When Palm Coast residents Nancy and Don Wyatt began looking for a second home in Jacksonville, they had several criteria: first, they needed to be close to children and grandchildren who lived here, and second, they wanted a low-maintenance, architecturally beautiful residence. Also, because he is a pilot and travels, Don wanted a safe, friendly community for Nancy while he was away. The John Gorrie a condominium fit the bill perfectly – and had an interesting history to boot, something that greatly appealed to the couple.

“We looked at many different places in San Marco, Ortega, Riverside-Avondale, and other areas,” Don Wyatt said. “A number of them required extensive renovation, which would have cost time and money. The John Gorrie was the perfect combination of price, amenities and architecture.”

The couple chose a two-bedroom, two-bathroom corner residence, particularly appealing as a corner unit because of the light coming in the huge windows from several sides. Some of their favorite features are the original oak flooring and exposed brick walls.

“Our place is quiet and peaceful,” said Wyatt. “Because we are on the second floor, every room has a great view.”

Designed by distinguished Jacksonville architects Benjamin and Greeley, The John Gorrie a condominium reflects Mediterranean Revival architecture popular in the early 1920s.

Every condominium in The John Gorrie is unique, and residents enjoy the story behind each home, which reflects its use during the buildings’ tenure as John Gorrie Junior High School. The school, which sat vacant for many years, was purchased in 2009 by J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver and transformed into 68 historical residences with contemporary amenities. The Wyatt’s condominium used to be several classrooms, which were connected together during the renovation.

Some of the fun “school” touches returned to the building hallways as art and antiques include chalkboards, radiators and a teacher’s mail cubby that includes the names of former teachers and the classes they taught.

“The John Gorrie has a really neat history that is appealing to so many people,” said Wyatt. “As far as residents go, there is a very nice mix of young families, retirees and in between. The larger community is wonderful, too – with a lot to do nearby and easy access to downtown.”

The John Gorrie is within walking distance of shops, restaurants and parks and is only a short drive from downtown Jacksonville. For the Wyatts, it is the perfect place to enjoy family time in the city and entertain children and grandchildren.

“For the amount of room you get and for the price you pay,” said Wyatt,” this is an amazing deal.”

The John Gorrie offers studios, one- and two-bedroom residences and two-story townhomes. Amenities include a custom fitness center, a private courtyard, elevators, private gated parking and a resident reading room with Wi-Fi Internet access.

For more information about how you can be part of The John Gorrie community, call (904) 383-3688 or visit www.TheJohnGorrie.com.