Devonshire Community Members Customize Their Living Spaces with Support

At Devonshire, the Erickson Senior Living community at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Custom Interiors Coordinator Laurie Lovely works one-on-one with future community members to design homes that reflect their styles and routines.

For Lillian and Gene Carter, Lovely's invaluable guidance helped shape each step of their planning process.

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"Laurie is a real pleasure to work with," says Lillian. "She has a way about her that gives you confidence and puts you at ease. You feel like, 'Together, we can do this!'"

A personalized approach

After the Carters reserved their residence at Devonshire, Lovely visited the couple in their house to better understand how they utilized their current living space and learn what items they wanted to bring with them.

"She looked at our furniture and art pieces--all of the things we love," Lillian recalls. "Using a copy of our floor plan, she showed us how everything would work. It made us feel like we weren't starting over. We could see that we would still be surrounded by all the items that mattered most to us."

Lovely then documented where everything would go, which provided a picture of their new, furnished living space.

"She gave us the completed layout," Lillian says. "It helped us decide what to keep and what to let go of--without the stress. When moving, you often wonder how it will all come together in the new place. We were so fortunate because she showed us."

Custom touches

At Devonshire, personalization extends far beyond floor planning. Future community members can also select new flooring, cabinetry, and tile options in the Custom Interiors Design Center.

"We can do as little or as much as someone wants," Lovely says. "Some people just choose paint and window treatments, while others select every new finish."

"We did not want carpeting; we prefer area rugs," says Lillian, who appreciated having lots of modern flooring options to choose from. "We also chose new wall colors and a backsplash that gave the kitchen a more refined look."

Their new lighting and window treatments were approached with much thought and care. Lovely measured each space, recommended fixture sizes, and helped the Carters select pieces that complemented the home. Room-darkening shades were added to the primary bedroom, and new light fixtures were added to the main living areas.

Throughout the renovation process, Lovely coordinated the work with contractors and ensured every detail was completed as planned.

"Our contractors and vendors, vetted for quality work and customer service, have the experience and skills to handle everything," Lovely says. "Incoming community members don't have to worry about a thing!"

Designed for daily use

In addition to these design details, the Carters requested changes that would support their lifestyle.

"I wanted a plug inside a storage closet for a handheld vacuum as well as towel and bar hooks in the bathroom," she says.

In the laundry area, Lovely created a solution that allows Lillian to hang clothes directly from the dryer. "I wanted to be able to function the way I'm used to," says Lillian.

Lovely also reworked the storage throughout their home to better support their routines. "We redesigned the closets to create space for both long and short items. We also added shoe storage and designed drawers for jewelry and scarves, so everything is accessible," Lillian explains.

She adds, "Now, when I look around, everything works together. The colors connect, the spaces feel right, and it's comfortable."

Continued support

Community members also have the option to make additional updates after they move in. When they're ready to get started, Lovely is just a phone call away.

"I always tell community members to think of me as a resource," Lovely says. "Whether they want to refresh a space or make a larger change, I'm here to help."

Later this year, Lillian plans on updating their sitting area, a space she uses for reading and relaxing, as well as making changes to their guest bedroom and primary bath.

Home sweet home

For those considering a move to Devonshire, Lillian encourages a thoughtful approach and open communication with Lovely early on in the planning process.

"If you want your new space to feel like home, think about the pieces you love and talk with Laurie about what will work," she says. "She's very helpful."

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

By Kelly Shue