Future Residents of Emerson Lakes Customize Their New Living Spaces

Residences at Emerson Lakes, an Erickson Senior Living community opening soon in Lakewood Ranch, Fla., feature spacious floor plans, elevated finishes, and stunning views.

All residences include stainless steel appliances, soft-close kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers, modern hardware, and recessed lighting. Some also offer built-in bookcases and electric fireplaces.

Future residents appreciate that homes were designed with functionality and elevated style in mind, but what's helping them feel right at home are personal touches. As a result, many reservists are turning to Custom Interiors Coordinator Maguire LaFave, who joined the Emerson Lakes sales team in February.

"Many incoming residents are interested in making enhancements before moving in," says LaFave. "We offer a range of options they can choose from, which makes the process even smoother and more convenient for them. You can really make your home your own!"

Years of experience

LaFave has always been interested in home design. "I grew up renovating houses with my family, and we were always watching HGTV," she says, with a smile. "In my free time, I still watch design shows and read home design books. I even build houses on my iPad for fun."

After earning a degree in business management from Florida Gulf Coast University, she spent four years with Pulte Homes managing model homes, sales offices, and community operations.

Then, she served as a property manager for Lakewood Ranch Realty before joining Homes.com as a territory account sales manager, responsible for hosting product demonstrations and trade shows and maintaining strong relationships with vendors across Southwest Florida.

LaFave loved working in the real estate industry, but she was ready to explore her passions for design and personal connection. "When I found the open position at Emerson Lakes, I was very interested," she recalls. "I'm thrilled to be part of a team that is dedicated to helping seniors find and curate their forever homes!"

Range of options

Once someone reserves a home at Emerson Lakes, they meet with LaFave to review all aspects of their new space. "We offer a range of one- and two-bedroom floor plans," notes LaFave. "Many people are impressed with just the standard features."

This initial meeting is also an opportunity to discuss the range of available custom options, including window treatments, crown molding, light fixtures, backsplashes, and custom closets.

"Popular selections include window treatments for additional privacy, pendant light fixtures, and ceiling fans," says LaFave.

Currently, she meets with reservists at the Sales and Information Center, but in early 2027, she will begin showcasing options in the expansive Custom Interiors Design Center. The center's comprehensive displays will feature samples of tile, window treatments, paint colors, cabinetry, light fixtures, and other finishes.

"I'm excited to be able to show future residents all of the different ways they can customize their new home," she says. "The Design Center will give them the opportunity to touch and feel the textures and see all of the options available to them."

Next steps

LaFave loves collaborating with reservists to develop a design plan.

"If they want my opinion on something, I'll weigh in, but they guide the decisions," she explains. "I also act as a resource, reminding them what features are already included and what can easily be added later, if their needs change over time."

Once a design plan is finalized, LaFave works with Emerson Lakes' preferred vendors--vetted for quality work and customer service--to ensure most customizations will be completed before move-in day.

"When the moving truck arrives, and movers start bringing your belongings in, they're able to unpack everything into the custom cabinets you chose," she explains. "Having all work completed in advance makes for a seamless move-in day. You're able to start enjoying the vibrant lifestyle from day one!"

LaFave adds, "This is going to be their home, so I want it to not only meet their needs but exceed their expectations and provide the best experience possible."

Making connections

Since joining the team in February, LaFave has formed strong relationships with many future residents. "I consider myself an old soul at heart. I enjoy doing a lot of things that our residents like to do, like being in my garden and doing puzzles," she says.

She notes that it's never too early to start planning, so she encourages reservists to schedule an introductory meeting. "I love thinking creatively about all the ways we can customize your new living space," says LaFave. "Don't hesitate to reach out!"

To learn more about independent senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Linda Esterson