom apartment next door to her daughter — completely unaware of Antoinette’s purchase. Around the same time, Antoinette’s sister, who resides in Singapore, viewed the property via a virtual tour and chose to buy the apartment directly above Janet’s.

“We were all drawn to KOYO individually, and it just happened that our homes ended up vertically stacked — ground, first, and second floor,” Antoinette laughs. 

“It was a coincidence, but also a sign. This is where we’re meant to be.” 

Design that nurtures lifestyle and longevity

Designed by celebrated architect Koichi Takada, KOYO is a low-rise, boutique development that prioritises liveability, elegance, and sustainability. For the Chan-Khoo family, it delivered on all fronts.

“Our garden apartment gives us the feel of a standalone home but with none of the maintenance,” says Antoinette. “All three bedrooms open onto a generous private garden, which is perfect for our dog Archie — and for entertaining. The open-plan layout and high ceilings make it feel airy, calm and luxurious.”

For Janet, security and accessibility were top priorities — and KOYO offered the ideal balance. 

“At my age, I didn’t want to be climbing stairs,” she explains. 

“The first-floor apartment opens directly to the garden, and the building is small, which gives it a more personal, village-like feel. Yet I’m just steps away from my daughter and granddaughter. That gives me so much peace of mind.”

The family also appreciated the thoughtful amenities that avoided the excesses of some larger developments.

“We didn’t want a complex with too many facilities we wouldn’t use,” explains Antoinette. 

“KOYO has everything we need — generous storage, secure parking, beautifully landscaped walkways, and a stunning rooftop terrace with BBQ facilities that feels serene rather than busy.”

Embracing a new chapter in Crows Nest

The location was another critical factor in the family’s decision. Though they had always lived closer to Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Antoinette says the transformation of Crows Nest was a revelation.

“When we returned from living overseas, we discovered Crows Nest had become this vibrant, walkable hub,” she says. 

“We love being able to stroll to cafés, restaurants, and shops on Willoughby Road. The new Metro makes the commute into the CBD effortless, and our daughter can walk to her school — it’s just next door.”

Janet agrees: “I was worried about giving up my inner-city lifestyle, but I’ve fallen in love with this area. It has everything I need — supermarkets, quiet streets, friendly faces — and it’s all a short walk away. I feel safe, independent, and connected.”

Why Abadeen?

While design and location were important, the family also credits their decision to Abadeen’s reputation and responsiveness. With decades of experience delivering high-quality residential projects, Abadeen’s track record helped build trust during a volatile market period.

“The waiting game was tough, especially after selling my old apartment,” says Janet. “But the Abadeen team kept me updated every step of the way. They were professional, courteous, and transparent.”

Antoinette adds, “Peter works in property and had already heard of Abadeen. The quality of their work really impressed us, and as the project neared completion, they went above and beyond to keep us informed and supported. That level of communication is rare.”

A family story rooted in the future

For all three women, KOYO represents more than a real estate transaction. It’s about building a future where family, independence, and community coexist.

“We respect each other’s space,” says Antoinette. “Mum is very independent, and so are we. But knowing we’re all close by — especially for my daughter — is incredibly comforting. It’s modern co-living without sacrificing privacy.”

Janet echoes the sentiment: “We can share dinners, look out for each other, and still live our own lives. That’s the beauty of this setup. It’s the kind of home arrangement that gives you peace of mind.”

“KOYO is more than a building,” says Antoinette. “It’s a home that reflects who we are — thoughtful, close-knit, and quietly joyful. We’re not just buying into a development. We’re buying into a way of life.”

Only a handful of two- and three-bedroom residences remain for sale, priced from $2.95 million.

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