Building a custom home is an exciting opportunity to create a living space tailored to your current needs and lifestyle. However, it’s also important to think about how those needs may evolve over time, especially if you plan to stay in your home for many years or want to up its resale value. Designing your home with aging in place in mind ensures that it remains comfortable, safe, and accessible as you grow older. At Cut Above Construction & Design, we believe in building homes that stand the test of time—homes that are not only beautiful and functional today but also prepared for the future. Here are five essential considerations to keep in mind when building a custom home to make aging in place easier 10-20 years down the line.
1. Single-Level Living
One of the most impactful design decisions you can make when building a custom home with aging in place in mind is to opt for single-level living. By placing all essential living spaces—such as the primary bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room—on the same floor, you eliminate the need to navigate stairs daily. As we age, stairs can become more challenging and pose a safety risk. A single-level layout not only enhances accessibility but also makes daily life more convenient, reducing the physical strain associated with climbing stairs.
If a single-story design isn’t feasible, consider including an elevator or planning for the future installation of one by designing a space that can easily accommodate it. This ensures that your home remains accessible as your mobility needs change over time.
2. Wide Doorways and Hallways
Ensuring that your home’s doorways and hallways are wide enough to accommodate mobility aids like walkers and wheelchairs is a crucial consideration for aging in place. A minimum width of 36 inches is recommended for doorways and hallways, allowing for easy movement throughout the home.
Wider passageways not only facilitate mobility but also contribute to a more open, airy feel in the home, enhancing both accessibility and aesthetics. By incorporating this feature during the design phase, you future-proof your home, making it more adaptable to your needs as they evolve.
3. Curbless Showers and Grab Bar Blocking
The bathroom is a key area to focus on when planning for aging in place, as it can present significant safety challenges. Installing curbless (zero-threshold) showers is a smart way to reduce the risk of tripping and falling, as they are easy to step into and out of without the need to navigate a raised edge.
Additionally, consider adding extra blocking behind the walls to support the future installation of grab bars around the shower, bathtub, and toilet areas. Grab bars provide stability and support, significantly reducing the risk of falls. By planning for these features during the construction process, you ensure that your bathroom remains safe and accessible as your needs change.
4. Lever-Style Door Handles and Faucets
Small details can make a big difference when it comes to accessibility and ease of use. If you’re investing in higher-end door hardware, opt for lever-style handles. Unlike traditional knobs, which can be difficult to turn for those with arthritis or limited hand strength, lever handles are much easier to operate. They require minimal effort to open doors or turn on faucets, making daily tasks more manageable.
Lever-style handles also add a modern, sleek look to your home, blending functionality with style. By choosing these user-friendly options, you ensure that your home remains comfortable and accessible as you age.
5. Non-Slip Flooring
Flooring choices play a crucial role in ensuring safety, particularly in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways, where slips and falls are more likely to occur. When building your custom home, opt for non-slip flooring materials to minimize the risk of accidents.
Textured tile is an excellent option that provides traction without compromising on aesthetics. It will serve you now with your kids and later when you’re 20+ years older than you are now! Additionally, consider using consistent flooring throughout the home to reduce tripping hazards and create a seamless transition between rooms.
Aging in Place Contractor in Pueblo, CO
Planning for aging in place when building your custom home is a wise decision that ensures your home remains comfortable, accessible, and safe for years to come. By incorporating features like single-level living, wide doorways, curbless showers, lever-style handles, and non-slip flooring, you create a living space that adapts to your needs as they change over time. At Cut Above Construction & Design, we’re both custom home specialists and aging-in-place specialists, and we’re here to help you design and build a home that’s not only perfect for today but also ready for whatever the future holds. Contact us today to start planning your forever home, designed with your long-term comfort and safety in mind.