Barbara Rolison’s Independence model apartment at Granite Farms Estates looks like a magazine spread. From the carefully chosen artwork on the walls to the thoughtful layout of her furniture, every element is intentional.

“I’ve kept what mattered to me,” Barbara said. “And what tells the story of my life.”

Barbara fell in love with her apartment, a one bedroom with a great room. After seeing another resident’s Independence model, she knew it was the right decision for her — and she didn’t wait. “I didn't want to move from a four-bedroom house to an apartment and then a couple of years later into a retirement community,” she said. “So I moved in relatively young, before 70.”

A Modern Take on Retirement Living

Barbara was drawn to Granite Farms Estates because of its contemporary feel. “I didn’t like the communities where you moved in and it felt like your grandmother’s house,” she laughed. “Granite Farms had a fresh, modern feel to it. That mattered to me.”

It’s that balance of comfort, modern, and smart design that makes the Independence model so appealing. At 804 square feet, Barbara’s apartment is thoughtfully laid out to enhance her living space.

“This floor plan is excellent at maximizing space,” she said. “And one of my main criteria for finding a place was being able to bring furniture that would maximize storage for me.”

Designed for Real Life

The open layout allowed Barbara to bring treasured pieces from her previous home — including her cherished dining room table. “The open concept gives me more flexibility,” she said.

Before moving in, Barbara strategically figured out how much space she’d need.

“I measured the rooms I used in my house — kitchen, family room, dining room, bedroom — and figured out how many square feet I actually needed. I came up with about 660. This apartment is 804. So I knew it would work, and it really does,” she said.

Despite downsizing, Barbara said she never feels cramped. “You get rid of all the extra stuff that you don’t need, and what you end up with is more than enough space to put all the things that matter.”

A Space for Living and Entertaining

The Independence model also supports Barbara’s love for hosting. “It’s amazing how much space there is here,” she said. “Everybody could move around. There’s plenty of room, and guests can also go out on the balcony when you’re having a party. A couple of people can sit out there — it just gives you a more spacious feel.”

Barbara’s balcony, on the fourth floor, overlooks a wildlife preserve, beautiful protected natural land within the Brandywine Conservancy. She enjoys relaxing outside and taking in the scenic view.

Her apartment is a perfect example of living intentionally — choosing a space that fits her lifestyle, reflects her personality, and also supports her future. Most importantly, Barbara enjoys access to a continuum of care, with assisted living and skilled nursing, if she should ever needs it. It’s all available in one location, a place she now proudly calls home, Granite Farms Estates.

“So many people say after the fact, ‘I wish I had done this sooner,’” Barbara said. “Many are reluctant to make this move, and often people wait until health issues force them. But I didn’t want that. I would much rather make a move like this while I’m still healthy and active.”

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