Riverstone Living Fulham, a gated community for individuals over 65 in west London, offers a lifestyle far removed from traditional retirement homes, featuring amenities such as private chefs, a swimming pool, a golf simulator, and a cinema. The community aims to foster a sense of home while providing extensive social opportunities and high-level care.

Residents can participate in various clubs, including art and book clubs, and engage in activities like Tai Chi and pilates. The community also hosts talks by notable figures, with past speakers including actors Ralph Fiennes and Joanna Lumley, and human rights lawyers discussing topics like the history of Gaza.

Facilities and Services

The facilities at Riverstone Living are designed to cater to a discerning clientele. Apartments are available in one, two, and three-bedroom layouts, as well as penthouses, with some offering direct river views. The community boasts a spa treatment room, a state-of-the-art gym with tailored e-gym facilities, and a hydrotherapy pool with UV-sterilised water. A golf simulator offers access to 500 virtual courses, with private lessons available from a professional teacher.

Beyond leisure, Riverstone emphasizes wellbeing and safety. Residents receive annual mobility consultations from trained medical staff. Discreet alarm systems are integrated into apartments, with floor-level buttons in bathrooms. Concierge staff are available 24/7 to assist with queries or emergencies. The community also offers access to a 24-hour doctor service.

"It's how we make the residents feel, that's what really matters," said Duncan Garrood, CEO of Riverstone Living. "We don't want this to feel like a hotel. We want it to feel like a home."

Resident Experiences

Residents like Janice and Tony Isaac, who were among the first to move into the Fulham development, have praised the community's safety, security, and the array of facilities and activities. They noted that the sense of community and the on-site activities keep them busier than ever.

Sue Harwood, who moved to Riverstone while still working in the City of London, echoed these sentiments. She found the community aspect and peace of mind invaluable. Harwood also highlighted the wellbeing team's prompt response after she mentioned a minor car accident, receiving a welfare check within minutes and a follow-up call the next day.

Residents can also initiate their own educational programs, with individuals giving lectures on topics of expertise. These talks have covered subjects ranging from the history of Gaza to oncology and space exploration. The community also hosts resident art exhibitions, with contributions from family members, such as Ms. Harwood's grandson.

Cost and Payment Structures

Riverstone Living Fulham offers one-bedroom apartments starting at approximately £961,000, with penthouses priced from £6.71 million. In addition to the property purchase price, there is a monthly membership fee ranging from £1,574.47 to £2,014. This fee can be reduced by agreeing to a larger deferred fee, a common practice in retirement villages where a portion of the sale price is returned to the community upon sale. Riverstone offers three payment programs, varying the deferred fee percentage (28% to 35%) in exchange for different monthly fee structures, including options for fixed monthly fees or significant discounts.

The community has two existing locations in Fulham and Kensington, with a third set to open in Bishops Avenue in November.