An energy efficient home and reconnecting with nature were just two of the reasons Clive and Ria Beaumont sold their five-bedroom, semi-detached home in Hampton Hill, London and bought a four-bedroom, detached new build home from Denbury Homes in the Suffolk village of Darsham.
Clive and Ria Beaumont had lived in London for 35 years, running an employee communications business together. Having retired and with their grown-up daughter now living in France, the couple considered downsizing in London – but the costs didn’t add up. Spending more time outdoors during lockdown and rising energy costs led them to consider a new home a little further afield.
With family in the area, Suffolk was the obvious choice, but it was the house and development that attracted them to Darsham.
Ria said: “I came across an advert online and the style of house was exactly what I’d had in mind since we decided to move. We got in touch with Denbury Homes (or Hopkins & Moore as it was at the time) and were excited to hear that a similar house would be available at a forthcoming development in Darsham.
“We wanted a smaller development so Darsham Meadows was ideal for us. The village is small but there is a busy pub, and the village hall is very active with lots of clubs and classes and opportunities to meet people.
“There are quite a few newcomers to the village so we’re all settling in together, I feel like I know more of my neighbours here after just a few weeks than I really got to know in over 30 years in London. There’s a real sense of community.”
With fuel prices rising, the couple is enjoying the energy efficiency of their new home. Clive said: “Our home in London was around 100 years old, it was lovely, but it wasn’t well insulated and had plenty of draughts. Our energy bills were going up. We sold just before the latest rises, so I hate to think what the fuel costs would be now. Our new home has an air source heat pump which powers underfloor heating to the downstairs and radiators upstairs. The house always feels cosy.”
The couple got into cycling during lockdown, Ria adds: “It was cycling that really got us out and about during the pandemic, enjoying the fresh air and getting back in touch with nature was an unexpected silver lining. Now we have Suffolk to explore, the wildlife and the beautiful coast and inland areas are such a joy.”
Clive continues: “The move went very smoothly for us. We rented nearby for a few months between our sale and the build being finished, so we were able to watch the progress of our new home – and had the opportunity to select the kitchen and other fixtures and finishings.
“Denbury Homes is known for the quality of their build and their sympathetic design. There’s a feeling locally that their homes are on a different level to most of the other developers. We’re certainly happy with the service and the finish of our home. The build was completed on time and the team on site have always been incredibly helpful. Stuart Ward the site manager is always on hand if we have a question or to arrange any minor repairs.”
Sara Raven, Director of Sales and Marketing at Denbury Homes: “It’s wonderful to hear how well Clive and Ria are settling in. I was lucky enough to meet them whilst they were considering Darsham Meadows, so I know it was a big decision for them to leave London after so many years. It was a pleasure to help them buy their new home and I’m delighted that they are enjoying it and everything that Suffolk has to offer.”
The couple have been back to London a few times since they moved. Ria mentions: “The train is so easy, we can travel in, meet up with a friend, see a matinee at the theatre and still be home by 10pm. We’ve also got a line of friends waiting to come and visit for a few days – we just need to finish the unpacking!”
