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Beata’s home upgrade story in the heart of Byker

Five years of a major regeneration programme led by Karbon Homes and delivered by partner RE:GEN Group has been completed in the Byker estate. 

One of Newcastle’s most iconic and historically significant communities is part of a £1.8m investment. 

Since 2021, more than 600 homes to date have been modernised with new kitchens, bathrooms and internal upgrades – an improvement plan shaped by a Community Pledge developed with residents. 

This regeneration programme is not just about bricks and mortar, it’s about creating homes that meet modern standards while preserving the unique character of Byker. 

Beata Stachura has called the Byker Estate home since 2013. After moving from nearby Heaton, she’s enjoyed the estate’s convenient location, great views of the city and vibrant multi-cultural community feel. 

Beata’s home has undergone significant improvements, with the bathroom fully refurbished three years ago with a new bath, shower, toilet and sink. Most recently, internal doors were upgraded, and the kitchen was completely transformed. Old tiles were removed and replaced with easy clean work top trims, soft-close cupboards were installed and new flooring and lighting were added. The kitchen also benefitted from a full rewire and a fitted integrated hob. 

The improvements have made a big difference to Beata’s daily life, and she is delighted with the transformation: “It’s easier to keep clean, saves time and feels cosier – a lovely big warm space.

“I had a choice of cupboard colours, worktops, flooring, and even the layout, to personalise the space. It feels like my house was upgraded to a higher standard – more modern, quiet and with better finishes.”

The regeneration work has turned her home into a place she’s proud of. Beata finished her kitchen by putting her stamp on it and painting the wall a warm green colour.

The process, which lasted three to four weeks, was smoother than Beata expected: “I was more nervous than I should have been, each day so much work was done so fast. Communication was very clear throughout, and I always knew what was happening the next day.”

RE:GEN’s team worked hard to minimise disruption by using dust sheets, providing boxes for storage in advance and ensuring access to essentials like the washing machine.

When asked if she would recommend others having the improvement works when it’s their turn, Beata replied: “Absolutely, I had a positive experience and was happy with the speed of the work. It’s quick and worth the short-term upheaval for a brand-new kitchen, but to be honest, even my cat wasn’t disturbed!”

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