Elegant, upscale senior living at affordable prices seems contradictory but in fact is a reality. The Merion in Evanston is a luxury independent senior living rental community. Formerly the North Shore Retirement Hotel, The Merion has been exquisitely transformed with new infrastructure and finishes. As a rental community, there is no purchase required.
Leigh and Betty Rosenblum moved to The Merion earlier this year. “We knew that we wanted to move to a retirement community and looked at different options but liked the advantages we saw at The Merion,” said Leigh, a retired physician from Northbrook.
The Merion is located in the heart of downtown Evanston, a location that the Rosenblums love. In a bustling neighborhood close to the Lake, with great dining and shopping venues and wonderful entertainment and recreational opportunities just steps away, the location offers every type of amenity that independent and active seniors enjoy. “We really like the intellectual aspect of the opportunities afforded here. The proximity to Northwestern University and its programs was an important factor to us while choosing The Merion,” said Leigh.
The Rosenblums particularly like the fact that they rent their two-bedroom apartment at The Merion, making their retirement living more affordable. “A lot of other retirement communities have large entrance fees. Even though they’re partially refundable, it’s still a lot of money upfront and there may be a long wait to get the money back,” said Leigh, who added that it was important to him to be able to stay liquid.
While residents have the option of moving into a fully furnished apartment, the Rosenblums decided instead to bring much of their own furniture with them. “We feel more at home with our own items,” said Betty.
“The food here is great,” said Leigh, who with Betty frequently entertains guests at The Merion. On-site dining venues include the JEM Dining Room, the Crystal Lounge and the Bistro. Residents are also able to request in-room dining.
“The people who work here are very cooperative. They’re helpful and accommodating. I have nothing but positive things to say about the staff,” said Leigh. “Our kids are very happy that we made the move here.”
With the many amenities offered at The Merion, prospective residents are always pleasantly surprised at its affordability. “When they start calculating the expenses that they’d save by living here: maintenance, repair, housekeeping, real-estate taxes, lawn care, insurance, etc., they quickly figure out that living here is really a great value,” said Margaret Gergen, director of resident services of The Merion.
The Merion is a luxury senior apartment community for active, independent retirees seeking a hassle-free rental home in Evanston. Formerly known as The North Shore Hotel, The Merion has been totally renovated with upscale finishes and amenities. For additional information, visit www.MerionEvanston.com.
As seen in Evanston Patch.
