Darby House in Richmond, VA

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  • Interior

    A spacious conference room with an easel displaying a presentation, flanked by potted plants and elegant decor.
  • Outdoors

    A sign for Darby House in front of a brick wall with flowers planted below.
  • Living Room

    A cozy living room with bookshelves, a fireplace, and a television.
  • Building

    A brick building entrance with a covered walkway supported by pillars.
  • Architecture

    A brick apartment building with a parking lot and sidewalk.
  • Bedroom

    An empty bedroom featuring a double-door closet with beige carpeting.
  • Trees

    A backyard patio area with outdoor furniture, surrounded by a lawn and garden, featuring potted plants and a gazebo in the background.
  • Windows

    A well-lit conference room with tables arranged in a rectangular formation, surrounded by blue chairs and featuring vending machines along the wall.
  • Landscaping

    A well-maintained apartment building with landscaped entrance.
  • Kitchen

    An unfurnished apartment with a small kitchen area, white walls, and carpeted flooring.
  • Garden

    A view from inside a white gazebo with benches, overlooking a wooden deck leading to a house and garden area.
  • Bathroom

    An accessible bathroom with a sink, toilet, and handrails.
  • Cabinets

    A modern apartment interior featuring a kitchen with wooden cabinets and a white fridge, adjacent to a hallway.
  • Exercise Equipment

    A small gym with various exercise equipment, including a treadmill, stationary bike, and elliptical machine.

Darby House in Richmond, VA

1400 Shirleydale Avenue, Richmond, VA 23231

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.9 from 17 reviews
5 stars
8
4 stars
4
3 stars
2
2 stars
2
1 stars
1

Active Adult Communities (55+)

Darby House Costs & Pricing

Darby House offers remarkably competitive pricing for its accommodations, especially when compared to the broader market in Richmond city and across Virginia. For a one-bedroom unit, residents pay just $625 monthly, a significant contrast to Richmond's average of $3,668 and the state average of $4,257. Additionally, two-bedroom units at Darby House are priced at $730 per month, again highlighting a substantial discrepancy with Richmond's average of $3,533 and Virginia's average of $4,602. These costs reflect Darby House's commitment to providing affordable housing options without compromising on quality or comfort, making it an attractive choice for potential residents seeking budget-friendly living in an otherwise high-cost area.

Floor plansDarby HouseRichmond cityVirginia
1 Bedroom$625$3,668$4,257
2 Bedrooms$730$3,533$4,602

Overall Review of Darby House

Pros

  • pro The building is kept very clean.
  • pro Staff respond to messages and emails very quickly.
  • pro The maintenance staff is excellent.
  • pro Residents have an extra storage unit on the same floor.
  • pro The trash chute and laundry are on the same floor for convenience.
  • pro The place is nice and spacious.
  • pro It is well located.
  • pro The facility is clean and efficient.
  • pro The staff are efficient and polite.
  • pro The community offers a gym, a game room, WiFi, and a computer room.
  • pro Residents feel comfortable there.
  • pro The food is fresh and delicious.

Cons

  • pro The office manager is frequently unavailable and displays an unprofessional and unpleasant attitude.
  • pro The office staff ignored a phone call from a resident's mother, suggesting a lack of concern for residents' well-being.
  • pro This behavior shows that management believes simply having someone in the office is enough, at the expense of resident care.
  • pro There is a six-month to one-year waiting list, making it difficult to secure a place.
  • pro There is an accusation that James Bradford is a liar and committed identity theft.
  • pro The review urges the Darbyhouse owners to do better and prioritize the care and respect due to senior residents.

Review

Darby House is best suited for independent or semi-independent seniors who want a clean, well-located apartment-style option in Richmond that offers practical on-site amenities and straightforward maintenance. The building delivers on the basics: a tidy environment, convenient storage on the same floor, a trash chute and laundry facilities nearby, and reliable maintenance support when called. Residents can enjoy on-site perks such as a small gym, a game room, WiFi access, and a business room for computer use. Location and overall accessibility are strong selling points, making it appealing to those who value a practical, community-oriented setting with modest frills.

However, this community is not for everyone, and certain realities should drive the decision toward alternatives. The front-office experience can be inconsistent and at times difficult, with reports of an unavailable, unresponsive, or less-than-warm management presence. For families or residents who depend on consistently proactive administrative support or require urgent, clear escalation of issues, the front desk can feel like a bottleneck. Additionally, the move-in timeline is substantial: current residents note a six-month to one-year waitlist, which complicates planning for those needing to relocate within a shorter horizon. These factors mean this option works best for those with patience and a longer-term housing plan.

