How would you fair with a significant downsizing? Do you feel drowned in space since the young ‘uns have flown the roost? Or are you so used to having more rooms than you need the thought of simplifying things and moving to more suitably a sized abode gives you sweats? Let’s take a look a case study highlighted recently in The Metro.
Angela Spring made a significant lifestyle change by moving from a five-bedroom house to rent a studio apartment in Croydon, South London. Initially seeking to buy a property, Angela found the housing market too competitive and expensive. Instead, she opted to stay in South London, where she has lived for most of her life, and rent a studio flat in a new all-inclusive rental development called Enclave Croydon.
Angela pays £1,715 per month for her studio apartment. Although this is slightly more than she initially wanted to spend, she believes it’s a great deal considering what she gets for the price. Her rent includes all bills and access to a wide range of facilities. These include large co-working areas, conference rooms, a multi-faith room, podcast rooms (very 2024), spacious communal kitchens, private dining areas, cinema rooms (now we’re talking!), a games room with poker, table tennis and darts, a gym, Peloton studio, yoga suite, a music room, a library, a laundry room, and a rooftop garden with stunning views across London and the south. I mean, that’s pretty amazing…
There is also a spa with a sauna, steam room, and hot and cold-water plunge pools, which residents can access for an additional monthly fee. The development hosts free resident activities regularly, allowing tenants to socialize, get to know each other and maybe see what intersts they have in common. We particularly like the sound of this; it can be quite diffiuclt to get to know your neighbours in new builds.
Angela feels she has secured a good deal with her all-inclusive rent, flexible tenures, and onsite amenities. Located in the heart of Croydon, her flat is just two minutes from East Croydon station, offering excellent transport links to central London and other areas, as well as tram and bus connections. The nearby Boxpark provides entertainment and numerous dining options.
She discovered Enclave Croydon by chance last November through an email about its launch event. Although she wasn’t initially planning to move, she was so impressed by the facilities, the building, and the beautiful views of Croydon it prompted her decision to make the move.
Despite the significant downsizing, Angela has managed to make her studio feel like home. The flat features built-in spaces and large windows with lovely views of Croydon’s green areas. While she can’t make extensive decorations, she has personalized the space with cushions and plants. So far, she hasn’t encountered any issues, but the building’s maintenance team is available if needed.
Nobody knows what the future holds but Angela says she has no plans to move again soon or buy a property due to the astronomical costs. She is perfectly content with her current arrangement, where her bills are included so she knows where she is financially without much head scratching over spreadsheets, and the available facilities provide her with opportunities to explore new activities and opportunities.
