One-Bedroom Homes Offer Ample Space and Access to Amenities

Tallgrass Creek, an Erickson Senior Living community in Overland Park, Kans., offers an array of floor plans to meet a variety of preferences and budgets.

Some are drawn to two-bedroom floor plans, perfect for creating a designated office or craft space. For others, a one-bedroom home provides the best of both worlds--a comfortable living space and convenient access to amenities.

Vibrant lifestyle

That was the case for Jim Gerlt and Lynda Andrews, who have been making the most of everything Tallgrass Creek has to offer since moving into their one-bedroom homes.

"There are so many common areas--game rooms, exercise rooms, gardens, and restaurants," Lynda says. "The whole community is an extension of your living space."

Jim agrees, saying, "It's like being on a cruise ship on land. There's always something happening if you want to be involved, and when you want quiet time, your home is the perfect retreat."

An open layout

Lynda looked at quite a few floor plans before deciding on the Newbury--specifically, a Newbury with a wall taken out to create an open living space.

"The living space is not divided up. That's the most important thing to me," she says. "It has an open floor plan, similar to the house I loved in Lake St. Louis, Mo. The layout, the big kitchen with a bar, the bay window--it felt right."

Excited to embrace a fresh start in her new living space, Lynda started downsizing and finding homes for unwanted items. "I realized that if I couldn't fit it in my new home, I didn't need it!" she notes.

After living in her new home for almost a year, Lynda notes that the Newbury provides the perfect amount of space for her--and her guests. "I love to entertain, and I have plenty of room for that," she says.

She also loves the abundance of natural light, contemporary design with gray-toned flooring, and ample room for her large marble dining table, glass shelving unit, art, and houseplants.

"I have a split-leaf rhododendron, jade plants, and violets. My bay window is perfect for them," she says.

Ample space

Jim was also drawn to Tallgrass Creek's one-bedroom floor plans. But after living in a 3,800-square-foot house, he wasn't sure he would have enough space.

"When I first saw the floor plan, I liked the high ceilings, the screened-in porch, and the kitchen cabinetry. The wood cabinets and big windows made a difference to me," he recalls. "But I thought it might not be enough space."

However, after settling into his new home, he finds that "It absolutely is! You find that you don't need as much as you thought."

A full schedule of fun

Now, Jim spends more time out and about in the community than he does at home, as Tallgrass Creek's walking paths, fitness centers, and clubhouses provide countless opportunities for connection and engagement.

Jim starts his day with pickleball at 7:30 a.m. four times a week, followed by a fitness class. He's also involved in the woodshop, garden club, and dining committee.

"I've become very active and socially connected," he says. "It's hard to put a value on that kind of lifestyle. It's truly a good feeling. The amenities here--fitness, dining, social opportunities--are a value you can't buy."

Worry-free living

Both Lynda and Jim emphasize the peace of mind that comes with Tallgrass Creek's worry-free lifestyle, thanks to the monthly service package.

The monthly service package bundles the costs of most living expenses, including utilities and maintenance, into one predictable bill.

"It's wonderful not having to worry about separate bills," says Lynda. "Everything is included."

Without the responsibility of home upkeep and maintenance, Lynda and Jim also find that they have more free time to pursue their interests.

As Lynda puts it, "There's always something fun to look forward to. I'm even in a talent show with a group of women. We're doing a pom pom routine to a Taylor Swift song!"

Simplify your life

If you're considering a move to Tallgrass Creek, Lynda and Jim advise choosing a floor plan that will match the lifestyle you want to experience in retirement.

"Do a cost-benefit analysis," Lynda suggests. "If you won't use the second bedroom regularly, why pay for it?"

Jim adds, "And don't underestimate how freeing it is to simplify. You don't realize how little you really need to feel content."

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

By Julia Collins