Meet the Lifehost: Karen Hartburn

Our Lifehosts are an integral part of Renaissance’s approach to later living. We are proud of the work they do, connecting and helping our homeowners and rental members, especially during the recent lockdown.

 We have been speaking to our Lifehosts to discover more about them and their roles. In this instalment, we speak to Karen Hartburn who will be the Lifehost at our new Sandbanks Road community coming soon to Poole.

Can you tell us a bit about what living at Sandbanks Road, Poole will be all about?

In this location, homeowners and rental members will benefit from an exceptional lifestyle and wellbeing in a safe and secure home. There will be plenty of social activities within the tranquil and friendly community setting, with the convenience of essential amenities on their doorstep. 

 The 32 modern and light filled homes will be complemented by welcoming and comfortable communal areas and a beautiful, landscaped garden. Sandbanks Road is also across the road from Poole Park which is 110 acres of parkland with 60 acres of ponds bordering magnificent Poole Harbour, wildlife, and secret gardens, perfect for any pet owners moving in 

What do you think the most important aspect of a Lifehost's role is in creating a strong community? 

As a Lifehost, I think it is very important to get to know the different homeowners and rental members, their different likes and dislikes and recognising their common interests. This is an essential part of growing the community so we can organise activities and outings to accommodate all. 

I have lots of plans and ideas which I am looking forward to launching, such as: “Ponder over Poole” where local owners share their knowledge of the area with owners who are new to the area; a boat trip to Swanage, from Poole Quay to enjoy the seaside resort of Swanage; ‘Weekly Wander’ will involve a stroll around the lake with your new friends and& neighbours; on ‘Wet and Windy Wednesdays’ we will host drawing sessions whilst in the Summer, a ‘Seaside and Sunsets Photography Competition’.

I have also enquired about voluntary work at the National Trust’s Brownsea Island, home to the rarely seen red squirrel, which may interest those outdoor and nature lovers...

What are you looking forward to about working here?

Being an integral part of building and growing the community to enhance our homeowner and rental members’ lifestyle and wellbeing. I am also looking forward to working with a host of great people from different walks of life and help them make Sandbanks Road Poole an amazing community to be part of.

Do you have any recommendations for Poole and the surrounding areas?

I would recommend Rick Stein Restaurant Sandbanks for delicious seafood and amazing views over Poole Harbour.

For those interested in the arts, The Lighthouse is a wonderful arts centre and home to a symphonic concert hall, theatres, an independent cinema, and art galleries. Whilst Russell Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is a very grand and beautiful house filled with some fascinating and diverse artwork. 

I would also highly recommend a visit to the RNLI College to see where the crews and volunteers are trained. You can then enjoy some refreshments in the cafe with panoramic views of Holes Bay and watch the Twin Sails Bridge in operation.

If you’re looking for an active day out then you can hire a Beryl’s Bike, from one of the marked bays throughout Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch to enjoy getting to know the area on two wheels or use the hop on hop off City Sightseeing Bus for some effortless sight sighting.

Finally, Poole Harbour offers all sorts of water sports, from kayaking to kitesurfing and paddle boarding for the more adventurous! Just a short drive away, we also have Parkstone Golf Club, one of Great Britain and Ireland’s top 100 golf course and one of the finest on the South Coast.

What features do you think will set Sandbanks Road Poole apart?

The community is designed to enhance cognitive health and provide active homeowners with excellent service in a stylish, relaxed, and friendly environment with an abundance of activities in a tranquil setting right on their doorstep.

The great location will enable our new homeowners to appreciate the beauty of Poole and beyond. We are so lucky to be surrounded by Blue flag beaches, the New Forest National Park and Jurassic Coast with the offering of direct fast trains to London.

Sandbanks Road will be the perfect home in the perfect location!

 --

Sandbanks Road is an exciting new boutique later living community in Poole where Renaissance (part of Lifestory) offers the flexibility and freedom of buying, or with Lifestory Choices, renting long term or renting before you buy.. To register for a one-to-one pre-booked appointment and view the stunning show home or to talk to our friendly and knowledgeable staff, please contact the team on 01202 618564 or [email protected]. Prices to buy start from £350,000 and to rent from £1947 pcm.