All Saints is Supersonic Choice for Downsizing Retired Aircraft Engineer.
Moving to a beautifully restored historic building set on 8.6 acres of beautiful gardens, with views of the South Downs and Mead Village, makes downsizing easy.
Christopher Robbins and his wife Doreen, married 20 years, recently purchased a two bedroom duplex home at All Saints, Eastbourne. Christopher, a 78 year old retired British Airways engineer, who used to work on Concorde, fell in love with the development immediately.
Christopher, explains: "We lived locally in the area and popped down to All Saints when there was an open day. We had been looking at other much more expensive properties, which we nearly paid for deposits to buy, but they did not even come close to matching our home at All Saints.
The former Concorde engineer Christopher added: "It was a no brainer really. We bought the property to downsize from our previous home, as the garden we had was simply too much work and we wanted more money for our retirement. We now have the use of a much larger garden – the communal grounds and we don't have to do anything to maintain it. It's much more relaxing for us at All Saints."
One of the key attractions for Mr & Mrs Robbins is the architectural heritage of All Saints, and the attention to detail Berkeley have invested in restoring the stunning Victorian hospital, which closed in 2004.
Originally built between 1867 and 1869 on land given by the 7th Duke of Devonshire, All Saints hospital was built as an Anglo-Catholic nunnery and convalescent home and designed by the acclaimed architect Henry Woodyer, Its striking Victorian Gothic Revivalist style was complemented by the ornate chapel in 1874.
Christopher comments: "The old hospital looks like a large mansion house and its conversion makes it a really unique development. Every home is different, with a high specification, and that's what really stood out for us.
"Our duplex home located in one of the old hospital wings, is arranged over the ground and first floors, and feels like a house. It even comes with its own garage. I have a car but if I'm out socialising or want to go to London, it's nice to know that All Saints is a short bus ride from Eastbourne where I can pretty much get anywhere by bus or train.
"When our friends came visit us they loved our home and a few even looked into getting a property at All Saints for themselves."
The Robbins also found selling their former home of 20 years surprisingly easy. "We managed to get three offers after only two days by marketing it through the same agent recommended by Berkeley," he said.
As well as buying their dream home, in their dream location, the retired couple have also struck up friendships with their neighbours and enjoy the thriving community spirit at All Saints.
Christopher comments: "Our new home is on the corner next to the entrance gate so we have been able to meet most of the people that live here. The Concierge Service has arranged a Christmas dinner for residents as well as a talk on the history of the hospital, which will help us to get to know our neighbours even better.
And to top it all, with the sea almost on their doorstep, along with their favourite pub, the Robbins are reaping the rewards of life at All Saints.
Christopher added: "We only live a couple of hundred yards from the sea in Eastbourne and we certainly take advantage of that. We also live very close to our new favourite pub and restaurant, The Ship and Ridgeways. If we want to eat in, there is a fantastic butchers and a Tesco within walking distance.
"I have lived in Eastbourne for 20 years and love it. After all Eastbourne is renowned for being the sunniest place in Britain. My wife used to live here before that and used to manage a hotel. We also have six children and 12 grandchildren and most of them live around the area, and they love visiting."
Berkeley (Southern) Ltd has created a collection of stunning homes within a fully restored converted 19th century hospital and chapel, originally designed by the highly acclaimed architect Henry Woodyer.
Skilfully restored by Berkeley (Southern) Ltd and a dedicated team of experts, considerable care was undertaken in converting the period buildings into modern homes that reflect today's lifestyle needs.
Kevin Redmond, Head of Sales at All Saints comments: "We are receiving a lot of interest from people looking to downsize from larger family homes across the Home Counties. Downsizers like All Saints because it looks and feels grand and its affordability allows them to release sufficient equity from their old home."
The homes at All Saints all feature high end appliances, quality finishes and individual layouts to suit all lifestyle. In addition, Berkeley have included landscaping features, such as communal courtyards, designed to encourage wildlife and biodiversity, while creating a tranquil environment for its residents.
All Saints has several modern amenities including a dedicated concierge service that can assist residents with day to day necessities from dry cleaning to groceries. The service also provides recommendations on where to eat and current events in Eastbourne, helping residents to take full advantage of all that the area has to offer. There is also a library, as well as a chapel and a small gym at the development. The landscape surrounding All Saints is professionally maintained by the estate management service, allowing residents to enjoy the green space without having to worry about the gardening.
Prices for the refurbished apartments at All Saints start from £230,000 for a two-bedroom home. For more information or to book your personal appointment to view, please contact the Sales & Marketing suite on 01323 749521.
