Perched atop a grassy knoll, Friends Home in Kennett could easily be mistaken for a bed and breakfast. The lush front lawn is home to majestic shade trees. A beautiful wraparound porch encloses the eye-catching red brick building with an attached two-story wood and brick sunroom. The white-columned porch is a favorite spot for residents to socialize. At least thirty high-back rocking chairs line the deck, and colorful flowers tucked into festive baskets hang about every five feet. Originally the Eaton School for Boys, the building was purchased by a local Quaker group near the turn of the century and converted to senior housing. Located on the main street of historic Kennett Square, Friends Home boasts an interior with historic integrity intact. Natural wood cornices, high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows give it a charming, old-fashioned grandeur. Delicate lace curtains and common rooms filled with furnishings new and old includes comfortable sofas and loveseats, and lovely antiques like dressers, tables and Tiffany lamps. Recent renovations produced new carpet and fresh paint and wallpaper.
Even the interior mimics a bed and breakfast in that there are several common rooms for socializing. A small formal parlor is awash in cranberry tones as is the larger living room on the second floor. Curved, single-pane windows flood the living room with natural light. Artwork lining the hallways is unsurpassed—the eclectic mix includes antique oil paintings, pastels, watercolors, quilts and sketches—many of which were created by residents. Each floor has its own sunroom. The facility also boasts a library, craft and billiards room and an activity center with a big-screen TV, piano and tables set up for chess, puzzles and card games. A large health center has an exam room and exercise equipment. The elegant dining room is done in muted green and coordinating floral valances with lace curtains. Lnens and fresh flower arrangements dress the tables. That day’s lunch smelled delicious, and consisted of fresh orange and grapefruit salad, lamb stew or baked chicken, spinach, carrots, rice and homemade biscuits.
Resident rooms come in different shapes and sizes, adding to the charm of Friends Home. Some have angled ceilings and cutouts, while all have numerous windows, modern bathrooms and new carpet. We spoke to a female resident who had recently moved here, and she mentioned how much she loves the building’s charm and proximity to downtown. “The staff and people here are caring and committed to each other,” she said. Residents are very involved in deciding which activities they prefer, and take advantage of the many nearby cultural and artistic opportunities. In fact, residents have formed a rhythm band and choir that performs outside the community! Other activities include men’s and women’s nights, exercise, manicures and arts and crafts as well as special events like barbecues and grandparent’s day. This active community is supported by a staff who knows their residents quite intimately. One staff member told us that they are committed to maintaining a resident’s level of independence for as long as possible.