On the plus side, several concrete strengths offset the more troublesome management aspects. The property's cleanliness and upkeep are repeatedly praised, with staff responsiveness evident in replacement parts, scheduling, and general coordination. Maintenance personnel are described as reliable and personable, delivering timely fixes and a sense of hands-on care. The on-floor storage solution, proximity to in-building laundry and trash facilities, and the ease of access enhance daily living, reducing friction for residents managing mobility or equipment needs. The building's amenities - while not expansive - are functional and support an engaged lifestyle, contributing to social opportunities and a sense of community among residents.

Yet the main drawbacks tend to be higher-stakes for certain residents. The perception of inconsistent or sometimes curt office management raises questions about how urgent concerns would be handled in a real emergency. Although maintenance operates smoothly, the disconnect between residents and front-desk staff can undermine a sense of security and continuity. The experience of wait times for placement adds a layer of uncertainty, especially for families trying to coordinate a move around health changes or caregiver schedules. And while most reviews emphasize competence and friendliness elsewhere, a few entries suggest tensions or miscommunications that could color the overall impression of safety and trust.

When weighing the pros and cons, the positives here clearly tilt toward practicality and independence: a clean, well-located building with reliable maintenance, solid on-site amenities, and tangible conveniences that simplify daily routines. These strengths can offset the cons for residents who prize value, routine, and community engagement over a perfectly responsive front desk. However, the downward pressures - an inconsistent office experience and a lengthy wait for new residents - should not be underestimated. For someone who prioritizes immediate move-in capability, highly available front-desk support, or rigorous safety oversight, alternatives may offer a more reassuring fit.

In practical terms, this community fits best for those who can tolerate occasional lapses in administrative warmth and who plan ahead for a long transition. It makes sense for seniors who want a comfortable, affordable home base with dependable maintenance and useful amenities, coupled with the flexibility to adapt to a slower-moving administrative process. Families or individuals who require consistent, instantaneous escalation of issues or a shorter timeline to secure housing would be prudent to explore other options. Before deciding, prospective residents should tour with a list of critical questions: how response times are handled after hours, what procedures exist for urgent concerns, the current status of the waitlist, and whether current residents would be willing to speak candidly about day-to-day interactions with the front office.

Features

Housing

  • 1-bedroom apartments 1-bedroom apartments1-bedroom apartments are important for seniors because they provide a sense of independence, privacy, and autonomy while still offering the necessary space for comfortable living. These apartments allow seniors to maintain their own personal space and lifestyle preferences in a supportive community setting.
  • 2-bedroom apartments 2-bedroom apartments2-bedroom apartments are important for seniors because they provide extra space for guests, hobbies, and caregivers, as well as potential for additional income through roommates or rental.

Types of Care

  • Active Adult Communities (55+) Active Adult Communities (55+)Active Adult Communities provide seniors with opportunities for socialization, activities, and wellness programs tailored to their needs. These communities offer a sense of belonging and security while promoting an active and independent lifestyle for those aged 55 and older.

Pets

  • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
  • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

Amenities

  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • Beautician on-site Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
  • Full kitchen Full kitchenHaving a full kitchen in a senior living facility is important for seniors because it allows them to maintain their independence and prepare their own meals. This promotes healthy eating habits, saves money on dining out, and provides a sense of familiarity and comfort for residents.
  • Guest parking Guest parkingGuest parking is important for seniors because it allows their friends and family members to visit them easily and safely. Having convenient parking options can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, promote regular social interaction, and improve overall mental and emotional well-being for seniors in senior living communities.
  • Handicap accessible Handicap accessible"Handicap accessible" amenities are crucial for seniors to ensure they can easily navigate and access facilities, services, and activities without barriers or limitations due to physical impairments. This promotes independence, safety, and inclusivity for seniors in senior living communities.
  • Indoor common areas Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Outdoor common areas Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.

Transportation

  • Richmond International (4 miles away) Richmond International (4 miles away)

Activities

  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
  • Holiday parties Holiday partiesHoliday parties are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, community involvement, and mental stimulation. These festive events offer a sense of belonging and connection during a time that can be lonely for many older adults. Additionally, participating in holiday celebrations can boost mood and overall well-being for seniors living in senior living communities.

Description

The Darby House in Richmond, VA is an assisted living community offering comfortable 2-bedroom apartments for seniors. Our community aims to provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals who require assistance with daily activities.

Residents at Darby House can enjoy various amenities designed to enhance their quality of life. Our apartments are equipped with air-conditioning to ensure a comfortable living space regardless of the weather. For convenience, we have a beautician on-site, allowing residents to easily access hair and beauty services.

