The idea that an adult living complex has to be a big, multi-level apartment building is being turned on its ear.
The new Spinney at Van Dyke offers empty nesters the chance to downsize their lifestyles without having to be grouped together inside a large building. Each of the rental units at The Spinney are cottage-style homes ranging in size from 760 to 1,675 square feet and include private driveways, a front porch and rear patio, cathedral ceilings, modern kitchens, a washer and dryer, and in many cases garages.
Samantha Feinberg said the homes are designed to look unique from the outside.
“Even driving down the streets of our community, it doesn’t look like an apartment complex,” said Feinberg. “Most of them offer single-floor living … and every cottage is unique.”
The complex located off Van Dyke Road in Bethlehem officially opened in October 2014 with the completion of Phase 1, which included 44 units. Phase 2 construction will include approximately 60 units, as well as a community welcoming center featuring a swimming pool, tennis courts and a room for birthday parties, seasonal celebrations and more. Feinberg said they are also hoping to open the walking trails and a gazebo this year.
Feinberg said there is already a growing sense of community among the first group of residents who moved into The Spinney.
“They all go to activities together. They all genuinely care about each other and are looking out for each other,” said Feinberg. “What makes it is the community, not just the cottages.”
The cottages offer residents the type of privacy other adult living centers cannot provide, said Feinberg.
“Even though they are built grouped together, you’ll never have someone living above or below you because they are single-floor living spaces,” said Feinberg.
Feinberg said the cottages are built to order, and special needs such as handrails in the bathroom and light-emitting doorbells for the deaf can always be added.
“We’re always shifting with our residents’ needs, which is part of our business,” said Feinberg. “So, we’re happy to do that for them.”
And for residents who want them, The Spinney allows pets.
“I think that’s a huge draw,” said Feinberg. “Someone might have recently become a widow, and they’re looking for some companionship from a pet.”
There are rental prices for virtually every budget. The most popular units are the 760 square foot-sized cottages renting for $899 a month, but there is a waiting list. Larger units rent for between $1,625 and $2,140 a month.
For more information, call The Spinney at Van Dyke at 689-0162 or visit thespinneyatvandyke.com.