For more than 20 years, Elaine Foster has lived in Jacksonville’s Avondale neighborhood. With its distinctive mix of history, culture, character and community, she has loved living in her home and being a member of a community that exemplifies gracious urban living.

Last year, Foster decided the time had arrived to downsize from her home. She wanted a place where she would be relieved of many of the responsibilities that come with home ownership. She also wanted to remain in her beloved Riverside Avondale neighborhood. She found what she wanted, and more, at The John Gorrie a condominium.

“When I began my search to find a place to live, not much appealed to me until I discovered The John Gorrie,” Foster said. “I was thrilled and I loved the condominium immediately. The building showcases its historical elements, which I love so much, yet it has all of the modern conveniences.”

Designed by distinguished Jacksonville architects Benjamin and Greeley, The John Gorrie a condominium reflects Mediterranean Revival architecture popular in the early 1920s. Inside, the residences feature 12-foot ceilings and expansive windows and are equipped with new appliances, CaesarStone countertops and hardwood floors.

Foster and her dog, Sparky, a Welsh Corgi, moved into The John Gorrie last October. She purchased a two-bedroom residence and has designed the second bedroom as a den. Many of the residences include elements from its former use as a school, such as the exposed brick wall in Foster’s home.

Foster is equally enthusiastic about the condominium’s community amenities including the onsite fitness facility and beautiful courtyard area. She is an active member of the Riverside Avondale neighborhood and enjoys spending time at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, attending performances at the Church of the Good Shepard, meeting friends for coffee at Bold Bean Coffee Roasters and dining out at one of the many great restaurants in the area.

“This neighborhood has so much to do – that’s why I did not want to move away from it,” Foster said.

The John Gorrie offers studios, one- and two-bedroom residences and two-story townhomes. All residences offer contemporary amenities such as stainless steel GE appliances, gourmet kitchens and pedestal bathroom sinks. In addition to a custom fitness center and a private courtyard, residents have access to elevators, private gated parking and a resident reading room with Wi-Fi Internet access.

Along with being within walking distance of neighborhood shops, restaurants and offices, residents are also in close proximity to the St. Johns River and a variety of beautiful parks.

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