Each apartment features a full kitchen, enabling residents to prepare their own meals if desired. Additionally, guest parking is available for visitors. We prioritize accessibility and have made our community handicap accessible throughout.

Darby House boasts both indoor and outdoor common areas where residents can socialize and engage in activities or simply relax. Our fitness programs cater to those looking to stay active and maintain their physical well-being. We also organize festive holiday parties, fostering a sense of community spirit among our residents.

Conveniently located nearby are an array of amenities that enrich the surrounding area. There are seven cafes for residents to enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal with friends or family. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the seven parks in close proximity where they can take leisurely walks or picnics.

We understand the importance of healthcare accessibility and have ensured that there are ten pharmacies, eight physicians' offices, and eight hospitals conveniently located near our community. In addition, there are 27 restaurants nearby offering diverse dining options for residents and their guests.

Transportation options are abundant with five transportation services in close proximity, providing ease of travel around the area. For spiritual needs, there is one place of worship nearby where individuals can nurture their faith or participate in religious services. Furthermore, there is one theater nearby for entertainment purposes.

At Darby House, we strive to create an assisted living community that meets the needs and desires of our residents while providing them with access to numerous amenities and services in the surrounding area.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Richmond, Virginia, offers a mix of convenient amenities for seniors looking to settle in the area. With several medical centers, pharmacies, and hospitals within a few miles radius, residents can easily access healthcare services. The neighborhood also boasts a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, providing plenty of opportunities for socializing and enjoying good food. Additionally, there are several parks and places of worship nearby for leisure activities and spiritual fulfillment. Transportation options like Main Street Station and Richmond International Airport ensure easy accessibility for traveling or visiting loved ones. Overall, this area provides a well-rounded living environment with essential services and entertainment options for seniors to enjoy their retirement years comfortably.

Physicians

  • Dhakar Family Dentistry (0.5 miles)
  • Pediatric Center (2.3 miles)
  • Laburnum Medical Center (2.3 miles)
  • Wickersham Jodi Hume Lee Transplant Clinic Richmond (3.1 miles)
  • Clanton, Samuel Ambulatory Care Center (3.1 miles)
  • Bergen Nelson, MD, MS (3.2 miles)
  • MCV Children's Pavillion (3.2 miles)

Restaurants

  • Triple Crossing B (0.9 miles)
  • The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing (1.5 miles)
  • The Hill Café (2 miles)
  • Cobra Burger (2.1 miles)
  • The Roosevelt (2.3 miles)
  • Sub Rosa Bakery (2.3 miles)
  • Patrick Henry's Pub & Grille (2.3 miles)

Parks

  • Chimborazo Park (1.8 miles)
  • Libby Hill Park (2 miles)
  • Brown's Island (3.3 miles)
  • Monroe Park (4.2 miles)
  • Forest Hill Park (4.5 miles)
  • Lombardy Park Playground (4.7 miles)
  • Battery Park (4.8 miles)

Places of Worship

  • 31st Street Baptist Church (2 miles)
  • Seven Pines Baptist Church (5.2 miles)
  • Tikvat Israel Congregation (5.6 miles)
  • Remnant Church (5.6 miles)
  • Christadelphian Chapel (5.7 miles)

Cafes

  • Country Style Doughnuts (2.1 miles)
  • Riverbend Coffee (2.1 miles)
  • Union Market (2.4 miles)
  • Ironclad Coffee Roasters (2.6 miles)
  • Quench (3.4 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.5 miles)
  • The Smoky Mug (4.9 miles)

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (2.2 miles)
  • McGuire Park Pharmacy (2.4 miles)
  • Rite Aid (3.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.8 miles)
  • Rite Aid (4.2 miles)
  • Paragon Pharmacy (4.2 miles)
  • Springer Pharmacy (4.4 miles)

Hospitals

  • Bon Secours Richmond Community Hospital (2.4 miles)
  • VCU Critical Care Hospital (3.1 miles)
  • Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU (3.2 miles)
  • Vcu Health System Authority (3.3 miles)
  • Hospital Hospitality House (3.4 miles)
  • Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center (4.2 miles)
  • VCU Medical Center Emergency Department (4.5 miles)

Transportation

  • Main Street Station (2.8 miles)
  • TSA Checkpoint Concourse B - Richmond International Airport (3.2 miles)
  • Richmond International Airport (RIC) (3.3 miles)
  • Concourse B (3.3 miles)
  • GRTC Pulse - Convention Center (3.6 miles)

Theaters

  • Henrico Theatre (4.4 miles)
  • Bow Tie Movieland at Boulevard Square (5.8 miles)

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