More time for living

Mary Malik • January 13, 2026

The Cottages at Ohman Family Living at Briar provide modern, right-sized homes that blend comfort, meaningful social connection and maintenance-free living.

The Cottages are made up of 40 independent units in a triplex format that operate as freestanding homes. (Photography: Francis Angelone)


Whatever term you prefer, “downsizing,” “rightsizing,” or “aging in place,” this often uncertain stage of life can mean different things for different people. The goal, though, is often the same: Living independently for as long as possible, while enhancing your quality of life by removing the stress of caring for a home. 


Ohman Family Living at Briar offers all of that and more at The Cottages in Middlefield. The Cottages offer brand-new, one-level, just-the-right-amount-of-space homes situated in natural, serene surroundings, yet walkable to necessities and amenities. Add the social connections with neighbors who become friends and The Cottages could be just the right place when you’re ready to “right size.”


Ohman Family Living is a family business rooted in compassion, founded in 1965 when one family answered the call to care for a brother with multiple sclerosis. Today, with communities in Middlefield and Newbury, Ohman Family Living remains family owned and operated, guided by the mission that “we are called to serve those entrusted to us,” by providing every level of care for the aging community.


“We opened The Cottages to add independent living to our continuum of care at Ohman Family Living at Briar,” Administrator Christian Ohman says. “The Cottages are made up of 40 independent units in a triplex format that operate as freestanding homes.”


Every two-bedroom unit is completely accessible; step-free from the front entrance, throughout the home and accessing the attached 1.5-car garage and outdoor spaces.


“This is a home, not an apartment,” Christian says. “Each unit includes a large en suite bathroom with curbless entry shower, walk-in pantry, plenty of closet space, laundry room, extra-wide doorways and high ceilings. We also offer furnished units if you really want to make a fresh start.” 


The Cottages provides a safe environment where people don’t feel isolated yet maintain their private spaces. The community support allows residents to live worry-free with access to help if needed. 


“We’ve created a living style that allows residents to stay independent longer,” Christian says. “The Cottages are a community within itself of people 55 and over, from 50s to 90s, who are thriving here.”


The Cottages aren’t low-maintenance; they’re no-maintenance. Monthly rent covers all utilities including gas, internet, security, trash and snow removal, landscaping, even housecleaning twice each month.


As part of the Ohman Family Living community, home health services including nurses and physical therapists can also be provided to residents. 


The Cottages even offer access to lunch and dinner for a small fee for those days when you’re too busy to cook. 


There’s also a full calendar of events available for residents of The Cottages that includes trips to The Cleveland Museum of Art, The West Side Market, Zoo Lights, shows, shopping and so much more in and around Cleveland. And right here at home, the staff hosts a variety of events, including cooking demonstrations, happy hours and other activities. 


Bordering the Geauga Park District, The Cottages are surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor amenities like hiking and biking trails. 



“This is an active community where some residents are even still working but want a simpler lifestyle free of the worry and hassle of home ownership,” Christian says. “We’re offering turnkey living at its best. There’s peace of mind in knowing the days of maintaining a home are over. It’s time to focus on cultivating an independent, full and active life at The Cottages.”


The Cottages at Ohman Family Living at Briar

14820 N. State Ave., Middlefield

440-261-4808

OhmanFamilyLiving.com/Cottages

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    Ohman Family Living is a family business that started in 1965. Pictured L-R: Anderson Ohman Jr., Anderson Ohman Sr. and Christian Ohman.

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  • Slide title

    Each spacious cottage includes a walk-in pantry,  large en suite bathroom, laundry room and more. 

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  • Slide title

    Monthly rent covers all utilities including gas, internet, security, trash and snow removal, landscaping, even housecleaning twice each month.

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Tour The Cottages


To take a tour of and learn more about The Cottages, contact Kristin Wallace at 440-261-4808.

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