Riverstone Living Fulham, a gated community for residents over 65, offers a lifestyle that includes private chefs, a swimming pool, a golf simulator, and cultural events, with prices for one-bedroom apartments starting at £961,000. The community aims to provide a sense of home rather than a hotel, according to CEO Duncan Garrood.
Amenities and Social Life
The development features a cinema, bars, spa treatment rooms, and a state-of-the-art gym. Residents can participate in various clubs and classes, such as art, book clubs, Tai Chi, and Pilates. The community also arranges chauffeured trips to West End shows and hosts talks by notable figures.
Focus on Health and Safety
Beyond luxury amenities, Riverstone Living incorporates health and safety features tailored for older adults. These include annual mobility consultations with wellbeing staff, discreet help buttons, and 24/7 access to a doctor service. The apartments are equipped with subtle alarm systems, with floor-level buttons in bathrooms. Communal areas also have easily accessible alarm panels, and a team of two concierges is available around the clock for assistance.
Resident Experiences
Residents Janice and Tony Isaac, who moved from a house they had occupied for 14 years, described the transition. They noted that their friends and family were initially surprised by their decision to move to a retirement community. However, their daughter was relieved and impressed after touring the facility. The Isaacs highlighted the sense of community, security, and the abundance of on-site activities as significant benefits.
Sue Harwood, who moved to Riverstone while still working in London, shared a similar experience. She stated that her friends initially thought she was moving to a conventional "old folks' home." Harwood emphasized that the community aspect and peace of mind are invaluable. She recounted an instance where the wellbeing team promptly checked on her after she mentioned a minor car accident.
Tailored Living and Costs
Riverstone Living offers one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, as well as penthouse options. Apartments can be purchased fully or partially furnished. The community has a restaurant open to the public and a members-only space for residents.
<
<
<
The cost of living at Riverstone Living includes apartment prices starting from £961,000 for a one-bedroom unit, with penthouses reaching up to £6.71 million. Additionally, there is a monthly membership fee ranging from £1,574.47 to £2,014, which can be reduced with a larger deferred fee. This deferred fee structure, where a portion of the sale price is returned to the community, is common in retirement villages. Riverstone Living offers three payment programs with varying deferred fees and monthly costs, including options for fixed monthly fees or significant discounts on bills.