Devonshire Couple Shares What They Love Most About Their New Home

Although Gene and Linda Kopf loved their oceanfront condo on Jupiter Island, Fla., they knew it was time to start researching their senior living options. 

"As nice as our condo was, our children told us that we needed to start thinking about living in a community that would support us, should something happen," says Gene. "We gave it some thought and decided they were right."

Conducting their due diligence, the Kopfs explored 12 different retirement communities in the Jupiter and Palm Beach Gardens areas.

"None of the communities came close to Devonshire," says Gene of the Erickson Senior Living community at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. "From the moment we stepped on campus, we recognized that this place is top notch--from the friendly residents and the five restaurants to all the activities and entertainment." 

Home sweet home

With the decision to move to Devonshire made, the couple turned their attention to selecting a residence. 

"We knew we wanted one of the larger homes, so we favored the Dalton," says Gene. The Dalton--a large two-bedroom, two-bath floor plan--boasts a spacious living area, terrace, den, laundry room, and walk-in closets. 

"What was nice about the home we selected is that Devonshire was in the process of fully renovating the space," Gene explains. 

Working with Laurie Lovely, Devonshire's custom interiors coordinator and planning and moving consultant, Gene and Linda helped make several renovation decisions, including the paint colors, granite for their countertops, and flooring.

A smooth move

"We also worked closely with Laurie to determine what we would bring with us from our condo," says Gene. "Together, we determined where our art, pottery, and furniture would go. She then put together a design plan that helped us see how it would all come together."

"Laurie was great with all the details, understanding what was important to us," says Linda. "For instance, Gene was a fisherman in Jupiter for 25 years. He's collected a dozen hand-carved, wooden Florida fish. I was convinced there was no way they could all come with us, but Laurie she said she would figure out a way to make it work." 

She adds, "Now, all those fish are here with us at Devonshire!"

The Kopfs also had support on move-in day, thanks to Devonshire's preferred moving company.

"They were fantastic," says Gene. "When they came to our condo, they took photos of our furniture and art. That way, when the time came to move, they were able to bring everything into our new home and place it where it was meant to go. They also hung all our paintings on the wall." 

Lots to love

Since moving to Devonshire last February, the couple has grown to love their Dalton residence even more.

Linda, an avid baker, enjoys the space in their large kitchen, equipped with modern appliances.

"Even though we enjoy eating our dinners at Devonshire restaurants, I love to cook and bake," she explains. "Our kitchen is perfect--with more than enough room for all my baking supplies."

Gene appreciates the flexibility of living in a residence with two bedrooms. 

"We chose to use the second bedroom as our TV and library room. We added a couch that pulls out to a full-size bed," he says. "And the closets in both bedrooms are huge. I also appreciate the separate den that I use as my office. There is more than enough room for my desk and computer."

The couple's favorite spot in their new home is the terrace, extending off their main living area.

"The terrace is lovely. We put a table for six out there, and it's the perfect spot for enjoying breakfast in the morning or cocktails in the evening," says Linda. 

More outside their door

Gene and Linda are also enjoying the many activities and social opportunities right outside their front door. 

Together, they belong to the book club, join new friends for dinner, visit the fitness center, attend a variety of campus musical performances, and take courses through Florida Atlantic University (FAU). 

Excited to celebrate their first anniversary at Devonshire, Gene and Linda are looking back on the past year with gratitude. 

"Our children started us on this path, and we are so grateful," says Linda. "It gives them both great peace of mind, knowing that not only are we well taken care of, but we are very, very happy here."

Invest in your future self at Devonshire. From top-notch amenities to maintenance-free homes, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!