Maximizing Space at Every Size

As the planning and moving consultant at Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md., it is my job to help incoming residents create the home of their dreams.

Regardless of which floor plan you choose, whether a spacious two-bedroom design to entertain guests or an airy one-bedroom layout to suit your active lifestyle, it's easy to personalize your new home and maximize space. 

Getting started

The first step in designing your new home is to arrange a complimentary home visit so we can discuss how you use your current living space. Together, we walk room to room, going over daily routines and identifying which rooms you use the most and which ones see little activity.

I find that this is a very natural way to think about what you need moving forward, and it helps me understand how you truly live. With this information, I can offer suggestions on floor plans, if you haven't chosen one already. 

We'll also chat about which pieces of furniture you'd like to bring so we can begin determining a layout that will best meet your needs. And, if you get stuck deciding whether to take this or that, I can act as a sounding board!

Form and function

Once you've selected a floor plan and determined what furniture is coming with you, we can work together to customize your new home. Erickson Senior Living communities offer a wide range of customization options, which can even be completed before you move in, to create additional storage space.

Custom closets are very popular. A current resident I once worked with is an artist; we came up with a plan to have a custom closet with built-ins and drawers installed to hold all her art materials. It even has a place for her to store and dry her canvases!

Our communities offer creative solutions tailored to a range of interests and tastes. For instance, someone with an extensive book collection may benefit from built-in bookcases. If you have a prized collection, I recommend attractive shelving that showcases those items in an organized, cohesive manner.

Versatile solutions

Or, if you have a second bedroom you want to use as both a guest room and an office, I may recommend furniture items that can be easily arranged to suit both purposes. Murphy® Beds are a great option. 

By putting a lot of thought into the flow and use of your new living spaces, you can create a home that truly reflects who you are and your goals for retirement. 

When every item has an intentional place, whether neatly stored in a custom closet or displayed on decorative shelving, your home will feel more comfortable. And there's nothing like coming home to an inviting, personalized space at the end of a busy day!

More outside your door

Once those design decisions are made, our preferred vendors--vetted for quality and experience--will provide all the services needed to make your dream home come to life. And the best part is that the entire process will be managed for you, so you can focus on preparing for your move and the vibrant lifestyle that awaits you. 

Even though incoming residents are always excited about their new living spaces, they often see their residence as just part of their new home. After all, there are so many amenities and activities, like fitness centers, restaurants, art classes, and walking groups, to enjoy out in the community.

With thoughtful planning, intentional organization, and the support of a vibrant community, residents find that their well-designed homes provide everything they need to live fully and comfortably.

Find an Erickson Senior Living community near you to learn more about the planning and moving resources available.