How Much Square Footage Do I Need in a Senior Apartment?
Today’s independent living apartments offer so much to love and more choices than ever before. Take Crestwood Manor for example. Not only do you have a choice of square footage, but you also have the option to choose the style you prefer, from contemporary to transitional to traditional when it comes to colors, surfaces, and more.
Choice is important to older adults, especially those making the move from a larger home to a senior apartment. Of course, the challenge is knowing how much square footage you need in a residence. So we’ve pulled together 10 considerations to help you make a smart decision and show you the way to a senior apartment that really does feel like home.
Don’t Make a Move Without Considering These 10 Questions
You want the best of everything in your new senior apartment, of course. At the same time, extra space means more to clean, more to furnish––and a higher cost. For a more realistic idea of how many square feet you really need in a senior apartment, take the time to answer these 10 questions:
Where do you spend most of your time in your current home? Are you mostly in the den and bedroom? Do you like to entertain guests in a separate living room? If you spend very little time in your living room or rarely entertain, a smaller dining area may work just fine for your lifestyle. Same with a smaller den.
What is your preference for bed size? If keeping your king bed is important to you, of course it will impact your decision on a floor plan. The good news is, keeping it might give you a good excuse for a bedroom set refresh. Today’s modern pieces tend to be less heavy and bulky in appearance and inches.
How often do you travel and how long are you typically away? If your apartment will be used primarily as a place to rest your head and grab a meal between extended trips, a one-bedroom place might suit your lifestyle just dandy. Another big plus? You’ll save on monthly expenses.
How important are extra bathrooms and/or a tub? In the excitement of the search, people often forget to check the bathroom setup. It’s nice to have two full bathrooms if there will be two of you occupying the apartment or you often have guests. Are you a fill the tub and chill kind of person? Confirm that’s an option in at least one of your two bathrooms.
In a typical month, how often do you cook for friends/family? If you don’t often cook for large gatherings, you’ll be comfortable with a smaller kitchen (and save on rent). If you still want to be prepared for family dinners, consider drop-leaf and gated tables, or dining sets with chairs that tuck in and under to save space. Check retailers that cater to apartment dwellers, but also search online for “space-saving dining furniture” to see more!
Does your lifestyle require a separate office or den? Many seniors still do some type of work or simply want a separate den. In that case, a two-room apartment is for you. Add a convertible couch and keep your work area compact. Store supplies inside a nice credenza that also serves as a TV stand when guests visit.
How often do you have overnight guests? Some seniors probably need to install a revolving door to welcome the flow of guests. The good news is, many senior communities offer apartments and suites for visiting families. It relieves you of the need to pay for a two-bedroom apartment with an extra room that rarely gets used!
Are you a collector who likes to display your items? Aim high with floating shelves that give you display space, but don’t eat up valuable real estate in your apartment.
What’s your home workout routine? In a senior living community like Crestwood Manor, you’ll have access to well-appointed workout facilities. You can ditch space-hogging home gyms and still have plenty of great ways to stay in shape.
If you have pets, do you need extra space for supplies, cages, crates, or litter boxes? Take those space needs into consideration as you decide which size apartment would be the best fit for you and your furry or feathered friends!
This Is Where You Can Live Your Best Life
Crestwood Manor is an excellent choice in retirement living for so many reasons. From our easy maintenance-free lifestyle to our outstanding services and amenities, this senior community really does offer everything you want for a great life. And that includes a choice of bright, well-appointed apartment options. Browse our attractive floor plans and get ready to call this community your new home! When you’re ready for a tour, give us a call.
