Arooj lives in Stratford with her twin sister – and loves the freedom it affords her (Picture: Belinda Jiao)
Welcome back to What I Rent – Metro’s tenant diary series exploring what renting is like in the UK and further afield.
This week, we’re in East London visiting Arooj Aftab, who pays £1,780 for her share of her two-bedroom, two-bathroom flat with her sister.
Since moving in, she’s seen her bills cut drastically, as her monthly rent payment even includes a free coffee prescription, a co-working space and even access to a state-of-the-art gym.
Here’s what Arooj had to say about her renting situation…
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Arooj Aftab, Founder of Done With Diversity and What’s The Solution? I consult brands on culture and community, pushing for more representation both behind the scenes and on camera.
I curate and share ideas, and I like to make visions come to life. I’m definitely a bit of a multihyphenate.
What kind of property do you rent and how long have you been there?
I rent a two-bed home at Westfield’s Coppermaker Square in East London, where I have been living with my twin sister Kaya for the last 12 months, and we’ve just renewed for another year.
How much do you pay to live here?
My twin and I split the rent, and my half is £1,780. It’s a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, in the heart of Stratford, right by Olympic Park and Westfield.
And what do you get for what you pay?
A tonne of amenities. Before moving here, I had separate outgoings for a gym, co-working, and even coffee. This is now included in my rent which is great.
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I also have access to so many amazing amenities such as a resident’s lounge which has screening rooms, games, a private dining room and a roof garden.
Arooj has access to events as part of her Coppermaker Square rent (Picture: Belinda Jiao)
She’s attended everything from sound baths to workshops through her tenancy (Picture: Richard Hanson/London Communications Agency)
All residents also get access to amazing events and networking opportunities. I have attended everything from sound baths and aromatherapy workshops to local restaurant takeovers and cooking classes.
These events provide fantastic opportunities to meet and connect with fellow residents and like-minded creatives, while also learning new skills or focusing on my health & wellbeing.
The real cherry on top is the 25m pool and fitness centre – it’s got everything including a huge gym floor, sauna and steam room – plus spin classes and a yoga studio. You really don’t have to ever leave.
Do you feel like you have a good deal?
Yeah for sure. There’s a lot of added value that comes with living at Coppermaker Square. I think the amenities and community are great …read more
Source:: Metro
